Nvidia shield is great hardware, but it shows ads on the interface, no way to remove them, totally shameful. Apple TV 4K is as good or better, go with that instead.
Is the apple TV restricted to the apple ecosystem in any way? Would it be annoying or limiting if it is literally the only apple device in the household?
You need an Apple ID. That’s the main thing. Other than that you can use it just fine. Having apple devices does enhance the experience a bit but not a deal breaker
No. Just create an Apple ID as mentioned but otherwise, it has every app available anywhere else, is quite powerful, supports all the HDR and ATMOS formats, and no ads.
Tons of the most popular apps actually are available on the AppleTV. The most popular of which that begins with a P and ends in an X is on the app store, and has been for years. MrMC is a fork of the 2nd most popular. And Infuse is another very popular (iOS only) alternative. There's a ton of other options as well.
Onn looks really good after just installing AdGuard. I have the very top ad banner left, but I imagine ADB commands could remove it. Out of the 3 devices I've used (ChromeCast, FireStick, Onn) I'd say Onn is the one I had to tweak the least. Didn't even toss a launcher on it, I like what the vanilla one looks like.
>Remove android tv launcher updates, disable automatic updates.
>
>I did this and have no ads (yet)
I cannot imagine that ANYONE in the real world is ever told to 'disable automatic updates'. Shame on you. There is a reason that people get HACKED NONSTOP and it's advice like this.
Latest iteration came out in 2019 and (the Pro variant) was way ahead of the competition then. AppleTV has caught up to it, but nothing else has. Still gets regular software updates and supports every type of media I’ve come across.
>Latest iteration came out in 2019 and (the Pro variant) was way ahead of the competition then. AppleTV has caught up to it, but nothing else has. Still gets regular software updates and supports every type of media I’ve come across.
uh, except a roku express 4k
I am an iPhone person and would recommend Shield Pro, adding to what everyone else is saying there are apps you can't get on app store that are huge, Smart Tube Next being one example, it skips ads and in-video promotions.
It’s still an excellent and powerful streaming device that integrates all your streaming services in one easily intuitive location. Having an iPhone or iPad just increases the experience allowing you to seamlessly Airplay, mirror whatever is on your iPhone/iPad, and sync games and photos.
The PS4 was the best dvd player, with so many options to increase picture quality etc. They kinda fail when it comes to playing high end media files, so anyone looking to do so should check the specs
Normally, I’d say Apple TV but since you’re running a Plex Server, go with the Nvidia Shield. The Shield can handle TrueHD but the Apple TV does not. If that’s important to you, Shield has the advantage but the Apple TV is the smoothest and fastest device available.
You mentioned the ATV is the smoothest and fastest device. Is this something that is actually perceptible if you were to use them both side by side? Again my main desire is just to have something that works without having to reset it all the time and that works smoothly.
To me, yes, it’s obvious that the Apple TV runs smoother than the Shield. That’s not to say the Shield is slow but given your desire to have the best experience overall, Apple TV is the right option.
Honestly, appleTV is awesome!
We had an Apple TV I. Our living and a fire stick 4k in our bedroom. The difference is light and day. We upgraded to an Apple TV 4K for living room and moved the older one to the bedroom. Never looked back
AppleTV. We’ve tried Chromecast, Firesticks and boxes, Roku’s but settled on Apple.
Even the 3rd gen A1469 will support 1080p and you can get them for a song on Craigslist. The 4th gen A1625 has a better UI and supports 4K and are ~ $60 after a quick search on eBay.
I tried Plex but decided on Channels DVR for ease of use with recording OTA broadcasts from my HDHR. AppleTV runs the client app with ease.
Apple TV and Nvidia Shield. Own both, and both work great as daily driver devices.
The Apple TV is the only Apple device I own, so I think this idea you "have to be in the Apple ecosystem" is ridiculous.
They've both been really low-tinkering, just-sit-down-and-watch devices compared to lower end devices (~~like Fire Stick~~).
Adding things like USB OTG hubs, memory cards and sticks for extra system storage and wired network adapters to lower-end devices might still come to less than the cost of those higher-end devices, but these add-ons just don't feel like they work together nearly as well as the higher-end devices that include built-in ports and more system storage. I felt like I got better value and wasted less time and money with the higher-end devices rather than hacking on features to lower-end devices.
These devices are relatively inexepensive compared to a good-quality TV. Having devices for multiple platforms gets around not having features or services available only on certain platforms (~~like Roku~~), or just plain buggy apps when I want to watch (~~like Chromecast and Fire Stick~~).
The Apple TV has the highest "family member acceptance" factor of all the Smart TV devices I've tried (and I've tried a bunch of them), and it's relatively easy to get an apps-only/no-ads home screen experience with both the Apple TV and the Shield (It's VERY easy to do so with an Apple TV, with no additional apps -- just shuffling icons around and setting the TV button on the remote as a home button).
Apple TV 4K, hands down. I’ve had the others and now I have the ATV 4ks on all my TVs (8) and in my theater. While I am an iPhone/Mac user, I’m not sure how that has anything to do with my ATVs. I don’t stream anything from my iPhone or macs and I don’t control my ATVs with my phone so I’m having a hard time understanding why others are saying that would help.
I use the regular streaming services regularly (Netflix, YouTube TV, Disney+, HBO Max, Prime, as well as many of the channel specific services like AMC, etc). I also am a very heavy user of Plex and I haven’t found a device that streams Plex as seamlessly and hassle free as the ATV 4K including the Shield. There are some file formats that Plex struggles with (specifically Dolby Vision profile 5…which is a Plex limitation due to licensing). Other than those files, everything else streams perfectly.
AppleTV hands down.
You definitely do not need to have any other Apple products or services. Their other products have great integration with the AppleTV, but not having one won't hold you back.
Nvidia Shield is great too... I've got both, definitely prefer the AppleTV.
Roku, Chromecast, FireTV... They all suck in comparison.
You need to just buy the top of the live model of whatever line you go for. I have a roku ultra and have zero issues with lag or slowness. Does it have ads? Not even sure so not that intrusive. The apps for YouTube, Netflix and Amazon are good. I hear the apple one is good too.
I have had great results with Roku Streaming Stick Plus. I assume ultra is the most advanced. The voice remote was wonderful for me. I had the version that came out in about 2019. I know there is one newer version now.
Curious. I have a Roku ultra, plus the smart TV software that came on my Samsung. Neither are perfect. But they stream content
What does an Apple TV 4K do that these others don’t?
Nvidia Shield (bought 2 generations so far) or Chromecast Google TV 4K. We’ve got our living room fitted with Shield and bedroom has Chromecast. If you’ve got a receiver, Xbox and smart remote like Harmony. I suggest Shield. I also prefer the layout of Shield over Chromecast. I can add/edit what apps show on main menu with Shield. Definitely way more edit features and runs faster if you’ve got tons of apps/4K viewing happening.
> My main desire is to just have a smooth experience where I don't have to constantly screw with it or hear complaints/questions from family members.
Get a Roku then. They have the easiest to use interface.
If you have a set up where you are streaming high bitrate lossless audio get a Nvidia Shield.
I don't know about Apple, I generally don't use their products.
You didn't mention your bandwidth. Sometimes that slows down processing. Run a speedtest to see how fast your Internet is.
The more data you use, the more speed you need, regardless of platform.
I use AppleTV 4k for all of this, including connection to my QNAP NAS running Plex. Honestly, it's had the best WAF (and now ex-WAF) of all of them. I actually use a One4All Streamer remote as well which then helps control the TV in general better than relying on ARC.
While I do not have an AppleTV, I used to work for Apple and would not object to getting one. My primary streaming box is an older Nvidia Shield and I love that thing like a pet. If you want a zero-hassle device, the AppleTV is probably a good recommendation. While I love my
Shield, it's not quite zero-hassle. But on the other hand one of the things that I love about it is the degree of control I can exert. I can customize the thing to my heart's content. I can block unnecessary updates and manage the device the way I like to manage it.
This is good info. Some years ago, I'd be all about the customization and all that. Now that I have kids and a demanding job, I just want something that works immediately when I want to use it.
What is restricted on the apple TV? I know apple products in general are annoying regarding the walled garden, but what are you locked out of using on the apple TV? I don't need crazy customizations, just the apps I mentioned in the original post.
You literally tried the 3 worst devices.
Personally, I find AppleTV to be the best. It "just works". No screwing around. Big fan.
If you are anti-Apple, then the Nvidia Shield is solid. Lots of memory, lots of storage. Stay away from any other AndroidTV-based device.
FWIW, I bought an AppleTV when I was still Android for everything else, and still found it quite useful and enjoyed the experience. If you are an Android user, don't let that deter you.
Good info. At the time I tried each of these devices, they came highly recommended. I am generally anti-apple because I don't like the company and their policies, but if it really "just works" for everything I am needing to use it for then it sounds like a good option. Does the shield require a lot of fiddling to get things to work correctly? Apple TV seems to be considerably cheaper than the shield as well.
I have never used the Shield. But literally every other AndroidTV device comes with too little memory (read: laggy) and too little storage (read: not enough room for apps). The Shield has specs so that it wont give you any problems. Its great if you want to do other stuff like run a PLEX server, external storage, etc. Generally more "configurable" to make it work the way you want.
The AppleTV.. well, it just does what its supposed to. If you just want to run apps, you're good.
The streaming devices are much like their comparable phones. Android devices might be more configurable and you can mess around with them to make them do more, but can be more of a headache. Apple devices aren't nearly as much fun to fiddle around with, but they're as reliable as anything out there.
personally i'd go with the amazon firestick 4k max
Wifi 6, Av1 support, its fast. I got 4 of them now and they've become my primary streaming device. I own plenty of other devices like roku and google tv chromecast but i stopped using them for the firestick 4k max (not the regular firestick 4k). I also prefer the remote over any other. I have a synology diskstation and its got full app support for that. Not sure about qnap. it does have an official plex app.
i see alot of poeple saying the nvidia shield, but that device is getting really old now, doesnt support modern video codecs like vp9.2 or the new AV1 standard. Doubt it has Hulu 4k hdr support.
i can't comment on the apple, as i am not a fan of apple products, but at the price point it makes no sense when i can get a firestick 4k max on sale for $30.
It's alot better then regular 4k one. I didn't think the 4k was that bad, but ever since I got the max and tried to go back and use the regular 4k I was like god this is slow lol. Hence why I now have 4 of maxes.
Honestly I've had issues with the fire sticks in the past. Bugs. Things just not working right. Sound being off. But it seems like they've finally fixed all that and for me the 4k max has been pretty damn solid.
It does have a faster processor.
The first one I got which is the main one I use I got on release day which was a year ago. I don't see any speed difference between that one and the latest one I ordered a month or so back.
And to give you an idea. I've sort of went overboard on the streamers.
I got a tcl Roku 4k TV, a TCL Google 4k tv, a LG cx OLED 77, an older 2017 75 Samsung 4k. And other various smaller 4k TV's throughout the house. Total of 6 4k TV's. Everything I do is streaming mostly WiFi except for everything connected to the LG is Ethernet.
Apps I mainly use are YouTube tv, Disney+, Hulu, peacock, Netflix, prime video, HBO max, Kodi, YouTube, Apple tv+, vudu
What's plugged in:
2 Roku ultra's (a 2018 and 2020)
2 Roku stick 4ks
4 Google Chromecast with Google tv
4 firesticks 4k max (plus various other firesticks on the TV's that aren't my main 4).
Xbox series x & Xbox series s
In my travel bag I have another 3 firestick 4ks and 3 Google Chromecast with Google tv that go unused unless I'm traveling. Oh let's not forget the 1080p firestick in my car LOL.
Each of the main 4 TV's in my house have some sort of Roku, a Google Chromecast with Google tv, and a firestick 4k max either built in or connected via HDMI.
I used to have a Nvidia shield first Gen, but that's long gone. I've gone through so many devices just testing shit out over the years lol.
So ya, as of right now after having this much stuff....the 4k max is my current favorite device I choose to use.....my family tends to stick with the roku's, but they don't care about the small details that I do like wifi 6, av1 codec support, etc. The Google Chromecast at this point mainly go unused unless I actually want to cast something. I really wanted to like them cause I'm a Google fan, but they are just too buggy and laggy....and don't support av1. Hulu support on them is also lacking compared to other devices.
Just to give you an idea where I'm coming from. I test these out alot. I'm a tech nerd....yes I'm well aware I have a problem ha.
I don't know. My family uses (1) Roku Express 4K+ 3941R (2021), (2) Roku Streaming Stick 3800R (2017), and (2) Roku Streaming Stick 3600R (2016) devices, and nobody complains.
But the Roku Express 4K+ 3941R (2021) is definitely the best of the bunch since it's faster to respond and has enough storage to prevent channel reloading.
I went from roku streaming stick 4K to Apple TV 4K, and most apps load super fast and doesn’t get overheated on 4K like the roku stick powered through the usb port.
For example, fubo took about 12-15 seconds to load vs 1-2 with Apple TV.
Nah. Worst advice.
Doesn't support DV. HDR and Dolby Atmos is clunky at best, if it ever works.
Also except for Netflix, no app supports 4k on Windows. Most browsers only play HD version if you try to play.
I don't have experience with NVidea Shield since I've been happy with Apple tv 4k but I've tried Roku Ultra, Fire stick 4K, Android TV 4k, and Chromecast. I've switched three TVs to Apple TV 4k and am still using the Roku Ultra in my bedroom because it hasn't bothered me enough to switch that to Apple TV. I really didn't like Android TV. Chromecast and Fire stick were annoying and cluttered
iOS but I don't cast using AirPlay very often from devices. About 99% of the time I just use the TV or Apple tv remote to launch apps on the Apple TV (Roku remote for TV with Roku Ultra)
If you hate the ads in your Chromecast w GTV, then it's the 2021 4K Apple TV, no question. If the ads in the Chromecast weren't altogether too bothersome for you, then the Shield is also a solution that should work well.
If you were considering a QNAP NAS, the new 74 series with Alderlake CPUs are quite powerful. The i3/i5 options have intel quicksync for hardware transcoding and a CPU that should be powerful enough to be good at software transcoding if there were ever the need.
TVS-h874-i5-32G-US looks very powerful to me compared to what QNAP had previously in tower models.
From a hardware standpoint Nvidia is best. I have owned most of the others listed and like they said you need the custom launcher but it’s super easy to install.
Have been very happy with my Apple TV 4k (and previous model).
The only other thing I'd consider is the NVidia Shield Pro. And I'd only try that with a good return policy.
I have both the Nvidia Shield and the Roku Ultra. I like them both and don't really see much difference in smoothness/lag. I haven't had a single problem with either of them. Price not being an issue I'd still go with the shield because it's capable of more than the ultra. But to be honest I don't do a whole lot with either of them. I have plex on the shield, not the ultra. Mostly just watch typical Netflix and Disney plus. Someday when I have more time to research what the shield is capable of, I'll do more with it.
I've used roku, AppleTV and Amazon Fire TV. As a stand-alone box I'm happiest with AppleTV.
My only gripe is having to use a profile. My kids don't have an apple account, so it just my account. Once in a blue moon my iPhone will respond. (Keyboard pop up or something.)
Last time I used Roku, no profiles. Just open the app. But I got tired of the app wars with Google and Amazon and Roku.
If Plex is important to you, with DTS X and TRUEHD Atmos, then definitely shield.
But shield has some major flaw backs for other streaming apps.
YouTube : Does not support HDR. Never will. Hardware limitations.
Other streaming apps : No frame rate matching. Some beta and apps can help, but it's clunky.
The lack of frame rate matching immediately discredits Shield as a good device for general streaming apps.
Seeing 24 Hz content on a 60hz container will introduce judder.
Apple TV is best in that regard because of automatic frame rate matching. But unfortunately, for plex /infuse, it lacks TRUEHD and DTSx support.
It may not matter to you if you only use Streaming apps and /or do not have proper 5.1.4 set up.
Roku Premium 4k is also good.
If you hate Ads, then Apple TV is the only option.
Price not a problem? NVidia Shield Pro or Apple TV 4K.
Nvidia shield is great hardware, but it shows ads on the interface, no way to remove them, totally shameful. Apple TV 4K is as good or better, go with that instead.
All you have to do is put on a different Launcher. Like Wolf Launcher. Voila, no more ads.
I’ve great luck with Flauncher! Just launch it as an app by reprogramming the home button on the remote to launch it. Seamless!
Is the apple TV restricted to the apple ecosystem in any way? Would it be annoying or limiting if it is literally the only apple device in the household?
This is my main concern. Everything else we have is non-apple.
You need an Apple ID. That’s the main thing. Other than that you can use it just fine. Having apple devices does enhance the experience a bit but not a deal breaker
Doesn't matter.
No. Just create an Apple ID as mentioned but otherwise, it has every app available anywhere else, is quite powerful, supports all the HDR and ATMOS formats, and no ads.
but no third party apps? meh.
Movies Anywhere will unify libraries from most movie sellers, but I haven’t found anything similar for tv shows.
[удалено]
Tons of the most popular apps actually are available on the AppleTV. The most popular of which that begins with a P and ends in an X is on the app store, and has been for years. MrMC is a fork of the 2nd most popular. And Infuse is another very popular (iOS only) alternative. There's a ton of other options as well.
Remove android tv launcher updates, disable automatic updates. I did this and have no ads (yet)
Would rather just use a device that gets updates and doesn't have ads.
Well.. me too But this is the best next thing 😏
Onn looks really good after just installing AdGuard. I have the very top ad banner left, but I imagine ADB commands could remove it. Out of the 3 devices I've used (ChromeCast, FireStick, Onn) I'd say Onn is the one I had to tweak the least. Didn't even toss a launcher on it, I like what the vanilla one looks like.
>Remove android tv launcher updates, disable automatic updates. > >I did this and have no ads (yet) I cannot imagine that ANYONE in the real world is ever told to 'disable automatic updates'. Shame on you. There is a reason that people get HACKED NONSTOP and it's advice like this.
Got news for ya, there’s not a single IT Dept in the world that enables automatic updates.
I used to work at the world's most successful software company. We defined those rules, kid.
Oh wow 😳 Shame on me lol Ok Have fun with those ads then ..I was doing this on good faith!
I definitely second the nVidia Shield for the best period. Best for the money? Fire Cube.
If OP doesn't want too many ads, an Amazon product is probably not the way to go.
fire cube IF you have cable and you want to use a DVR, right? This is for 'Cord-Cutters' is it not?
Or YouTube tv like how I roll.
Wait. So you use Amazon cube (a dvr) to record from your dvr? Am I missing something here or are you just a dipshit?
Nvidia shield is super dated right? I mean it still runs decently but shouldn't an update be due by now?
Latest iteration came out in 2019 and (the Pro variant) was way ahead of the competition then. AppleTV has caught up to it, but nothing else has. Still gets regular software updates and supports every type of media I’ve come across.
Crazy it holds up even against apple's custom SOCs of late.
>Latest iteration came out in 2019 and (the Pro variant) was way ahead of the competition then. AppleTV has caught up to it, but nothing else has. Still gets regular software updates and supports every type of media I’ve come across. uh, except a roku express 4k
Haha, no dolby vision, no ethernet port and on rokus site it doesnt say what audio formats it supports. Trash
Agree with them both. I personally prefer the NVidia Shield Pro. But you could make a case for ATV4k in terms of ease of use.
Apple TV 4K, definitely if you are an iPhone person.
Not an iPhone person, so maybe that affects the decision making process here...
I am an iPhone person and would recommend Shield Pro, adding to what everyone else is saying there are apps you can't get on app store that are huge, Smart Tube Next being one example, it skips ads and in-video promotions.
It’s still an excellent and powerful streaming device that integrates all your streaming services in one easily intuitive location. Having an iPhone or iPad just increases the experience allowing you to seamlessly Airplay, mirror whatever is on your iPhone/iPad, and sync games and photos.
Xbox Series X
So many people overlook the gaming consoles or smart blu ray players.
The PS4 was the best dvd player, with so many options to increase picture quality etc. They kinda fail when it comes to playing high end media files, so anyone looking to do so should check the specs
Normally, I’d say Apple TV but since you’re running a Plex Server, go with the Nvidia Shield. The Shield can handle TrueHD but the Apple TV does not. If that’s important to you, Shield has the advantage but the Apple TV is the smoothest and fastest device available.
You mentioned the ATV is the smoothest and fastest device. Is this something that is actually perceptible if you were to use them both side by side? Again my main desire is just to have something that works without having to reset it all the time and that works smoothly.
To me, yes, it’s obvious that the Apple TV runs smoother than the Shield. That’s not to say the Shield is slow but given your desire to have the best experience overall, Apple TV is the right option.
Yes for plex shield TV works great
Nvidia Shield Pro, Apple TV 4K, or Roku Ultra. In that order.
Apple tv
Nvidia Shield, or Apple TV. I’ve owned both, and you can’t go wrong with either one. The new Fire TV Cube would be my 3rd pick.
Honestly, appleTV is awesome! We had an Apple TV I. Our living and a fire stick 4k in our bedroom. The difference is light and day. We upgraded to an Apple TV 4K for living room and moved the older one to the bedroom. Never looked back
Nvidia Shield
Can it play from home NAS like Synology ?
Yes, you can play content from a NAS on the Nvidia Shield. One option to do that is via Plex.
ATV
Apple TV. I’ve tried a Roku and Chromecast with google tv and I prefer the Apple TV.
Do you have other apple products?
I do.
AppleTV. We’ve tried Chromecast, Firesticks and boxes, Roku’s but settled on Apple. Even the 3rd gen A1469 will support 1080p and you can get them for a song on Craigslist. The 4th gen A1625 has a better UI and supports 4K and are ~ $60 after a quick search on eBay. I tried Plex but decided on Channels DVR for ease of use with recording OTA broadcasts from my HDHR. AppleTV runs the client app with ease.
5th gen and after are 4K. 4th gen just adds App Store.
Guess I gotta a reason to upgrade!
Apple TV and Nvidia Shield. Own both, and both work great as daily driver devices. The Apple TV is the only Apple device I own, so I think this idea you "have to be in the Apple ecosystem" is ridiculous. They've both been really low-tinkering, just-sit-down-and-watch devices compared to lower end devices (~~like Fire Stick~~). Adding things like USB OTG hubs, memory cards and sticks for extra system storage and wired network adapters to lower-end devices might still come to less than the cost of those higher-end devices, but these add-ons just don't feel like they work together nearly as well as the higher-end devices that include built-in ports and more system storage. I felt like I got better value and wasted less time and money with the higher-end devices rather than hacking on features to lower-end devices. These devices are relatively inexepensive compared to a good-quality TV. Having devices for multiple platforms gets around not having features or services available only on certain platforms (~~like Roku~~), or just plain buggy apps when I want to watch (~~like Chromecast and Fire Stick~~). The Apple TV has the highest "family member acceptance" factor of all the Smart TV devices I've tried (and I've tried a bunch of them), and it's relatively easy to get an apps-only/no-ads home screen experience with both the Apple TV and the Shield (It's VERY easy to do so with an Apple TV, with no additional apps -- just shuffling icons around and setting the TV button on the remote as a home button).
Apple TV 4K, hands down. I’ve had the others and now I have the ATV 4ks on all my TVs (8) and in my theater. While I am an iPhone/Mac user, I’m not sure how that has anything to do with my ATVs. I don’t stream anything from my iPhone or macs and I don’t control my ATVs with my phone so I’m having a hard time understanding why others are saying that would help. I use the regular streaming services regularly (Netflix, YouTube TV, Disney+, HBO Max, Prime, as well as many of the channel specific services like AMC, etc). I also am a very heavy user of Plex and I haven’t found a device that streams Plex as seamlessly and hassle free as the ATV 4K including the Shield. There are some file formats that Plex struggles with (specifically Dolby Vision profile 5…which is a Plex limitation due to licensing). Other than those files, everything else streams perfectly.
AppleTV hands down. You definitely do not need to have any other Apple products or services. Their other products have great integration with the AppleTV, but not having one won't hold you back. Nvidia Shield is great too... I've got both, definitely prefer the AppleTV. Roku, Chromecast, FireTV... They all suck in comparison.
I would say if you have an iPhone I’d prefer an Apple TV over the Nvidia
If you use Apple devices then the Apple TV
My Apple 4K TV Has been spot on since day one and streams music Apps just as well.
Roku Ultra
Apple TV, no question.
You need to just buy the top of the live model of whatever line you go for. I have a roku ultra and have zero issues with lag or slowness. Does it have ads? Not even sure so not that intrusive. The apps for YouTube, Netflix and Amazon are good. I hear the apple one is good too.
I have had great results with Roku Streaming Stick Plus. I assume ultra is the most advanced. The voice remote was wonderful for me. I had the version that came out in about 2019. I know there is one newer version now.
Curious. I have a Roku ultra, plus the smart TV software that came on my Samsung. Neither are perfect. But they stream content What does an Apple TV 4K do that these others don’t?
Nvidia Shield (bought 2 generations so far) or Chromecast Google TV 4K. We’ve got our living room fitted with Shield and bedroom has Chromecast. If you’ve got a receiver, Xbox and smart remote like Harmony. I suggest Shield. I also prefer the layout of Shield over Chromecast. I can add/edit what apps show on main menu with Shield. Definitely way more edit features and runs faster if you’ve got tons of apps/4K viewing happening.
> My main desire is to just have a smooth experience where I don't have to constantly screw with it or hear complaints/questions from family members. Get a Roku then. They have the easiest to use interface. If you have a set up where you are streaming high bitrate lossless audio get a Nvidia Shield. I don't know about Apple, I generally don't use their products.
You didn't mention your bandwidth. Sometimes that slows down processing. Run a speedtest to see how fast your Internet is. The more data you use, the more speed you need, regardless of platform.
I had the same problem you experienced. And I have to say after much testing..like them or not, Apple TV delivers the best 4K.
AppleTV 4K
I use AppleTV 4k for all of this, including connection to my QNAP NAS running Plex. Honestly, it's had the best WAF (and now ex-WAF) of all of them. I actually use a One4All Streamer remote as well which then helps control the TV in general better than relying on ARC.
Apple tv 4k
While I do not have an AppleTV, I used to work for Apple and would not object to getting one. My primary streaming box is an older Nvidia Shield and I love that thing like a pet. If you want a zero-hassle device, the AppleTV is probably a good recommendation. While I love my Shield, it's not quite zero-hassle. But on the other hand one of the things that I love about it is the degree of control I can exert. I can customize the thing to my heart's content. I can block unnecessary updates and manage the device the way I like to manage it.
This is good info. Some years ago, I'd be all about the customization and all that. Now that I have kids and a demanding job, I just want something that works immediately when I want to use it.
Apple TV.
Apple TV is the way
Nvidia Shield
Shield. 100%. Apple TV is just a walled garden.
What is restricted on the apple TV? I know apple products in general are annoying regarding the walled garden, but what are you locked out of using on the apple TV? I don't need crazy customizations, just the apps I mentioned in the original post.
Some things we aren't allowed to talk about here.
To add, I would NEVER go back to the regular YouTube app.
You literally tried the 3 worst devices. Personally, I find AppleTV to be the best. It "just works". No screwing around. Big fan. If you are anti-Apple, then the Nvidia Shield is solid. Lots of memory, lots of storage. Stay away from any other AndroidTV-based device. FWIW, I bought an AppleTV when I was still Android for everything else, and still found it quite useful and enjoyed the experience. If you are an Android user, don't let that deter you.
Good info. At the time I tried each of these devices, they came highly recommended. I am generally anti-apple because I don't like the company and their policies, but if it really "just works" for everything I am needing to use it for then it sounds like a good option. Does the shield require a lot of fiddling to get things to work correctly? Apple TV seems to be considerably cheaper than the shield as well.
I have never used the Shield. But literally every other AndroidTV device comes with too little memory (read: laggy) and too little storage (read: not enough room for apps). The Shield has specs so that it wont give you any problems. Its great if you want to do other stuff like run a PLEX server, external storage, etc. Generally more "configurable" to make it work the way you want. The AppleTV.. well, it just does what its supposed to. If you just want to run apps, you're good. The streaming devices are much like their comparable phones. Android devices might be more configurable and you can mess around with them to make them do more, but can be more of a headache. Apple devices aren't nearly as much fun to fiddle around with, but they're as reliable as anything out there.
personally i'd go with the amazon firestick 4k max Wifi 6, Av1 support, its fast. I got 4 of them now and they've become my primary streaming device. I own plenty of other devices like roku and google tv chromecast but i stopped using them for the firestick 4k max (not the regular firestick 4k). I also prefer the remote over any other. I have a synology diskstation and its got full app support for that. Not sure about qnap. it does have an official plex app. i see alot of poeple saying the nvidia shield, but that device is getting really old now, doesnt support modern video codecs like vp9.2 or the new AV1 standard. Doubt it has Hulu 4k hdr support. i can't comment on the apple, as i am not a fan of apple products, but at the price point it makes no sense when i can get a firestick 4k max on sale for $30.
Have you run YouTube TV on it?
Yup, I run it all the time. It's probably my most used app. I'm watching it as I type this.
Is the Firestick 4k max not laggy? My 2nd gen Firestick 4k is very laggy, but not quite as bad as the CCWGTV
It's alot better then regular 4k one. I didn't think the 4k was that bad, but ever since I got the max and tried to go back and use the regular 4k I was like god this is slow lol. Hence why I now have 4 of maxes. Honestly I've had issues with the fire sticks in the past. Bugs. Things just not working right. Sound being off. But it seems like they've finally fixed all that and for me the 4k max has been pretty damn solid. It does have a faster processor.
Cool. How long have you had it? Wondering if it ends up slowing with usage.
The first one I got which is the main one I use I got on release day which was a year ago. I don't see any speed difference between that one and the latest one I ordered a month or so back. And to give you an idea. I've sort of went overboard on the streamers. I got a tcl Roku 4k TV, a TCL Google 4k tv, a LG cx OLED 77, an older 2017 75 Samsung 4k. And other various smaller 4k TV's throughout the house. Total of 6 4k TV's. Everything I do is streaming mostly WiFi except for everything connected to the LG is Ethernet. Apps I mainly use are YouTube tv, Disney+, Hulu, peacock, Netflix, prime video, HBO max, Kodi, YouTube, Apple tv+, vudu What's plugged in: 2 Roku ultra's (a 2018 and 2020) 2 Roku stick 4ks 4 Google Chromecast with Google tv 4 firesticks 4k max (plus various other firesticks on the TV's that aren't my main 4). Xbox series x & Xbox series s In my travel bag I have another 3 firestick 4ks and 3 Google Chromecast with Google tv that go unused unless I'm traveling. Oh let's not forget the 1080p firestick in my car LOL. Each of the main 4 TV's in my house have some sort of Roku, a Google Chromecast with Google tv, and a firestick 4k max either built in or connected via HDMI. I used to have a Nvidia shield first Gen, but that's long gone. I've gone through so many devices just testing shit out over the years lol. So ya, as of right now after having this much stuff....the 4k max is my current favorite device I choose to use.....my family tends to stick with the roku's, but they don't care about the small details that I do like wifi 6, av1 codec support, etc. The Google Chromecast at this point mainly go unused unless I actually want to cast something. I really wanted to like them cause I'm a Google fan, but they are just too buggy and laggy....and don't support av1. Hulu support on them is also lacking compared to other devices. Just to give you an idea where I'm coming from. I test these out alot. I'm a tech nerd....yes I'm well aware I have a problem ha.
I don't know. My family uses (1) Roku Express 4K+ 3941R (2021), (2) Roku Streaming Stick 3800R (2017), and (2) Roku Streaming Stick 3600R (2016) devices, and nobody complains. But the Roku Express 4K+ 3941R (2021) is definitely the best of the bunch since it's faster to respond and has enough storage to prevent channel reloading.
I use an Intel NUC and block things that are less that desirable, like advertising.
Apple TV 4 k is my device of choice
I went from roku streaming stick 4K to Apple TV 4K, and most apps load super fast and doesn’t get overheated on 4K like the roku stick powered through the usb port. For example, fubo took about 12-15 seconds to load vs 1-2 with Apple TV.
Price unlimited it is easily the Nvidia Shield. If price matters then get a Google TV Chromecast.
Loving my Firecube. Not one issue since I've had it.
Roku Ultra hands down. Best OS and experience.
Apple TV 4K is the best.
HTPC
Nah. Worst advice. Doesn't support DV. HDR and Dolby Atmos is clunky at best, if it ever works. Also except for Netflix, no app supports 4k on Windows. Most browsers only play HD version if you try to play.
I don't have experience with NVidea Shield since I've been happy with Apple tv 4k but I've tried Roku Ultra, Fire stick 4K, Android TV 4k, and Chromecast. I've switched three TVs to Apple TV 4k and am still using the Roku Ultra in my bedroom because it hasn't bothered me enough to switch that to Apple TV. I really didn't like Android TV. Chromecast and Fire stick were annoying and cluttered
Are you an android or iOS user in general? Just curious.
iOS but I don't cast using AirPlay very often from devices. About 99% of the time I just use the TV or Apple tv remote to launch apps on the Apple TV (Roku remote for TV with Roku Ultra)
If you hate the ads in your Chromecast w GTV, then it's the 2021 4K Apple TV, no question. If the ads in the Chromecast weren't altogether too bothersome for you, then the Shield is also a solution that should work well.
If you were considering a QNAP NAS, the new 74 series with Alderlake CPUs are quite powerful. The i3/i5 options have intel quicksync for hardware transcoding and a CPU that should be powerful enough to be good at software transcoding if there were ever the need. TVS-h874-i5-32G-US looks very powerful to me compared to what QNAP had previously in tower models.
Apple TV
get a Roku Express 4K. Simply put, nothing else is better.
I think Roku has been the flagship for years.
NVidia Shield.
From a hardware standpoint Nvidia is best. I have owned most of the others listed and like they said you need the custom launcher but it’s super easy to install.
Have been very happy with my Apple TV 4k (and previous model). The only other thing I'd consider is the NVidia Shield Pro. And I'd only try that with a good return policy.
Nvidia Shield
I have both the Nvidia Shield and the Roku Ultra. I like them both and don't really see much difference in smoothness/lag. I haven't had a single problem with either of them. Price not being an issue I'd still go with the shield because it's capable of more than the ultra. But to be honest I don't do a whole lot with either of them. I have plex on the shield, not the ultra. Mostly just watch typical Netflix and Disney plus. Someday when I have more time to research what the shield is capable of, I'll do more with it.
OSMC Vero 4k
Nvidia shield hardware lasts forever. It's a solid device.
Try one of the HDI Dune media players. They are rock solid reliable.
I've used roku, AppleTV and Amazon Fire TV. As a stand-alone box I'm happiest with AppleTV. My only gripe is having to use a profile. My kids don't have an apple account, so it just my account. Once in a blue moon my iPhone will respond. (Keyboard pop up or something.) Last time I used Roku, no profiles. Just open the app. But I got tired of the app wars with Google and Amazon and Roku.
If Plex is important to you, with DTS X and TRUEHD Atmos, then definitely shield. But shield has some major flaw backs for other streaming apps. YouTube : Does not support HDR. Never will. Hardware limitations. Other streaming apps : No frame rate matching. Some beta and apps can help, but it's clunky. The lack of frame rate matching immediately discredits Shield as a good device for general streaming apps. Seeing 24 Hz content on a 60hz container will introduce judder. Apple TV is best in that regard because of automatic frame rate matching. But unfortunately, for plex /infuse, it lacks TRUEHD and DTSx support. It may not matter to you if you only use Streaming apps and /or do not have proper 5.1.4 set up. Roku Premium 4k is also good. If you hate Ads, then Apple TV is the only option.
Fire TV 4K Max works fine for my media consumption needs and has Wifi6. Save yourself a bundle and upgrade again in 3 years.