This Streaming Device Beats Apple TV and Fire Stick in CR Rating

Many households now rely on streaming services for daily entertainment, and most modern smart TVs come with these apps pre-installed. Still, dedicated devices like the Amazon Fire TV Stick remain relevant because they typically load apps much faster than built-in smart TV software. But if you are hunting for the absolute best streaming device on the market, the top pick might surprise you: it comes from neither Amazon nor Apple.

Consumer Reports has named the Nvidia Shield TV Pro as the top streaming device available today. Powered by Android OS, this hardware is most often promoted as a cloud gaming platform, enabling users to stream PC games directly to a television with 4K HDR visuals and Dolby Atmos audio. Nvidia claims it delivers performance comparable to a GeForce RTX 4080. However, to use these gaming features, you must supply your own controller, own a library of compatible games from platforms like Steam or GOG, maintain a solid internet connection, and sign up for a GeForce NOW membership. A free tier exists, but if you want to play for longer than one hour at resolutions above 1080p or skip advertisements, you will need to pay a monthly subscription.

So why does the Nvidia Shield TV Pro earn the title of best streaming device rather than just a top-tier gaming box? The answer lies in its broad app support. It gives you access to major streaming services including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, and Apple TV. Some of these apps come pre-loaded, while others must be downloaded from the built-in app store. As with the gaming features, you will need an active subscription for each service you want to watch. Keep in mind that all of this sits on top of the device’s $200 price tag, available directly from the official Nvidia store.