At a Glance
- In this blog post, we’ll compare the NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server in terms of features, performance, and price to help you decide which one is the best option for you.
- The NAS Plex server has a slower processor than the NVIDIA Shield, so it may not be able to handle 4K HDR streaming or game streaming as smoothly.
- The NAS Plex server is a good option if you want a device that can store your media files and allow you to access them from anywhere in the world.
When it comes to streaming media in your home, you have two main options: an NVIDIA Shield or a NAS Plex server. Both devices have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. In this blog post, we’ll compare the NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server in terms of features, performance, and price to help you decide which one is the best option for you.
Features: NVIDIA Shield vs. NAS Plex Server
The NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server offer a variety of features that make them great choices for streaming media.
NVIDIA Shield:
- 4K HDR streaming: The NVIDIA Shield supports 4K HDR streaming, which means you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows in stunning quality.
- Android TV: The NVIDIA Shield runs on Android TV, which gives you access to a wide range of apps, including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube.
- Game streaming: The NVIDIA Shield can also be used to stream games from your PC to your TV.
- Voice control: The NVIDIA Shield comes with a remote control that features voice control, so you can search for content or control your device with your voice.
NAS Plex Server:
- Network-attached storage: The NAS Plex server is a network-attached storage (NAS) device, which means it can be used to store your media files.
- Plex Media Server: The NAS Plex server comes with Plex Media Server pre-installed, which is a software program that allows you to stream your media files to your devices.
- Transcoding: The NAS Plex server can transcode your media files on the fly, which means it can convert them to a format that is compatible with your devices.
- Remote access: You can access your media files on the NAS Plex server from anywhere in the world with an internet connection.
Performance: NVIDIA Shield vs. NAS Plex Server
The NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server both offer good performance, but there are some key differences.
NVIDIA Shield:
- Fast processor: The NVIDIA Shield has a fast processor that can handle 4K HDR streaming and game streaming without any problems.
- Quick boot time: The NVIDIA Shield boots up quickly, so you can start streaming your media right away.
NAS Plex Server:
- Slower processor: The NAS Plex server has a slower processor than the NVIDIA Shield, so it may not be able to handle 4K HDR streaming or game streaming as smoothly.
- Longer boot time: The NAS Plex server takes longer to boot up than the NVIDIA Shield, so you may have to wait a few minutes before you can start streaming your media.
Price: NVIDIA Shield vs. NAS Plex Server
The NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server are both available at a variety of price points.
NVIDIA Shield:
- NVIDIA Shield TV: The NVIDIA Shield TV is the most affordable option, starting at $149.99.
- NVIDIA Shield TV Pro: The NVIDIA Shield TV Pro is a more powerful version of the NVIDIA Shield TV, starting at $199.99.
NAS Plex Server:
- Synology DS220+: The Synology DS220+ is a popular NAS Plex server, starting at $249.99.
- QNAP TS-251+: The QNAP TS-251+ is another popular NAS Plex server, starting at $299.99.
Which One Should You Choose?
The NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server are both great choices for streaming media. The NVIDIA Shield is a good option if you want a device that is easy to use and can handle 4K HDR streaming and game streaming. The NAS Plex server is a good option if you want a device that can store your media files and allow you to access them from anywhere in the world.
Pros and Cons: NVIDIA Shield vs. NAS Plex Server
NVIDIA Shield:
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Can handle 4K HDR streaming and game streaming
- Quick boot time
Cons:
- More expensive than the NAS Plex server
- Does not have as much storage space as the NAS Plex server
NAS Plex Server:
Pros:
- Can store your media files
- Allows you to access your media files from anywhere in the world
- Can transcode your media files on the fly
Cons:
- Not as easy to use as the NVIDIA Shield
- May not be able to handle 4K HDR streaming or game streaming as smoothly as the NVIDIA Shield
- Longer boot time
The Verdict: NVIDIA Shield vs. NAS Plex Server
The NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server are both great choices for streaming media. The NVIDIA Shield is a good option if you want a device that is easy to use and can handle 4K HDR streaming and game streaming. The NAS Plex server is a good option if you want a device that can store your media files and allow you to access them from anywhere in the world. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Alternatives to NVIDIA Shield and NAS Plex Server
If you’re not sure whether the NVIDIA Shield or the NAS Plex server is the right choice for you, there are a few other options you can consider.
- Roku: Roku devices are a popular choice for streaming media. They are affordable and easy to use, and they offer a wide range of apps.
- Amazon Fire TV: Amazon Fire TV devices are another popular choice for streaming media. They are also affordable and easy to use, and they offer a wide range of apps.
- Apple TV: Apple TV devices are a good choice for people who have other Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs. They offer a seamless streaming experience and a wide range of apps.
Questions You May Have
1. What is the difference between the NVIDIA Shield and the NAS Plex server?
The NVIDIA Shield is a streaming media player, while the NAS Plex server is a network-attached storage (NAS) device that also includes Plex Media Server software.
2. Which one is better for streaming media?
The NVIDIA Shield is a better choice for streaming media if you want a device that is easy to use and can handle 4K HDR streaming and game streaming. The NAS Plex server is a better choice if you want a device that can store your media files and allow you to access them from anywhere in the world.
3. Which one is more expensive?
The NAS Plex server is more expensive than the NVIDIA Shield.
4. Which one is easier to use?
The NVIDIA Shield is easier to use than the NAS Plex server.
5. Which one has more storage space?
The NAS Plex server has more storage space than the NVIDIA Shield.