How to buy and optimize a used Nvidia Shield Pro in 2024

November 19, 2024 T.N.

Hello everyone, and thank you for stopping by our blog, How to Buy and Optimize a Used Nvidia Shield Pro in 2024. We are D3vicx (pronounced “devices”), and we specialize in customizing and sideloading premium streaming devices to help you enjoy paid TV entertainment for free.

I’m writing this blog to help as many people as possible avoid getting scammed on eBay. One of the most common questions we get is: When buying a used Nvidia Shield Pro, how can you tell the difference? In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between the Nvidia Shield TV 2017 and Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 models and guide you in choosing the right used Nvidia Shield. Not to confuse you with the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2017 500GB and a gaming controller that comes in a black box.

Before we dive in, here’s an important tip: never buy anything refurbished—especially a used Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019. Refurbished tech items don’t come with warranties, and they carry a higher risk of issues that could waste your money.

Beyond helping you identify the right Nvidia Shield, we’ll also discuss how to handle its software, including Android 11. Should you keep it or downgrade it? We’ll walk you through what to do if you stick with Android 11 and what steps to take if you decide to downgrade.

Let’s be honest: buying a used Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 isn’t always easy. Once you’ve read this blog, ask yourself: Was the money I saved worth it? Remember, a brand-new Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 is only $199.99 in the US right now (before tariffs).

Here’s what we’ll cover:

How to Identify a Used Nvidia Shield TV: 2017 vs. 2019 Pro
How to Optimize Your Nvidia Shield Pro: Flashing and Downgrading Android 11
FAQs
In Conclusion

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How to Identify a Used Nvidia Shield TV: 2017 vs. 2019 Pro

The Nvidia Shield TV 2017 and the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 are physically identical twins in every way possible. Below we will explain how you can tell them apart which has been a mystic up until now. Big thanks to Reddit user Poker356 for answering my question on this topic! Without their guidance, this detail might still be unknown today.

The Problem: Spotting the Difference

The Nvidia Shield TV 2017 and Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 look nearly identical. If you’re shopping on platforms like eBay, it can be tricky to tell them apart—and scammers know this. Here are a few things people suggest for spotting the difference, but be cautious:

The Remote: The 2019 Pro model comes with a newer remote. But a scammer can easily buy a 2019 Pro remote and pair it with the 2017 TV model to make it look legit.
The Box: You’d think the packaging would help, but nope. Scammers sell empty 2019 Pro model boxes online and could use one to house the 2017 TV model.
The Model Number: Surely this will clear things up, right? Wrong. NVIDIA gave both the 2017 TV model and the 2019 Pro model the same P2897 model number. (Why, do this NVIDIA? Why?)

The Real Way to Tell Them Apart

So, how can you confirm you’re getting a true Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019? The answer lies inside the device itself.

First, the biggest difference is the processor:

The 2019 Pro model uses the NVIDIA® Tegra® X1+ processor.
The 2017 TV model uses the NVIDIA® Tegra® X1 processor.

But unless you’re a tech wizard who can spot performance differences instantly, you need to dig deeper.

The Foolproof Method

When buying a used Nvidia Shield Pro, how can you tell the difference? Poker356 answer below.

Here’s the step-by-step to identify your device:

Go to Settings.
Navigate to Device Preferences -> About -> Status -> Device Information.
Look at the processor details:
- A 2019 Pro model will say: "Tegra X1+ mDarcy".
- A 2017 TV model will say: "T210 Darcy".

Advice for Buyers and Sellers

If you’re a seller on the eBay platform, do everyone a favor and include a photo of the Device Information page in your listing. It’s the easiest way to give buyers peace of mind.

If you’re a buyer, make sure to check this info as soon as you receive the device. If the seller refuses to provide proof or their listing seems vague, do not buy from them, just move on.

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How to Optimize Your Nvidia Shield Pro: Flashing and Downgrading Android 11

Why Downgrade from Android 11?

If you're using a used Nvidia Shield Pro and struggling with Android 11, here's what you need to know. Android 11 can be a nightmare for sideloading on the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019. If you don’t plan to sideload the device, you can skip this part and proceed with whatever you intend to do.

Now, let’s talk about the biggest complaint with streaming devices. Any guesses? That’s right—buffering. For some reason, Android 11 slows down the Nvidia Shield TV Pro by as much as 20%, causing major buffering issues. The fix, if you plan to stick with Android 11, is to disable the Plex Media Server. We don’t know why, but disabling it works wonders for eliminating buffering.

If you plan to sideload your device, though, your best option is to flash the system and downgrade to Android 9 version 8.2.1. (Avoid version 8.2.3—it comes with an overload of ads on the Home Screen.) Downgrading gives you full control of your device, allowing you to customize it as you like. Android 11 blocks a lot of APKs you may need, and it’s especially restrictive when it comes to sideloading.

Android 9 version 8.2.1, on the other hand, is far more forgiving. It lets you do everything from streaming free movies to running Hyperspin. Downgrading is like preserving a classic car—it freezes your device and software in time, keeping it functional and flexible.

What You’ll Need To Complete the Downgrade

Before rushing off to flash the system, you’ll need a few things—first and foremost, a computer. Are you using macOS or Windows? If you’re on macOS, you’re in luck! We have an entire three-part series just for you. Windows users, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered too.

Instructions for starting to remove Android 11 from your Nvidia Shield Pro.

You need to create the Developer Account first.

Get yourself the Shield Controller: Model P2920 for Nvidia 2017
USB 3.0 Type-A to Type-A cable https://amazon.com
Get yourself a Developer Account https://developer.nvidia.com/

Check out the related post for walkthrough video guidance.

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FAQs

Here are the most common questions about the Nvidia Shield TV Pro. We’ll share our opinions to help you make informed decisions. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if this information aligns with your goals.

Can I upgrade the used Nvidia Shield TV Pro's firmware?

Yes, you can, but if you plan to sideload apps, upgrading is not recommended. The key to owning this device is keeping it on the best firmware for maximum performance. Upgrading often worsens performance—crazy, but true! Personally, I use a Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 and don’t sign in at all. There’s no need to sign in unless you’re using the Google Play Store, which I bypass by using third-party app stores.

How do I avoid overheating on a used Nvidia Shield TV Pro?

While the Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 isn’t known for overheating, it’s always good to ensure proper ventilation. Consider getting a stand to improve airflow. Additionally, tweak the settings:

Go to Settings -> Device Preferences -> System -> Processor Mode and enable Max Performance.
Under Fan Mode, switch to Cool for an hour, then change it to Quiet.
If your device still overheats, the fan may need to be replaced.

Is the used Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 worth buying?

In my opinion, no, it’s not worth it. Most used Nvidia Shield TV Pros only save you about $30 compared to buying new. For that extra $30, you get a brand-new, untouched device with no hidden issues. On eBay, I’ve seen plenty of poorly maintained, dirty used devices—it’s clear some owners didn’t value them. If someone doesn’t take care of a high-value item, it’s basically trash.

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Sign Up for Our Newsletter to Learn More

See this content in the original post

Hey there! While this blog focuses on used Nvidia Shield TV Pros, it’s just as important to know about Jailbroken Nvidia Shield Pros.

Let’s be honest—you’re here because the Nvidia Shield Pro is the ultimate streaming device for sideloading APKs and watching free TV entertainment. Compared to a Firestick, it’s in a league of its own.

To help you get the most out of this amazing device, we’ve created a 4-part email series. Each email gives you bite-sized insights into how the Jailbroken Nvidia Shield Pro can solve your streaming problems. By the 4th email, you’ll get a sneak peek at a walkthrough video showing just 1% of what’s on the device and how effortlessly we’ve set it up with our Elite System.

And here’s the kicker: once you sign up, you might even get a surprise discount—just for being awesome. Keep an eye out for your first email!

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Join the Discord Community

How many other jailbroken device sellers offer an exclusive tech support group? That’s right—just us! We wanted to give our customers a faster, more direct way to reach us if they run into issues with their jailbroken devices.

With Discord, you can send photos and videos directly in the tech support group. If our video manuals didn’t solve the problem, we’ll review what you’ve sent and guide you through the fix.

But that’s not all. Our Discord has evolved into more than just a support hub—it’s a place where you can ask us questions directly, connect with other jailbroken device owners, and hear their honest opinions about the device.

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In Conclusion

The big question is: Is buying a used Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 worth it? The clear answer is no. However, if that’s the route you choose, take this important information with you when shopping on websites like eBay or Craiglist. Also, consider checking for open-box deals at reputable stores like Best Buy, MicroCenter, or B&H.

Here’s something special most people don’t know about the Nvidia Shield lineup: it’s a lot like the iPhone. The software gets small upgrades, but the design stays nearly identical. The Nvidia Shield TV Pro 2019 does feature a newer chip, making it 25% faster, but otherwise, it’s quite similar to the 2017 and even 2015 models.

To be fair, the 2019 version does come with some enhancements, including AI Upscaling, Dolby Vision & Atmos, and Plex Media Server. If you own an older Nvidia Shield, ask yourself if you’ll actually use those features—only then is upgrading worth it. Since I never owned the earlier models, I can’t personally weigh in on the differences.

If you’re new to the Nvidia Shield altogether, save yourself the headaches. Take action and invest in a Jailbroken Nvidia Shield Pro that’s fully optimized to last 3 to 5 years. It’s a decision you won’t regret.