The TV Shield Vs Storm Shell - Compared

Storm Shell vs The TV Shield: Which is Best?

Welcome to the ultimate The TV Shield vs Storm Shell showdown. Perhaps you’re comparing The TV Shield and Storm Shell outdoor TV cases but are not sure which is best for your application. Below is a quick and easy comparison chart which includes The TV Shield PRO and main comparison points to know. To give you an idea upfront, Storm Shell is known for its low prices, however when it comes to outdoor applications, it will not be as reliable for protecting TVs by far and will likely need to be replaced frequently. The TV Shield offers long-lasting outdoor durability. So, a big question to consider as you learn about the differences between these enclosures is do you want to save a little money up front or a lot of money with a lasting product? Follow along below as we dissect and share sources explaining the differences in these products.

Storm Shell vs The TV Shield Comparison Chart

* This chart was last updated 2/1/2021

Key Storm Shell vs The TV Shield Comparison Points

Materials (UV Stabilized Polycarbonate and HMWPE vs ABS Plastic)

According to their website, the Storm Shell front cover (which is solid plastic so the TV cannot be viewed through it) and back cover are made of ABS plastic….

It is very important to note “ABS plastic has lower resistance to extreme conditions and industrial chemicals than polycarbonate and much lower than HMWPW. If your enclosure is likely to see exposure to high temperatures, solvents, or other challenging environments, you most likely need a polycarbonate enclosure,” ( Polycarbonate Enclosures vs. ABS Enclosures). ABS material is also known to have poor UV resistance. So essentially, ABS plastic provides very little true protection for outdoor environments.

The TV Shield front panel is made of UV stabilized polycarbonate available in clear or anti-glare options. Polycarbonate plastic is moldable, durable, lightweight, flame resistant, shatterproof, and energy efficient ( Why Select Polycarbonate Sheets?). This means not only do The TV Shield enclosure front screens allow direct viewing of the TV anytime without ever having to remove the front panel, but they completely protect the TV’s front screen. In addition, The TV shield housing is made of HMWPE, which is the top recommended outdoor plastic case material that offers true and lasting outdoor protection. “For outdoor applications, Polycase recommends the use of a polycarbonate enclosure. A well-made polycarbonate enclosure easily steps up to the challenges of withstanding wind, water, heat, and more to protect the sensitive components within,” ( Polycarbonate Enclosures vs. ABS Enclosures). HMWPE is one of the best materials on the market for UV resistance and The TV Shield also offers UV stabilized polycarbonate for front screen protection. Hands down The TV Shield is truly weatherproof while Storm Shell is not likely to last nearly as well outdoors. Both enclosure materials offer notable impact resistance.

Direct Viewing and Accessibility

Storm Shell is designed with a solid color front cover that must be removed each time the TV is used. This means if you wish to utilize the basic lock option with it, that must be removed and re-locked each time as well.

The TV Shield polycarbonate front shield allows direct viewing of the TV while in use or the front can also be lifted and propped up with pre-installed prop arms if you wish.

Weatherproofing

Storm Shell - Technically putting a TV outside in an ABS plastic tub (Storm Shell) will provide some minimal protection as it is a solid object covering the TV. On the other hand, ABS material is known to have poor UV resistance and is not considered nearly as durable or reliable for outdoor applications ( Polycarbonate Enclosures vs. ABS Enclosures). When it comes to water resistance, Storm Shell claims to be waterproof. Generally waterproof indicates completely submergible in water which seems unlikely for Storm Shell, since it is not sealed air-tight. There are no weatherproof seals at any juncture where the front panel and back housing come together, where the hardware and brackets install, and there are many additional intrusion points for both water and bugs. The TV Shield intentionally uses the verbiage “water-resistant” not waterproof, because while it is air-tight, has multiple seals, sealing hardware, and likely provides significantly better water-resistance than Storm Shell, the makers of The TV shield want to be clear and authentic that the unit can’t be submerged in water. In addition, based on available product information, it does not appear there is any moisture control or temperature control for Storm Shell.

The TV Shield – The TV Shield shatterproof front panel is UV stabilized polycarbonate. “A well-made polycarbonate enclosure easily steps up to the challenges of withstanding wind, water, heat, and more to protect the sensitive components within,” ( Polycarbonate Enclosures vs. ABS Enclosures). HMWPE is one of the best materials on the market for UV resistance. The TV Shield is water-resistant, provides moisture control, is well sealed around the entire unit, and has fans and heaters available for temperature control so TVs don’t get fried or frozen in extreme weather conditions. Both enclosure materials offer notable impact resistance. Hands down The TV Shield is truly weatherproof while Storm Shell is not likely to last nearly as well in most outdoor settings.

Is Storm Shell or The TV Shield More Reliable?

It’s pretty clear The TV Shield is by far a more reliable product. On the other hand, Storm Shell does save some money out the gate. But again, you get what you pay for. Hopefully, this has been an insightful deep dive to really help you understand the difference in the products. Now that you understand the differences in materials and design, you are all set to make a wise decision.