The shield was launched in 2014. I purchased that version in 2015 and used it a lot it was a 16GB version. Then in 2017 I make my mind to upgrade to a newer version of Shield. This is the new controller version launched in (2017). I had the original system from past 2 years and bought this for some of the 2-player games I have. I appreciate my decision and like this over the older version of shield.
1
It is designed curvy and feels amazing. The curvy edges make it look more luxurious and gives fine shine to the design.
2 -
The battery life is much better then the 2015 Version of Shield. I haven’t done a side by side comparison, but my I can with my experience of using older version by 2 years that this 2017 version last long even on LED notification then the previous version.
3
Controls Are Amazing - the volume button, back, forward, and menu are replaced and not on the same side as on the older version and this will feel a bit confusing for those upgrading from older version to new but it will only take a day or two to get adjusted with new design. The volume is a touch panel just above the back, forward, and menu buttons.