How to Make Sure You’re Streaming in Full 4K
Remember HDTV? Full 1080p? Well, those days are long gone, baby! Now 4k is the minimum resolution you want to watch. Otherwise, what are you doing with your eyes?
4K is also known as UHD (“ultra high definition”) or 2160p (which is dual 1080p for mathematicians). This means that the size of the screen you are watching is 3840 x 2160 pixels. Most new TVs and computer monitors currently support this resolution, but there are a few extra steps you need to take to ensure that the content you’re watching is truly 4K.
First, make sure the platform you are streaming from does indeed support 4K. For example, HBO Max just recently started streaming 4K content, and if you’re using a FireTV Stick you’ll need to make sure you have a 4K model. Netflix will force you to upgrade your data plan and get all the UHD experience.
Next, you need to make sure the show you want to watch is 4K. Some older shows were not up-converted, and sometimes you have the option to choose the HD version or the 4K version.
Finally, make sure all of your cables, connections, and ports are 4K capable. Some TVs only have certain HDMI ports for 4K, so be sure to connect them appropriately. Happy broadcast!