4K Netflix Streaming Guide for Non-4K Users

Streaming platforms like Netflix and Max have transformed the way we consume content, offering a cinematic experience right in our living rooms. Gone are the days of braving the elements and risking a 'Chicken Jockey' incident just to catch the latest flick. Now, you can enjoy movies and shows in stunning 4K from the comfort of your couch. Here's how to elevate your Netflix streaming to 4K glory.

How to Stream Netflix in 4K

Before diving into the world of 4K streaming, it's crucial to ensure you're subscribed to the right Netflix plan. Not all plans support 4K streaming. The Streaming (with Ads) and Standard plans top out at 1080p. To unlock 4K streaming, you'll need to upgrade to the Premium Plan.

Here are the current Netflix US plans and their prices:

• Standard with ads: $7.99 per month (No 4K)
• Standard: $17.99 per month (No 4K)
• Premium: $24.99 per month (4K streaming)

Do you have the right equipment for 4K?

To fully immerse yourself in the 4K experience, your hardware must be up to the task. Your monitor or smart TV should be capable of displaying a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160). If you're using an external streaming device, such as a Fire Stick or an Apple TV, it must support 4K streaming as well. Additionally, the cables connecting your device to your TV need to handle the signal. Netflix recommends using a Premium High Speed HDMI or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for 4K streaming.

Budget 4K Streaming Device

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

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HDMI for 4K

Belkin HDMI 2.1 Ultra High Speed

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Best 4K TV

LG 65" Class OLED evo C4

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Best 4K Monitor (for gaming too)

Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDP

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Check your playback settings

Once you've confirmed your plan and equipment, the next step is adjusting your playback settings. Log into your Netflix account on your PC, click on your profile icon, and select 'Manage Profiles'. Navigate to the specific account you want to use for 4K streaming, scroll down to 'Playback Settings', and set it to 'High'. This adjustment will ensure you're streaming in 4K when available.

However, keep in mind that choosing 'High' may lead to more buffering or freezing if your internet connection isn't robust enough. Also, be cautious when streaming over mobile data, as 4K streaming consumes significantly more data, potentially exhausting your data limit faster.

Are There Other Ways to Watch Netflix Movies and Shows in 4K?

While streaming is the go-to method for most, physical media still offers a way to enjoy Netflix content in 4K. The resurgence of Blu-Ray has brought select titles like Daredevil, Arcane, The Crown, Stranger Things, and Wednesday to physical formats. In an era where shows can vanish from streaming platforms overnight, owning a physical copy ensures you can enjoy your favorites indefinitely—until disc drives become obsolete, that is.

Arcane: League of Legends - Season One - Limited Edition Steelbook 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray [4K UHD]

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