How to Upgrade to 4K Streaming on Netflix: A Guide

Modern streaming platforms like Netflix and Max have revolutionized how we consume entertainment, catering to both reality TV aficionados and cinephiles who frequent Letterboxd. Now, you can enjoy the latest movies and shows from the comfort of your home, avoiding any potential 'Chicken Jockey' mishaps on the way to the theater. If you're eager to experience cinematic quality without leaving your couch, our guide to streaming Netflix in 4K is here to help.

How to Stream Netflix in 4K

Before diving into the world of 4K streaming, it's crucial to check your Netflix subscription plan. Not all plans support 4K streaming; the Streaming (with Ads) and Standard plans cap at 1080p. Only the Premium Plan offers 4K streaming.

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?

The next step in your 4K streaming journey is ensuring your hardware can handle it. Your monitor or smart TV must support a resolution of 3840 x 2160. If you're using external streaming devices like a Fire Stick or Apple TV, they must also support 4K. Additionally, the cables connecting these devices to your TV should be up to the task. Netflix recommends using a Premium High Speed HDMI or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for 4K streaming.

Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

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Belkin HDMI 2.1 Ultra High Speed

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Check your playback settings

Once you've confirmed your subscription and equipment, adjust your playback settings. Log into your Netflix account on a 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 setting will enable 4K streaming for content that supports it.

Keep in mind, choosing 'High' might lead to more buffering or freezing if your internet connection isn't robust enough. Also, if you're streaming over mobile data, remember that 4K streaming consumes more data, potentially causing you to reach your data limit faster.

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

While streaming is king, physical media still holds its ground. The Blu-Ray revival means some popular titles are now available in physical formats, such as Blu-Ray editions of original shows like Daredevil, Arcane, The Crown, Stranger Things, and Wednesday. These can be challenging to find but offer a way to own your favorite shows indefinitely, especially valuable in an era where content can vanish from streaming platforms overnight.

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

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