How to Stream Netflix in 4K

If you have access to a TV that is compatible with Ultra High Definition (Ultra HD or 4K), then you now have access to watching your favorite shows and movies in the best quality possible. And if you’re a fan of Netflix, then these two things come together naturally. If you subscribe to Netflix, or want to get it now that you have the perfect TV for it, we’ve got you covered.

We’ll answer all of these questions, including:

What is 4K or Ultra HD?
What do you need to stream Netflix in 4K?
Does streaming Netflix in 4k cost more money?
Which TVs support Ultra HD with Netflix?
Can I stream Netflix in 4k on my computer?
Which Netflix programs are available in 4K?
What alternatives to streaming Netflix in 4K are there?

Read on to learn all about streaming Netflix in 4K!

What is 4K or Ultra HD?

4K Ultra High Definition (HD) is a picture resolution for television of 3840 pixels x 2160 lines – an aspect ratio 16:9. It is currently one of the best resolutions available on the consumer market, and provides quality picture that enhances the quality of your viewing experience and sharpens the image.

If you’re into watching shows and movies on Netflix.com, then streaming in 4K might make your experience much better. Essentially, it will improve the quality of your program, and appear clearer and with more detail than in standard definition.

What do you need to stream Netflix in 4K?

A compatible TV – This is the first thing you’ll need to make sure you have, as you can’t watch anything in 4K if you don’t have the proper gear for it. When looking for a TV, just make sure it indicates that it’s 4K or Ultra HD compatible before you purchase it. Scroll down to see a list of the current TVs that are compatible with streaming in 4K.
A high-speed Internet connection – Without a reliable high-speed Internet connection, that can run at 25 megabits per second at least, your streaming quality won’t hold up. Without upload/download speeds of 25 mbps, your programs won’t stream properly, so you’d be wasting your money on the fancy TV. In general, you’re spending more money than you need to for the compatible devices and the proper subscription to Netflix, so make sure your Internet can handle it before committing.
It’s also helpful to use an Ethernet connection if that’s available to you, rather than relying on Wi-Fi. Your Netflix will stream much better this way, and is much less likely to drop the HD quality than if you’re always streaming using a Wi-Fi connection.
A subscription to Netflix that supports Ultra HD – The next step is to make sure you have created a Netflix account and have signed up. Though you may already have this, you actually need a specific type of Netflix plan to access the 4K programming. You must pay for the Premium plan, which costs $12 per month, instead of the Basic ($8) or Standard ($10) plans. This will give you access to all of the enhanced programs on Netflix.
Knowledge of available programming – Once you’ve taken all these other steps, all you have to do is find out which of the programs on Netflix can stream in 4K. You can find this by searching, or simply by browsing through things you like. Scroll down to our section on the programs on Netflix available in 4K to learn more.

Does streaming Netflix in 4K cost extra?

Streaming Netflix in 4K costs a little more money, as you need to pay for the Premium plan, which costs $12/month, while the Basic plan costs only $8/month for standard definition streaming. With the most expensive plan, you get access to HD and Ultra HD streaming, and can watch on 4 screens at a time.

Streaming Netflix in Ultra HD may also increase your Internet data charges, if you don’t use a Wi-Fi or Ethernet Internet connection. Streaming in better quality, especially in 4K increases the amount of Internet data you must use to render the enhanced picture, so be sure not to stream using data for too long, or you may run up a hefty Internet bill for the month. To learn more, be sure to check out our article on Netflix data usage.

Which TVs support Ultra HD with Netflix?

Samsung: TV, Blu-ray
LG TV: TV, Blu-ray, set-top box
Sony: TV, Blu-ray
Panasonic: TV, Blu-ray
Philips: TV, Blu-ray
Toshiba: TV, Blu-ray
Insignia: TV, Blu-ray
Sharp: TV, Blu-ray
Roku: TV
Hisense: TV, media player
Vizio: TV, Blu-ray
Tatung: TV
Vestel: TV
TCL: TV

Can I stream Netflix in 4K on my computer?

It is possible to stream Netflix in 4K on a computer, but currently, the only compatible software is the Microsoft Edge Internet browser, or the Windows 10 Netflix app. No other programs allow for true 4K streaming, though this is likely to change in the future as more software allows for 4K compatibility.

Which Netflix programs are available in 4K?

To find Netflix shows in 4K, use Netflix search and search either “4K” or “Ultra HD” on any of your devices. The search will return all 4K compatible results. Note that even though a show may be available in 4K now, earlier seasons may not be, though these will still appear in the search results.

You can also determine if a program is available in 4K when browsing Netflix, simply from looking at the title screen of any program. If the show or movie is available in 4K/Ultra HD, you will see this image:

Alternatives to streaming Netflix in 4K

Amazon Prime Instant Video – Get access to a library of great programs including Amazon originals with Amazon Prime Instant Video. Some great popular titles not available on other streaming services can be found here.
UltraFlix – UltraFlix claims to have the “world’s largest library of 4K Ultra HD content,” and is available on multiple platforms.
Vudu – Vudu focuses on offering you the newest content you want right away, allowing you to watch content the same day as the DVD release – or even sooner.

Now you’re all set to start streaming Netflix in 4K, and getting the best quality possible for your favorite shows and movies. If you’re curious to learn more about streaming in 4K on Netflix, check out this Netflix help article. If you want to learn more about Netflix itself and how it all works, or you haven’t signed up yet, be sure to check out our free Netflix course with step-by-step tutorials on how to use it.