How to Stream 4K on a 1080p Display with Netflix UHD Plan on PC

Forcing 4K streaming on a 1080p display has become more achievable with the right setup and configuration. Whether you have an older monitor or want to test the waters with just a PC, this guide will help you achieve a 4K streaming experience with a Netflix UHD plan. Follow these steps to optimize your setup for an immersive viewing experience.

Check Your Hardware and Software Requirements

Before you begin:

Display: Ensure your monitor or TV supports 4K resolution. Graphics Card: Verify that your graphics card is capable of outputting 4K. Browser: Use a compatible browser. As of August 2023, Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome support 4K streaming on Netflix.

Install the Required Software

Ensure you have the latest versions of the following:

Microsoft Edge: The most straightforward browser for streaming Netflix in 4K. Make sure you have the latest version installed. Windows 10/11: Ensure you are on the latest version of Windows.

Set Up Your Display Settings

1. Right-click on your desktop and select Display settings.

2. Ensure your display is set to 1080p resolution.

3. Under Scale and layout, set the scaling to 100%.

Configure Netflix Settings

1. Log in to your Netflix account.

2. Go to Account settings.

3. Under Profile Parental Controls, select your profile.

4. Click on Playback settings and ensure that High is selected for video quality.

Force 4K Streaming

1. Open Microsoft Edge or another compatible browser.

2. Type edge://flags/enable-web-annotations in the address bar to enable the flag if available to optimize streaming.

3. Stream a title that is available in 4K, such as certain Netflix Originals.

Use a 4K Capable Device

If your PC cannot output 4K, consider using a 4K-capable streaming device like a 4K Streaming Device:

4K Roku Apple TV 4K Chromecast Ultra

Connect this device to a 4K display for an even better experience.

Check Your Internet Connection

Ensure your internet speed is at least 25 Mbps for 4K streaming. A slower connection may not support 4K content.

Notes

Even if your display is set to 1080p, streaming services may still output in 4K if they detect that the hardware supports it. Some browsers might limit the ability to stream in 4K unless specific settings or extensions are enabled.

Conclusion

While you can set your resolution to 1080p, Netflix will automatically optimize the stream based on your capabilities. For a true 4K experience, using a 4K display is recommended.