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The conversion from standard HD to 4K has been exciting for the TV industry. This higher class of definition allows for a more immersive experience from the comfort of your own home. With most smart TVs offering this functionality, finding content optimising the 4K availability is essential. If you are still unsure about upgrading, we have information covering whether buying a 4K TV is worth it in previous articles, which we highly recommend looking through when looking for a new TV.
When 4K was first made available, the development was far ahead of the broadcasting and content created for domestic viewers, leaving a gap in the content available to watch. Whilst many new 4K TVs offered an upscaling facility, having a 4K TV was great, but with more content being created continuously for the format, viewing films and TV shows has never been better. We explore the multiple ways of accessing 4K content and where to find the most immersive experience.
What do you need for 4K?
First and foremost, having a 4K TV is essential to accessing 4K content. Although having a 4K TV alone will not allow you to access the content you desire, it is the most critical element. The following function you need to check is your internet download speeds. 4K content requires much more data to download and stream than standard HD, impacting your internet’s data download speeds. You need a minimum of 16mbps, but the likes of Netflix do recommend 25 Mbps for optimum accessibility. It is easy to check your internet speed, and many providers offer lightning-fast broadband and fibre for little money. If your speeds aren’t quite the required level, speak with your internet provider, and they may provide you with an upgrade for very little.
Finally, your streaming service package will also impact your ability to access 4K content. Many of the streaming services will have packages designed specifically for 4K content. We explore each provider below to help you find the best content for your cheap 4K TVs.
How to Access 4K on Amazon Prime
Unlike Netflix, Prime Video doesn’t always require an upgrade to access 4K films and series whilst offering a lot of additional 4K content through their standard Prime membership. Although not all of their content is in 4K, a quick search for 4K or ultra HD through either voice control or their search bar on your cheap smart TV will showcase all the titles you have access to in 4K.
Some titles may require additional payment, but this isn’t for the 4K capabilities but due to their exclusive status on the platform. Another way to see films available in 4K is by looking for the symbol on the thumbnail of the show or movie. Anything in 4K will showcase either the 4K or UHD symbol in the corner of the thumbnail.
How to Access 4K on Netflix
With Netflix being the most popular streaming service worldwide, it is no surprise that they were one of the first platforms to offer 4K TV. Since 2014, Netflix has provided a great deal of 4K content, but only for its premium packages. For those familiar with the online streaming platform Netflix has several price plans available for their services. Whilst most customers will purchase higher tiered packages due to the multiple user accessibilities, upgrading to their premium package will also allow you to access content in 4k (Ultra HD).
Once you have purchased the premium package, you may have to adjust the settings on your Netflix account. Using a web browser, log in to your Netflix account. Once you have opened up your Netflix account, there will be playback settings. Changing this to high from whichever settings you have it on, all of the available content in 4K will automatically play in high definition.
There is an array of films and series, all available in 4K definition, which changes on a month-by-month basis. Still, Netflix boasts one of the highest amounts of content available in 4K, and we imagine this will only increase as more content becomes available from producers.
How to Access Apple TV in 4K
Unlike Amazon Prime and Netflix, the apple TV+ app is only available on selected Samsung TVs and other portable streaming devices such as the apple tv box and Amazon Fire dongles. So, if you happen to have a cheap Samsung TV, you can still access 4K Apple TV content. However, if you don’t have a Samsung TV, you may consider purchasing an external device if 4K Apple TV content is a priority.
To gain access to apple 4K content, you must have a valid Apple TV subscription. Unlike Netflix, there are no price plans for tiers of definition, but they offer bundles for Apple users who may also use some of their other services.
They offer a vast selection of 4K content, including some live streaming platforms and provide great titles in their library. There are no settings to adjust, so if you have the necessary equipment and subscription, you can instantly access all this high definition.
How to Access 4K on Hulu
Hulu is a platform which offers an array of movies and series for shows usually only obtainable in America. This platform provides the most straightforward access to 4K content with only a subscription and the viable equipment to view their 4K content.
Hulu offers two standard subscription services, the only difference being the ads and content available for download. Though, like with Apple TV+, they also provide an opportunity to bundle several services together for a lower price. There are no settings to change, and you can start viewing 4K content as soon as you access their app.
They have many titles available in 4K, perhaps not as many as the other platforms, but we imagine as the popularity of 4K grows, this streaming service will also provide many more titles.
Getting a 4K TV for Streaming Online 4K Content
With a stock of hundreds of cheap TVs, we will indeed have a device to suit your needs and home. You can order our TVs online or visit our warehouse in person, where we can help you find the perfect 4K TV. All of our smart TVs come with a one-year warranty (unless otherwise stated), providing you with the confidence that your discount TV will offer you the best performance and immersive experience in 4K possible.
