STREAMING

Can you watch Netflix in HD? This is how you check

Do you watch a lot of Netflix on your smartphone (or tablet), but do you know if you can stream in the best quality? Then take a look at this tips article.

Stream Netflix in high quality...Movies and series look better on a big TV, but sometimes it's also nice to watch on your smartphone (or tablet). For example, if you are on public transport, on the way to your vacation destination by plane, or if the TV at home is busy.

So of course you prefer to watch in the best quality, even if your mobile screen is not very big. Most Netflix movies and series are offered in high quality, but your Android phone must support it. It may seem obvious, but not all devices can also stream Netflix in the highest quality.

-Open the Netflix app on your smartphone or tablet;

-Tap your profile icon in the top right corner and select ‘Application Settings’;

-Scroll down and under 'Diagnostics' choose 'Playback Specifications';

-Check here if you see Widevine L1 or Widevine L3.

This has to do with the Widevine DRM that is in your phone. Simply put, this is software that handles digital rights management for various applications. If your device has Widevine L1 then you are in the right place and you can stream in HD. If you see Widevine L3, your device will not go beyond SD quality.

Also, you must have a Netflix subscription that gives you access to Full HD quality. The cheapest subscription to the streaming service, called 'Basic', only allows you to watch in standard quality. The most expensive subscriptions (Standard and Premium) offer full HD or even 4K quality. So check it out from time to time.

Speaking of the available Netflix subscriptions: for Netflix Basic you pay 7.99 euros per month. As mentioned, you can watch in SD quality and on one device at a time. If you opt for Netflix Standard, you'll pay 11.99 euros a month and watch in full HD. You can also use the service on two devices at the same time.

The most expensive subscription is called Netflix Premium and costs 15.99 euros per month. You also get access to titles in 4K quality, which look even sharper on big screens. You also benefit from HDR support, which ensures the best image quality. You can watch on four devices at the same time.

Netflix is the most popular streaming service in the Netherlands, although competition has not lessened in recent years. You can also subscribe to Disney Plus, HBO Max, Videoland, Viaplay, Amazon Prime Video and SkyShowtime. The range differs by streaming service and the prices are also quite different. So take a look at the streaming services pricing overview to compare all costs.

Android Planet