Now that5G network coverageis spreading across the U.S. at a rapid rate, it’s time to start talking about potential5G use casesthat will make it worthwhile for the average consumer. So we’re digging into5G technologyand asking one of the most important questions: Can you stream Netflix in 4K with 5G?
In theory, the answer to that question is yes. In practice, we probably aren’t quite there yet.5G is faster than 4Gin some areas of the U.S., offering higher download speeds and a more consistent connection. However, it’s unlikely that you’d be able to stream Netflix in 4K with 5G right now. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be possible in the future.
Limits on streaming quality
The fact that 5G isn’t powerful enough to handle 4K streaming just yet isn’t the only hurdle here. Somemajor 5G carrierscompress and limit streaming video quality on some plans, making it currently impossible to get anything beyond 1080p on your mobile device. So if 4K streaming is something you really want, just make sure you understand the limits of your phone plan before you hop on the 5G bandwagon.
Another factor you have to take into consideration here is whether or not Netflix is even serving up4K contentto your devices.
How to tell if you’re getting Netflix in 4K
Did you know that not all Netflix plans offer the same streaming quality? If you think you are notgetting Netflix in 4K, the first thing you need to do is go to the source and check your plan. If you’re on the most basic plan, you’ll be stuck in an HD-less void. The standard plan, which most folks probably have, supports HD streaming at 1080p, but not 4K
So if you want 4K Ultra HD from Netflix, the first thing you need to do is get yourself on the Premium plan — which is the only option that offers that level of quality.
Check your settings
If you have the premium plan and still aren’t getting Netflix in 4K, the next thing you’re able to do is head to your playback settings and check what your data usages are set to. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each one means:
