As more and more individuals invest in 4K TVs and devices more internet streaming services are adopting the capability. Hailed as one of the best live TV streaming services, is DIRECTV Stream also compatible with 4K content? This article will also look at what DIRECTV Stream has to offer in the 4K platform.
What is 4K?
It will first be necessary to clarify what is meant by the term 4K before considering if DIRECTV Stream provides it. 4K which can be called Ultra HD or UHD means a video stream with a resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. This is around 4,000 pixels horizontally, whence the name ‘4K’.
4K content is even more detailed than full HD video and has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This feature leads to a higher resolution of an image, meaning more clarity and details are provided. 4K TVs and screens can maximize this amount of detail to give the best viewing experience possible.
Current 4k content accessible on streaming services
4K content was initially available only through 4K Blu-ray discs and downloads since its availability was quite restricted. However, as internet connection speeds have increased and thus enabled higher bandwidth streaming in conjunction with the decline in the cost of 4K production more and more over-the-top streaming services are starting to roll out support for 4K streaming.
Currently, both Netflix and Amazon Prime Video offer a great number of 4K movies and TV series in their streaming services. Other services such as YouTube, Vudu, and Apple TV+ are also getting on board with more 4K as well. Even broadcasters of live events have followed suit as well as satellite television providers.
Of all the available packages of DIRECTV, which of them comes with 4K options?
Now to get back to the initial question – is it possible to watch TV shows and movies in 4K on DIRECTV Stream? The answer is yes...The use of source code as a tangible asset is acceptable with a few exceptions as illustrated in this paper.
DIRECTV Stream offers 4K HDR at this time through the CHOICE and above packages. Some of the top channels that are available in 4K include NBC, Fox Sports, ESPN, and FX among others. Netflix also has on-demand 4K options if you authenticate through DIRECTV Stream as well.
Therefore if you are a subscriber to CHOICE or ULTIMATE through DIRECTV Stream, then you will be able to watch programming in 4K if available from those networks. The packages such as ENTERTAINMENT and above will offer high definition but not 4K.
Supported Devices
Besides, to watch content in the 4K quality, one requires an eligible DIRECTV Stream package for 4K streaming and a supported 4K device. It works with Apple TV 4K, Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K, Google Chromecast Ultra, and Roku Streaming Players, provided the devices support 4K.
Your 4K television must also support High Dynamic Range or HDR for short. Therefore, before moving to 4K with DIRECTV Stream, be sure that the package, the streaming device, the internet speeds, and the TV itself get a green light first.
Is DIRECTV Stream the Best Option for 4K?
DIRECTV Stream may make it easier to get 4K for live sports and other programs, yet, there are issues about the channel availability and some limitations about the compatible hardware. YouTube TV might have more than 4K channels as competition for example. Netflix and other streaming services offer a way greater on-demand library of 4K movies and shows without the strings attached to the DIRECTV.
If you want live event coverage from ESPN, Fox, and NBC in 4K then it makes sense to go in for the DIRECTV. However, consumers who are specifically interested in cord-cutting to obtain the most amount of on-demand 4K UHD material may wish to consider all their available choices for the best value.
Conclusion
However, what is good about DIRECTV Stream is that it offers a way to stream 4K videos. If you are subscribed to one of the higher tier packages with programming in 4K, and you have a compatible device and 4K television, you can watch selected live sporting events, shows, and movies in Ultra HD resolution. Still, the 4K catalog is not as vast as the catalog of some streaming competitors. Assess your personal use to determine whether or not DIRECTV serves all your 4K needs or if you need a service that offers more.
Transform your viewing experience with DirecTV! Call us today at +1 855-213-2250 to explore our plans and find the perfect package for you. Our experts are ready to assist you and get you set up with top-notch entertainment. Don’t wait—contact us now!
