Today, 4K TVs are more accessible than ever. At Currys, we have a huge range of 4K TVs to suit every budget. But despite the affordable price, finding quality 4K shows and movies isn’t always easy. That’s because not everything is available to view in the high-resolution 4K format. But once you know where to look, you’ll never turn back.
Don’t waste your time hunting for the best 4K content, we’ve done all the hard work for you. We’ve scoured the web searching for the best sources of 4K and have gathered them together here in this handy guide – for your ease.
What is 4K content?
A 4K TV has 3,840 horizontal pixels and 2,160 vertical pixels. In total that’s more than 8 million pixels! But what does this mean for your viewing? Well, the higher the pixels, the better the picture quality. And 4K TVs have roughly four times more pixels than traditional HD TVs. This results in more vivid colours and much more detailed watching.
How can you watch 4K content?
From streaming and Blu-ray players to live broadcasts and sporting events, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your shiny 4K TV.
4K on BBC and BBC iPlayer
Traditional TV might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the ultra-HD viewing that is 4K. Especially not BBC. But recently, the BBC has stepped up its viewing game with 4K broadcasts of major sporting events like the Euros and Wimbledon Championships.
BBC iPlayer gets a slice of the action too. You can stream lots of your favourite shows in stunning 4K – including documentaries by David Attenborough like *Dynasties *and Planet Earth, as well as nail-biting dramas like His Dark Materials and Vigil.
4K on Sky and Virgin Media
Searching for a set-top box that comes with a huge 4K offering? Look no further. With Sky Q, you’ll find plenty of 4K content to view – including blockbuster movies, documentaries, TV box sets and sports (more on this later).
The same goes for Virgin Media TV customers. A V6 box even comes with a dedicated Ultra HD channel showing everything from live concerts and stand-up routines to TV dramas like House of Cards.
With Sky and Virgin Media, you’ll also be able to stream UHD and 4K content from Netflix, YouTube, and BT Sport.
Sports and 4K
Sign up for the BT Sport Ultimate UHD channel and you won’t regret it. You’ll be able to see every shot and every save in ultra-HD – not to mention every single blade of grass, too. Football fans can sit back and enjoy over 120 games shown in 4K. Watch the Premier League as it was meant to be seen and get access to the best football Europe has to offer as well.
What can you stream in 4K?
4K content on Netflix
When it comes to streaming 4K, Netflix is arguably at the front of the pack. From the latest movies – think The Adam Project and Don’t Look Up – and more TV than you can watch (metaphorically, of course). Netflix perhaps has the biggest range of shows available in 4K, including Our Planet, The Witcher and the latest series of Stranger Things.
Just so you know, if you’re planning on watching Netflix in 4K, you'll need to sign up to its Premium subscription. With it, you can also watch on 4 screens at once, play unlimited mobile games, and download on more devices. At the time of writing, it’ll cost you £15.99 per month.
4K content on Amazon Prime
Amazon’s not far behind when it comes to 4K. And unlike Netflix’s slightly pricier Premium subscription, it comes included as standard with Amazon Prime (just £7.99 a month). 4K TV shows include *The Boys, Reacher and The Grand Tour *with Richard Hammond, Jeremy Clarkson, and James May.
4K content on Disney+
When Disney+ burst onto the scene and onto your screens, it offered 4K content from the get-go. For the same price as an Amazon Prime subscription, Disney+ offers hundreds of 4K shows and movies. Expect to see most new content 4K – including the Star Wars spinoff *The Mandalorian, as well as all the latest Marvel shows and movies like WandaVision, Moonknight and Ms Marvel. *Spend some time digging around, and you’ll find some Disney classics in 4K, too.
Can you watch 4K with Blu-ray?
When it comes to streaming in 4K, you need an extremely fast internet connection. If that’s not possible, the best alternative is the good old-fashioned disc. In fact, it actually offers better picture and sound quality.
Play them on your game consoles, or on a dedicated Blu-ray player. Either way, you’ll be watching the very best. Not sure what Blu-ray player to go for? Take a look at our huge range of UHD Blu-ray players now.
How to enjoy 4K gaming
Speaking of game consoles, when it comes to 4K gaming, you’ll be blown away by the graphics. Both the new PS5 and Xbox Series X support 4K resolution – as long as you pair it with the right 4K TV. The results? So much more detail and a super-smooth gaming experience. Fancy giving it a try? Find out more about 4k gaming in our handy guide.
Find the perfect TV for watching 4K and UHD content with our TV buying guide. Stuck on which TV to go for? Hop on a video call with our ShopLive service to get some expert advice.
