Time is right to consider switch to 4K
of 4K content around. A new television will digitally improve standard HD video but you really need 4K movies and shows to make the most of it. The easiest way to get that is by using Netflix which uses 4K and HDR for most of its latest movies and TV series. The other option is to rent or buy 4K movies online or on DVD (which cost about $10 extra than normal DVDs).
You need to be aware that you need the premium Netflix account to get 4K content, which costs $18.49 a month compared to $14.99 for the standard account.
Netflix has more than 100 movies and TV series in 4K so there’s plenty to choose from. Also, all the latest smart TVs have the Netflix app so it’s easy to access.
The other best source for 4K movies is Apple’s iTunes or Google Play. 4K movies on iTunes cost the same as HD movies but you’ll need the latest Apple TV (price from $299) to play them. If you’ve previously bought movies via iTunes, Apple will upgrade them to 4K for free if it’s available.
To watch 4K movies via Google Play you can download the app on some smart TVs but if not available then you’ll need the Chromecast Ultra ($109) streaming device.
You’ll also need to be aware that downloading or streaming 4K content will significantly increase the amount of data you use. That’s fine if you’re already on an unlimited plan, if not then you’ll need to factor in moving to one.
Also, it’s preferable to have fibre (ultrafast broadband) or broadband that allows download speeds of about 25Mbs.
Sky TV, TVNZ and TV3 all only broadcast in high definition and none has announced plans to upgrade. The same applies to streaming services, Neon, Lightbox and Amazon Prime Video.
And if you or someone in your house is a gamer, then you will need one of the latest consoles to get the best out of a 4K television. You’ll need to buy either the Xbox One S, Xbox One X, or PlayStation 4 Pro.
But when you’re weighing up the pros and cons, the price is always a key factor. Prices for 4K televisions have been steadily falling and now only cost a few hundred more than their HD rivals. However, if you want a TV bigger than 50 inches then the prices start to really rise.
Another advantage of 4K sets is as they are now the new standard, there are more models and sizes to choose from.
So, should you buy a 4K television?
If all Kiwi broadcasters and streaming services used 4K, then it’d be an easy decision. A few hundred dollars extra for a much better experience would make it worthwhile.
But due to the limited amount of content, it’s only a definite yes for those who use Netflix nightly.
Most brands are releasing new models now so it’s a good time to start looking. This also means there’s a chance to pick up last year’s model at a discounted price.
For anyone else, it’s still an investment in your viewing future. I hope that once fibre becomes more popular, our broadcasters will all hopefully move to 4K for online movie and TV shows.