This article is part of our guide How to Improve Streaming Picture Quality on Your TV.
What is HDR? High Dynamic Range video shows brighter highlights, deeper shadows and richer colours than standard video (SDR). On a good TV the difference can be more striking than the jump from HD to 4K — but only when the content, streaming device and TV all support the same HDR format, and there are several.
What HDR actually changes
Standard dynamic range video was designed around older display technology. HDR video carries more information about brightness and colour, so a capable TV can show:
- Brighter highlights, such as sunlight or reflections, without losing detail.
- More detail in dark areas.
- A wider range of colours, when combined with wide colour gamut.
A TV labelled "HDR" can accept HDR signals, but how impressive the result looks depends on the TV's brightness and contrast capabilities.
The main HDR formats
| Format | Metadata | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HDR10 | Static (one setting for the whole programme) | Open standard; the most widely supported HDR format |
| HDR10+ | Dynamic (adjusts scene by scene) | Royalty-free extension of HDR10; supported by some TV brands |
| Dolby Vision | Dynamic | Proprietary format from Dolby; supported by many TVs and streaming devices |
| HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) | None | Designed for broadcasting; developed by the BBC and NHK; compatible with SDR TVs |
Metadata tells the TV how to display the picture. Static metadata applies one setting to the entire programme; dynamic metadata can adjust scene by scene, which can help TVs with limited brightness.
HDR and live TV
For live broadcasts, HLG is the most relevant format because it was designed for broadcasting and works on both HDR and SDR screens. Many live streams, however, are still in SDR. Whether a stream is in HDR depends entirely on the source.
What you need for HDR streaming
- An HDR stream in a particular format.
- A streaming device and player that support that format.
- A TV that supports the same format on the HDMI port you use.
- An HDMI connection with enough bandwidth; on some TVs you need to enable an enhanced HDMI mode for that port.
If any link in the chain is missing, you get SDR — or, sometimes, a poorly converted HDR picture.
When buying a streaming device, check which HDR formats it supports — see how to choose an Android TV box. On Apple TV, the Match Dynamic Range setting avoids unnecessary HDR conversion; see IPTV on Apple TV.
Fixing common HDR problems
HDR looks washed out or dull
- Check that the TV's enhanced HDMI mode is on for the input.
- Make sure the streaming device is not forcing HDR on all content; many devices have a setting to only switch to HDR when content is HDR ("match dynamic range").
- Use a picture mode designed for HDR, such as Cinema or Filmmaker Mode.
HDR looks too dark
HDR is mastered for dark viewing rooms. In a bright room, increase the TV's backlight or choose a brighter HDR mode.
Black screen when HDR starts
The TV may not support the format or the HDMI connection may not have enough bandwidth. Test with HDR switched off on the device and see our black-screen troubleshooting guide.
Is HDR worth enabling?
On a TV with good brightness and contrast, HDR can look excellent. On entry-level TVs with limited brightness, SDR sometimes looks better. Try the same content both ways if your device allows it. Our guide to improving picture quality covers the other settings that matter.
Frequently asked questions
Is HDR the same as 4K?
No. 4K refers to resolution (number of pixels). HDR refers to brightness and colour range. Content can be 4K without HDR, or HD with HDR, although HDR is most common alongside 4K.
Which HDR format is best?
Dynamic formats (Dolby Vision, HDR10+) can adapt scene by scene, which helps many TVs. In practice, what matters most is which formats your TV and device support, and the quality of the TV itself.
Why does my TV switch modes when HDR content starts?
TVs switch to HDR picture settings automatically when they detect an HDR signal. This is normal.
HDR in practice
HDR adds brightness, contrast and colour range, but only when the stream, device and TV support the same format. Know which formats your equipment supports, enable enhanced HDMI and use an HDR picture mode. For wider picture tips, see improving streaming picture quality.