How To Watch Netflix 4K HDR Videos On Mac In macOS Big Sur

Netflix 4K HDR Video Streaming in macOS Big Sur

Netflix 4K HDR Video Streaming in macOS Big Sur


One of the new features coming with macOS 11 Big Sur is HDR video support. This allows Netflix users to watch their favorite TV Shows and Movies in 4K HDR quality for the first time ever on a Mac.

Netflix 4K HDR Streaming Requirements

According to a Netflix support document, to be able to play videos in 4K HDR quality from Netflix, you need to update to macOS Big Sur and own a Mac that packs Apple’s T2 Security chip. This particular component comes with hardware acceleration that enables Ultra HD streaming, without making any compromises.

In addition to this, the monitor used to output the Ultra HD stream has to be compatible with the 60Hz 4K display rate with a HDCP 2.2 connection. This means that Netflix 4K HDR streaming will be available only for those the own a Mac manufactured in 2018 or newer.

You also need the recently released Safari 14 web browser to stream Netflix Ultra HD movies, as well as a strong internet connection speed of at least 25 MB/s.

Fact: Of course that on top of all this you need a Netflix plan that offers the Ultra HD streaming option.

How To Watch Netflix Ultra HD Streaming

1. Open Safari on your macOS 11 Big Sur device.
2. Browse for Netflix and select the movie that you want to watch.
3. Make sure that streaming quality set to Auto or High.

Macs Compatible With Netflix 4k HDR

The models listed below are equipped with Apple’s T2 Security Chip and are able to stream Netflix in Ultra HD after updating to macOS Big Sur:

  • Mac mini introduced in 2018
  • MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later
  • MacBook Pro introduced in 2018 or later
  • Mac Pro introduced in 2019
  • iMac Pro
  • iMac introduced in 2020

Mac Requirements For Netflix HDR

HDR Netflix streaming is already available for Mac computer as long as the following requirements are met:

  • macOS Catalina 10.15.4 or newer.
  • a Mac computer which packs a HDR compatible display.
  • Important: The High Dynamic Range checkbox has to be enabled in System Preferences -> Display.
  • Tip: If you’re using a cable to connect your Mac computer to an external display, the adapter must support HDR.

Are you looking for Netflix Ultra HD streaming on your Mac computer? Let us know with the help of the comments section available below.

Important: macOS Big Sur is expected to roll anytime this month. Bookmark us for more tips and tricks!

Related: You aren’t a Netflix subscriber yet? Here is how to test out the service and watch Netflix free on your Mac.