When you pay for Netflix’s most expensive plan, you want to get the highest streaming quality no matter where you watch, and I don’t blame you.
However, you may be surprised to find out that the quality of your video and audio is not only dependent on your plan and connection, but also the device you use, as well as the browser. Keep reading to find out how to get the highest quality when streaming Netflix on a Chromebook.
In Short
Use the Chrome browser, it supports up to 1080p video, and that’s as good as it gets on a Chromebook.
Chromebooks don’t support 4K HDR playback
First off, it’s time for the bad news, unfortunately, Chromebooks don’t support 4K HDR playback. Instead, 1080p video quality is the best you’re going to get as a Chromebook user.
READ: Get the best resolution for Netflix on your PC
According to the Netflix support page, streaming with the Chrome browser on a Chromebook supports up to 1080p. What about running the Android Netflix app on a Chromebook? I’m glad you asked, turns out, that’s even worse, with a maximum resolution of 480p.
Now, it is possible to get 1080p and even HDR when using the Android app, but that is limited to Netflix certified Android tablets and phones, which Chromebooks are not.
Regardless, even with a maximum resolution of 480p, there is a benefit to using the Netflix app on Chromebooks, offline watching. If you’re out and about, unsure whether there is going to be a stable connection or not, then you’re going to want to download some videos, and the Netflix app is the only way that’s happening.
It’s not all bad news
I’m sure this is disappointing to hear if you pay for Netflix’s top tier plan. However, take solace in the knowledge that there are very few Chromebooks out there with a 4K display.
Also, be glad that Chrome even supports 1080p on Chromebooks, because it is limited to 720p on Windows devices. However, at least Windows users have the option to watch in 4K HDR with surround sound, you can find out how with our guide.
