Many people enjoy watching movies and series from the comfort of their sofas on a big-screen TV. For those on the go, there’s an array of apps available for smartphones and tablets. However, when it comes to unwinding in bed while binge-watching Netflix, many opt for their laptops. Unfortunately, streaming Netflix directly through your browser can lead to various issues.
One common concern is that the visual quality may fall short of what your subscription promises. Luckily, there are several ways to enhance your streaming experience, which we’ll explore below.
Select the Optimal Browser
A frequent issue with Netflix is that certain browsers, like Firefox and Chrome, do not deliver content in optimal quality, despite expectations. On both Windows and Mac systems, using subpar browsers can significantly degrade playback quality.
If you want the best experience, Safari is the recommended choice for streaming Netflix, as it supports resolutions up to 2160p (Ultra HD). Microsoft Edge is also likely to provide better performance for HD content. Therefore, if you have a choice, it’s advisable to stream using either of these browsers.
Add Browser Extensions
For users who prefer other browsers, there are useful extensions available that can effectively “force” playback in Full HD. For instance, Chrome users can explore options like “Netflix Higher Quality” or “Netflix 1080p,” which are also available for Firefox.
Once installed, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Alt + S while in Netflix to bring up a menu for adjusting the streaming bitrate. Should you encounter any issues with the add-on, clearing your browser’s cache may help. However, be aware that these extensions typically won’t work for resolutions higher than Full HD, such as Ultra HD or 4K; for those, a different browser and appropriate Netflix plan are necessary.
Utilize the Netflix App
An alternative option is to switch to the Netflix app, available for download from both the Microsoft Store and Apple’s App Store. However, it’s worth noting that as of this year, Windows app users can no longer download content for offline viewing—a feature that distinguished the app from the web version.
How to Assess Streaming Quality
To quickly check the current video quality on Netflix, you can use a simple keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + Alt + D. This will reveal the current bitrate and additional statistics, including info about the Netflix servers being accessed.