Hulu Auto-Quality Settings Are Quietly Downgrading Your Picture. Here’s Why

Let’s start with the basics of Hulu’s video quality options. As it stands, you can watch Hulu in five different resolutions: standard definition, 720p, 1080p, 4K Ultra HD, and 60fps high definition. Which of these you get depends on several factors, including the device you’re streaming from, the content you’re watching, and the available bandwidth. Every time you turn on Hulu, the video quality of your program naturally depends on both what you’re watching and the device you’re using.

Typically, Hulu will identify programming that is available in higher resolution via a badge on the “Description” tab of the content, including 4K Ultra HD, HDR, and 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound. But the video quality badge does not guarantee that you will be watching this content in the highest possible resolution. For example, the streamer hosts an ever-growing library of 4K programming. However, not all devices and streaming avenues support 4K. For example, Hulu’s website can only stream in standard definition or 720p. Additionally, whether you reach the higher of these two resolutions depends on whether your device is HDCP compliant.

Similar questions remain across materials and device types. Generally, streaming shows, events, and movies through the Hulu app will provide better results than through your web browser. However, not all applications are created equal. For example, televisions and gaming consoles can reach higher resolutions than your phone or tablet. Even within those lines, the quality of your stream may depend on brand compatibility.

For example, if you use Hulu for live sports or other television broadcasts, you’ll likely watch in 720p or 1080p. However, the latter of these resolutions can only be accessed through select products, including the fourth-generation Apple TV, Chromecast, Samsung TV, Fire TV, Fire Stick, and some gaming consoles. Other streaming devices, like Rokus, Vizio SmartCast TVs, and Android televisions may only support 720p. To find out where your streaming device falls on these spectrums, visit Hulu’s Help Center.

Your stream quality is determined by the available bandwidth. Like Internet service providers, streamers often manipulate resolution to reduce Internet traffic congestion. Although common, this practice has landed streamers in hot water with both customers and the courts. For example, in 2020, a class action lawsuit claimed that Hulu suppressed web browsing streams to further its proprietary applications. However, allegations like this shouldn’t put you off Hulu, as many competitors have also been roundly criticized for this practice. At this point, some people see it as a necessary evil of the streaming boom.