HDR (High Dynamic Range) - Frequently Asked Questions
IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.
What is HDR and why is it better than SDR?
High Dynamic Range (HDR) is a video signal format that delivers a wider range of brightness and colour compared to the Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) format, which is a specification used by traditional HDTVs.
HDR-enabled content played on an HDR-compatible TV produces a noticeably fuller, richer and more realistic image compared to SDR/older HDTV technologies. Black levels appear much deeper and retain fine details while the colour spectrum is broader and closer to what the human eye sees naturally.
Which Sony TVs support HDR?
To experience HDR, you'll need an HDR-compatible TV and HDR-compatible content.
To check if your TV is HDR-compatible, please visit your TV model's "Specifications" page on Sony's support website. Most Sony TVs are HDR-compatible, and all Sony Android/Google TVs are.
Alternatively, check your TV box for the 4K HDR or 8K HDR icons.
How to watch HDR content?
Your HDR-compatible TV should automatically display HDR-compatible content. Make sure your TV is updated to the latest software version.
If you're watching HDR content from HDMI devices, you must change the HDMI signal format setting:
- Press the HOME button on the remote control.
- Select Settings.
- Select External inputs in the TV category.
- Select HDMI signal format and set it to Enhanced format (or a different format depending on your needs, e.g., enhanced Dolby or enhanced VRR).
What apps/devices support HDR content?
Various apps and devices support HDR content. Here are a few examples:
- Internet Streaming: Apps such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video or YouTube. (The availability of this content depends on the country/region.)
- 4K UHD Blu-ray Disc Players.
- PS4/PS4 Pro/PS5 and other consoles.
Do you know these HDR-related terms?
HLG (Hybrid Log-gamma)
HLG, as the name suggests, is a "hybrid" format that combines SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) and HDR (High Dynamic Range) images into one video signal. HLG enables the output of HDR images similar to HDR10 and Dolby Vision. It can also express pictures with well-balanced brightness in TVs using SDR.
HDR10
HDR10 is an HDR format used with Ultra HD Blu-ray that produces a high contrast with a wide colour and brightness range. It's the most widespread HDR format, supported by various companies, streaming services and electronic devices.
Dolby Vision
Dolby Vision is an HDR technology standard developed by Dolby for high dynamic range video. Dolby Vision uses dynamic metadata, which means it can optimise the picture quality depending on what you're watching. Dolby Vision brings scenes to life with striking highlights, deeper darks and vibrant colours, creating a cinematic experience in your home.
Does my TV support 4K or HDR?
What is 4K/Ultra HD (UHD) resolution?
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