4K
4K refers to super-sharp display and video technology where the resolution is roughly 4,000 pixels wide. Detail is the whole point of 4K – most of the time, you won’t be able to see the pixels in a 4K display, so everything looks natural and sharp. It’s great for photos, videos and gaming for this reason, but actually it’s superior for just about everything – it’s nicer when text looks smoother on a computer, for example.
The vast majority of the time, 4K refers to a specific resolution of 3840 x 2160 (which is also known as ‘Ultra HD’) – this is the resolution of all 4K TVs and 4K video streams from the likes of Netflix or YouTube. Some cameras record in what’s often known as ‘Cinema 4K’, which is a resolution of 4096 x 2160. You may find that some computer monitors refer to themselves as 4K, and will have a horizontal resolution around 4,000 pixels, but have a different height to the resolutions mentioned above, such as ultra-wide monitors. The width is what makes something 4K or not.
You’ll mostly see 4K referred to in TVs of 40 inches and above, in computer and laptop monitors, on video streaming services, and in video recording on cameras or phones.
Latest about 4K
Best Xbox One X games - what to play on the enhanced console
By Vic Hood, Stephen Lambrechts last updated
Buying Guide Microsoft's 4K HDR games consoles is a beast, and these are the best looking games for it.
Best PS4 Pro games 2024 - get the most out of this enhanced console
By Rob Dwiar last updated
Get the most out of Sony's enhanced console from last gen with one of the best PS4 Pro games.
The best 75-inch TVs 2024
By Al Griffin last updated
Updated The best 75-inch TVs offer a true big-screen experience, with a size befitting the greatest films and the most nail-biting sports matches.
Your next flight could be upgraded with 4K OLED and spatial audio thanks to Panasonic
By Carrie Marshall published
Panasonic's new in-flight entertainment systems are rolling out to Icelandair with some more big airlines to follow.
Best TV in Australia for 2024: the top screens for every budget
By Max Langridge last updated
The best TVs you can buy in 2024, from great budget bargains through to premium OLEDs
LG’s 32-inch OLED monitor could be the perfect screen for many gamers for a couple of reasons – and we now know the price
By Darren Allan published
A monitor that can switch between high frame rate (1080p) competitive gaming and glorious 4K for single player.
Should I play at 4K or 1080p on PS5 and Xbox Series X?
By Rob Dwiar published
We’re comparing playing at 4K and 1080p on PS5 and Xbox Series X, helping you choose between each setting.
Kayo Sports is (finally) getting 4K, but only if you’re willing to pay more
By Max Langridge published
Kayo Sports has announced it will finally be introducing 4K content to its service, but a price increase comes at the same time.
Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox
Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team.