As the world moves towards higher resolution content, the debate between native 4K and upscaled 4K broadcasts has become a hot topic. While both types of broadcasts offer a high-resolution picture, there are distinct differences between them that can impact overall picture quality.
Native 4K refers to content that was created and broadcast in a 4K resolution, meaning the content was captured using a camera that can produce 4K footage. In contrast, upscaled 4K refers to content that was originally captured in a lower resolution (such as 1080p) and was then digitally enlarged to fit a 4K resolution.
So, does a native 4K broadcast offer a better picture than an upscaled 4K broadcast? The answer is not straightforward and depends on several factors.
One of the primary factors that can impact picture quality is the source material. If the original source material was captured in 4K, a native 4K broadcast will offer a sharper and more detailed picture. The additional detail captured in 4K can be particularly noticeable in large-screen displays or in scenes with intricate details, such as a forest or a city skyline. Upscaled 4K broadcasts, on the other hand, may lack some of the details and sharpness found in native 4K content.
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However, if the original source material was captured in a lower resolution, an upscaled 4K broadcast can still offer improved picture quality. Upscaling technology has advanced significantly in recent years, and many high-end TVs and streaming devices can now upscale content to near-native 4K quality. These devices use advanced algorithms to add pixels and enhance the image quality, resulting in a picture that is significantly sharper and more detailed than the original source material.
Another factor that can impact picture quality is the quality of the upscaling technology. Some devices use basic upscaling algorithms that can result in a picture that appears soft or pixelated. On the other hand, high-end devices use advanced algorithms that can significantly improve picture quality. When comparing native 4K and upscaled 4K broadcasts, it is essential to consider the quality of the upscaling technology being used.
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Finally, the viewing distance can also impact the perceived picture quality. If you are sitting relatively far away from the TV, you may not be able to notice the additional detail in native 4K content. In this case, an upscaled 4K broadcast may offer a comparable viewing experience.
In conclusion, whether a native 4K broadcast offers a better picture than an upscaled 4K broadcast depends on several factors. While native 4K content offers additional detail and sharpness, upscaled 4K content can still offer improved picture quality if the upscaling technology is of high quality. Ultimately, it is up to the viewer to decide which type of broadcast offers the best viewing experience based on their specific viewing setup and preferences.
I’ve been in this field for 23 years and gotta say, there is NEVER a case, that I have ever seen, where an upscaled version was equal to or better than the native version. So, the ChatGPT really is giving an answer when comparing 1080 to an upscaled 4k. 4k native to 4k upscaled, native wins it every time.
How can you create new detail, when upscaling that wasn’t present, in the original? I believe’ it can’t be done. Also With DVR how can you create new brightness levels and a wider color gamut unless you know what the original color and brightness values, are from a non-DVR, 1080 camera, It is my belief, that little is gained from the upscaled process.
DVR should read HDR (High Dynamic Range
While I don’t have a super 4K tv, I have to say that the ESPN native broadcasts on FiOS 1, come in very clear and bright. In basketball arenas, you can recognize people seated in the stands even on long shots. My sets performance on FOX upscale with HDR tends to be dark and murky. I have to do a lot of calibration adjustments to watch it. Recently, the FOX broadcast I received was not in HDR so I only had to brighten the picture. It was clearer than the 720p on the regular hi-def channel. Best results are ESPN.
It seems that the network bean counters are calling the shots. Just a couple of years ago they were touting native 4K and were carrying games in that format. Now suddenly there’s a problem with “bandwidth” and compatibility issues that just cropped up. Peacock promised the Premiere league games (which are produced/carried by Sky Ultra and TNT sports in native 4K in England), to be broadcast this season in native 4K. When they went back on their promise, I dropped my subscription. If more people would do this then we’d see a reversal of their backtracking. I’m now in a neighborhood where I get Xfinity in my HOA dues, (who were also touting native 4K games which seems to be as scarce as hen’s teeth). At least when I paid for YouTube 4K I’d get an NBC Sports 4K EPL game in native 4K and the difference is quite noticeable. It’s the difference of actually being able to read the names on the players jerseys versus not on the upconverted version. The way to change this? Make Noise! Complain to everyone on the chain. Threaten them with a loss of income. Only then will things change.