4K TVs have been around for the better part of a decade, yet they still face one major complaint: “there’s barely any 4K content available!” But this year, for the first time ever, the country’s most-watched sporting event will be available in 4K resolution—and many viewers already have everything they’ll need to experience it. Here’s how to watch the big game in 4K this weekend.
First, of course, you’ll need to have a 4K TV. Not certain what resolution your TV is? If you purchased it in the last few years, it’s a good bet that it is indeed a 4K TV. To be sure, you should check the owner’s manual or simply search your TV’s model number on the internet. If your TV is not a 4K TV, then unfortunately that’s where this stops for you (although it could make a good excuse to finally upgrade your TV). If you do have a 4K TV, then you’ll need to have access to a service that will be carrying the big game in 4K, and a device to receive that signal.
The easiest way for most users to get the big game in 4K is with the Fox Sports app. This app is free to download and does not require a subscription, and it should be available on most newer 4K TVs. If your 4K TV does not have built-in smart functions, or you can’t get the app to run for some other reason, you’ll need a separate streaming media player. Fortunately, those can be purchased relatively inexpensively. Devices that can run the app in 4K include The Roku Premiere, Roku Premier Plus, Roku Streaming Stick Plus, and Roku Ultra; Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K; and the Apple TV 4K.
If you’re a cord-cutter, you’ll also need to make sure that your internet service is up to the task. Fox suggests a high-speed internet connection of at least 25 Mbps or higher—around five times faster than what you’d need to stream HD shows. If you ever run into buffering issues when streaming Netflix, your internet may not be fast enough. You can check your internet speed by running a test at Speedtest.net.
Cable and satellite TV subscribers may be able to watch the game in 4K without needing a streaming app or any additional hardware. All of the major pay-TV services—Comcast Xfinity, AT&T’s DirecTV, Altice Optimum, Dish Network, and Verizon Fios—offer 4K video to select customers, but the option may be part of a higher-tier subscription package. In addition to the service, you’ll need to verify that your set-top box can receive a 4K signal. Your best bet is to check with your provider to see if you’re eligible to watch the game in 4K.
If all of your technology passes the test, the only things left to do are to invite some friends over and prepare the requisite spread of party foods. Need some assistance with that last part? We can help there too—head over to last week’s post to read about some of our favorite big game recipes.
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