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How can I stream in 4K?

How do I stream 4K on Sardius?

Streaming in 4K is possible on the Sardius platform but does require certain streaming services and specific encoding hardware.

The following Sardius services support 4K streaming:


Can I stream 4K using Sardius Stream?

The maximum resolution Sardius Stream supports is 1080p. 


What codecs are recommended for 4K streaming?

Popular codecs for 4K streaming include:

  • H.264 - While H.264 is widely used for HD streaming, a high bitrate (ABR Stack) is required for the 4K stream to look acceptable. 

  • H.265 / HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) - This is one of the most popular codecs for 4K streaming. This is primarily due to H.265’s ability to compress high-quality video at a lower bitrate than H.264. 

  • AV1 - Much more efficient and smaller than H.265, but very new to the market and has not been fully adopted across multiple CDN’s, browsers or video players.


H.264 offers the most compatibility, while the newer codecs HEVC and AV1 provide better quality at lower bandwidth. We recommend using a multi-codec approach when setting up a 4K stream, allowing for the most compatibility across global devices.


Can I stream 4K using a Makito X4?

Although it is possible with a separate license to use 4K HEVC with a Makito X4, as Sardius Stream presently only supports 1080p distribution this means that using a Makito X4 is not presently a possible solution for 4K workflows. 


Does Sardius offer an encoder that can stream in 4K?

Yes, Sardius recommends the Elemental Live and a variety of Elemental Media Live Anywhere (EML-A) encoders.


What is the difference between an HD bitrate and a 4K bitrate?

4K (3840 x 2160 pixels)/UHD (Ultra High Definition) is four times the size of a 1080 HD resolution. This often means that your 4K bitrate will be at least three to four times larger than HD. For example, to achieve the same quality as a 6Mbps HD stream, your 4K stream would need to be 18-25 Mbps.


Does Sardius’ automation features support 4K streaming?

4K streaming options will be available within our automation in early Q3 2025.


What are some things I should consider when streaming to 4K?

  • Bandwidth - 4K streaming on the Sardius platform will be generated using an on-prem encoder creating its own HLS. For an HD stream, the typical upload speed is 9-10 Mbps. For a 4K stream, the typical upload speed will be 50-60 Mbps (if using H.264). 
  • Codecs - In consideration of the codecs listed above, not all playback devices fully support HEVC and AV1. Consider streaming multiple versions of your service: one in AV1 for modern devices and H.264 for legacy devices, which requires more upload bandwidth.
  • Encoding - Because of the uniqueness of 4K workflows, Sardius recommends customizing your 4K solution to meet the needs and device demographics of your audience. This could require a mix of codecs and dedicating bandwidth, but it also means selecting the right encoder. Sardius recommends a physical (not software) encoding device that can produce an Adaptive Bitrate HLS solution to meet your workflow demands. 
  • Storage and Costs - Streaming in higher resolutions and higher bitrates can have an impact on your storage and bandwidth minutes. Typically, those who stream in 4K will use approximately 4 times the amount of storage and bandwidth consumption compared to those who just stream in HD.


How can I learn more about or get started streaming in 4K?

To get started, contact your Client Success Manager to learn more about 4K streaming.