The biggest game of the year in pro football is happening in Miami on Sunday, when San Francisco takes on Kansas City. For the first time, the big game will be broadcast in 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR).
We checked in with Best Buy In-Home Advisor J.R. Woodward, from St. Louis, for some tips on getting the most out of your viewing experience. In-Home Advisors are seasoned experts who will come to your home for a free consultation and provide you with technology solutions, indoors and outside.
“My job is to use technology to provide solutions and be a guide who makes sure everything comes together the way our customers want it to,” J.R. said.
A 4K TV
If you don’t have a TV with a 4K display, you’re going to need one. There are many options out there for different price points, and Best Buy has some great TV deals now.
“TVs have gotten bigger than ever and have come down in price so much compared to what they used to be,” J.R. said. “There are models that can fit any space when it comes to size, viewing angle, quality and more.”
4K streaming service
If you’re a cord cutter, you’re in luck. The only way to watch the game in true 4K HDR is through the Fox Sports app using an Amazon Fire Stick 4K. The app is broadcasting the big game for free without a subscription. All you’ll need to do is download the app to your 4K-compatible streaming device or smart TV and you can watch in 4K, provided you have enough internet speed (more on that below).
“There are other streaming media players that will broadcast in 4K upscale or 4K Standard Dynamic Range,” J.R. said. “Those are great options, but if you have the ability, get on the Fox Sports app through the 4K Fire TV stick.”
High-speed internet
Streaming in 4K requires much faster internet than regular HD broadcasts. It’s recommended to have speeds of at least 25 megabits per second (Mbps) to stream in 4K.
“Even if you are paying for high-speed internet, make sure your router and modem reach your devices and are operating properly so you don’t miss a down due to poor network connection,” J.R. said.
Want to check your speed? You can use the Best Buy Home app to test your Wi-Fi speed around your home with your smartphone.
Immersive audio
From the action on the field to the halftime show to the commercials, being able to hear everything is an important part of the experience.
“Audio is the one thing people always forget to consider. It makes all the difference,” said J.R.
From a soundbar to a home theater surround sound setup, there is an audio solution to fit any room in your house.
For experts you can trust, schedule a free in-home consultation with a Best Buy In-Home Advisor today. Looking for inspiration? See completed projects from our expert In-Home Advisors.