How to enable HDR on a TV

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To enable HDR (High Dynamic Range) on a TV, ensure that both your TV and the source device (like a gaming console or streaming device) support HDR. Navigate to the TV's settings menu and enable HDR under the picture settings, ensuring the input source is also set to HDR.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before enabling HDR on your TV, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A TV that supports HDR10, Dolby Vision, or HLG formats.
  • •A compatible source device (e.g., PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or a 4K HDR streaming device).
  • •High-speed HDMI cables (HDMI 2.0 or higher) to support HDR content.
  • •Ensure your TV's firmware is updated to the latest version.
  • •Check that the content you are trying to view is HDR compatible.

Method 1: Enable HDR through TV Settings

This method is the most straightforward way to enable HDR directly from your TV settings.
  • •Step 1: Press the 'Home' button on your TV remote to access the main menu.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Settings' (gear icon) and select 'Picture' or 'Display'.
  • •Step 3: Look for 'HDR' or 'HDMI UHD Color' settings and toggle it to 'On'.
  • •Step 4: To verify it worked, play HDR content and check if the HDR logo appears on the screen.
  • •Step 5: If HDR does not activate, ensure the input source is set to the correct HDMI port that supports HDR.

For Windows 11

To enable HDR on Windows 11, follow these steps:
  • •Right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings'.
  • •Scroll down to 'Windows HD Color' and toggle 'Play HDR games and apps' to 'On'.
  • •Ensure your display is set to the correct HDR-capable resolution (e.g., 3840 x 2160).

For Windows 10

To enable HDR on Windows 10, follow these steps:
  • •Right-click on the desktop and select 'Display settings'.
  • •Scroll down to 'Windows HD Color' and toggle 'Play HDR games and apps' to 'On'.
  • •Check that your display settings are set to the appropriate resolution for HDR.

Method 2: Enable HDR through Source Device Settings

If HDR is not working through the TV settings, you may need to enable it on your source device.
  • •Step 1: For gaming consoles, go to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'TV & display options'.
  • •Step 2: Look for 'Video modes' and ensure 'Allow HDR' is checked.
  • •Step 3: For streaming devices, access the device settings and look for 'Video' or 'Display' settings to enable HDR.
  • •Step 4: Verify HDR is working by playing HDR content and checking for the HDR logo.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If HDR is not functioning as expected, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'No HDR signal' - Solution: Ensure the HDMI cable is securely connected and supports HDR.
  • •Issue: HDR content appears washed out - Fix: Check the TV's picture settings and adjust brightness and contrast.
  • •Problem: HDR not available on certain apps - Workaround: Ensure the app is updated and supports HDR playback.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these tips to enhance your HDR experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Win + I - Opens Windows Settings quickly.
  • •Command line: 'dxdiag' - Check if your system supports HDR.
  • •Hidden feature: Game Mode - Activating Game Mode on your TV can reduce input lag when playing HDR games.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best HDR experience, ensure that all components in your setup are HDR compatible and updated.