HDX is a hi-definition (HD) format developed by Vudu that allows streaming video at a better quality than HD streams from other providers like Amazon Instant Video, Google Play and iTunes. HDX video is streamed at 1080p and 24 frames per second. While Amazon, Google, Apple and Vudu HD all deliver HD streams at 1080p resolution, HDX offers better video quality because:

Caveats and Disadvantages

The biggest disadvantage of HDX is the amount of time it takes to download a full-length movie, if downloading it as opposed to streaming. For streaming, a fast broadband Internet connection is required, with bandwidth of over 4.5mbps for HDX, and over 2.25mbps for regular HD. Vudu offers a speed test page where users can check their Internet connection bandwidth, which can vary by day of week and time of day.

Another caveat is device capabilities. If your TV is only capable of 720p, or if the display cannot handle 24 frames per second, then you will not notice any difference in quality between the HDX and HD versions of the same video. If your display can't accept 1080p/24 at all, you may have to choose the 1080i output instead.[2]

Vudu's FAQ page also lists bandwidth and system requirements to watch videos in HD and HDX.

HDX vs UHD

A comparison of common digital video resolutions
A comparison of common digital video resolutions

Vudu also offers a UHD — aka Ultra HD or 4K — format that offers even better video quality, a much higher resolution (to the order of 4,000 pixels), Dolby Vision (basically Dolby's version of HDR), and commercial theater grade Dolby Atmos surround sound.[3]

Some users have reported that there is no noticeable difference in the video quality of UHD vs. HDX on Vudu streams. However, that is because not all devices are capable of streaming Vudu's UHD content. This infographic shows what devices currently support Dolby Vision (for video) and Dolby Atmos (for audio), and are therefore capable of playing 4K UHD content from Vudu.

References

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"HD vs HDX on Vudu." Diffen.com. Diffen LLC, n.d. Web. 28 Mar 2024. < >