YouTube videos are available in various qualities ranging from standard definition (such as 240p and 360p) to high definition (720p or 1080p), and it often depends on the quality of the original uploaded video. For example, if the video was recorded in standard definition, it will not be available in high definition.
By default, the quality setting will be on “Auto” and YouTube will use the highest quality based on your video player size. To manually change video quality, click the gear icon in the bottom right side of the video player, and select your preferred quality.
No matter how fast your Internet connection is, you can customize your video quality settings to make sure you get the best YouTube viewing experience possible.
Never play high-quality video
If you have a slow Internet connection, you can change your settings to not default to the highest quality so that the video loads more quickly:
- Go to your Settings page.
- Select “I have a slow connection. Never play higher-quality video.”
- Click the Save button.
Always play HD on full screen
If you have a strong internet connection, you can change your settings to make sure videos always play in HD qualities when they’re available:
- Go to your Settings page.
- Select “Always play HD on full screen (when available)”
- Click the Save button.
