Sonarr Prefer X265 Jun 2026

Which (v3 or v4) are you currently running?

: x265 encoding and decoding require more processing power compared to x264. This could impact the performance of your server or computer, especially during downloads and playback.

Before you convert your entire library, ensure your playback devices (Plex clients, smart TVs, or tablets) support HEVC hardware decoding

To make Sonarr prioritize x265 while still allowing x264 as a fallback, follow these steps: 1. Create the Custom Format Navigate to . Add a new format named "x265/HEVC" . sonarr prefer x265

Also set in Sonarr:

existing x264 files to x265 when a matching release becomes available.

| Device | x265 playback | Notes | |---------------------------|---------------|-------| | PC (VLC, MPV, MPC-HC) | ✅ Perfect | Software decode works fine | | NVIDIA Shield / Apple TV | ✅ Perfect | Hardware decode | | Plex / Jellyfin direct stream | ✅ | Works if client supports HEVC | | Plex / Jellyfin | ⚠️ Heavy | CPU transcoding x265 → h264 is very slow | | Old laptop (pre-2015) | ❌ Stutters | No hardware decode | | Roku / Fire Stick (basic) | ⚠️ Some work | Newer models OK | | Browser (Chrome/Safari) | ⚠️ Partial | Safari good; Chrome needs GPU support | Which (v3 or v4) are you currently running

To make Sonarr prefer (HEVC) releases while still allowing it to fall back to other formats, you should use Custom Formats with a positive scoring system. This allows Sonarr to rank releases and automatically upgrade an existing file if a better-scored x265 version appears. Core Implementation Steps

To prefer x265 but fall back to x264 when unavailable, use the Preferred words method with positive scores (e.g., 100 ), or create a Custom Format with a positive score. This will make Sonarr choose x265 releases when available but still accept x264 releases when they are the only option.

Because the files are smaller, they require less bitrate to stream. This makes x265 ideal for remote streaming via Plex, Jellyfin, or Emby, as it reduces buffering over limited internet upload connections. 3. The Playback Catch: Client Compatibility Before you convert your entire library, ensure your

can monitor your folders and convert older x264 files to x265 automatically, as discussed by users on Regex strings

If you want to fine-tune this automated setup further, tell me: Are you using ? Do you use public torrents, private trackers, or Usenet ?

: Not all devices support x265 natively, which might affect playback on certain devices. Ensure your playback devices support x265 or consider transcoding options.