Sonarr Prefer X265 !exclusive! [ macOS ]

x265 is an open-source implementation of the High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standard, also known as H.265. Released in 2013 as the successor to x264 (H.264), HEVC was designed to double the data compression ratio while maintaining the same level of video quality. In practical terms, x265 requires roughly for the same video quality. For media server operators, this translates directly into significant storage savings and reduced network usage.

: High-definition x265 files are typically 40% to 60% smaller than their x264 counterparts.

To help fine-tune this setup for your server, could you let me know you are running (v3 or v4) and whether your streaming clients require heavy transcoding ? sonarr prefer x265

Sonarr will now automatically target the highest-scoring file available.

Scroll down to the section at the bottom of the profile configuration window. x265 is an open-source implementation of the High

However, Sonarr does not have a simple checkbox for "Prefer x265." Instead, it uses a sophisticated scoring system based on . This guide will teach you how to set that up properly.

Ensure is checked if you want Sonarr to replace existing x264 files with x265 versions when they appear. For media server operators, this translates directly into

While x265 is highly efficient, it demands more processing power to decode. Modern client devices—such as the Apple TV 4K, Nvidia Shield, Chromecast with Google TV, and modern Smart TVs—have built-in hardware decoding for x265, enabling seamless playback. However, if your users watch content via older web browsers or legacy tablets, your media server will have to transcode the video on the fly. Ensure your server's CPU or GPU can handle HEVC transcoding before converting your entire library.

Select the Quality Profile you want to edit (e.g., HD-1080p ).

Are you using sync tools like TRaSH-CI or Recyclarr ?