When I bought my first Chromebook back in 2020, I imagined a bright future. I specifically wanted a convertible so I could replace my aging third-gen iPad (yes, the one from 2012). And due to Android app support, I thought I would be able to use it as my new media consumption machine. Unfortunately, things turned out to be more complicated, particularly when it comes to video streaming and downloading, and I wish I knew what I was getting myself into beforehand. To spare you the same disappointment, here's what's going on.
After setting up my Chromebook and installing the Netflix and Amazon Prime Video apps, I quickly filled up my local storage with a few flicks and shows to watch — after all, Google even advertises Netflix downloads as a Chromebook perk. While out and about (it was relatively safe to travel where I live during the summer), I noticed that both streaming services only offered sub-par video quality. I first thought it was my fault and suspected I forgot to crank up the download quality in settings, but even when I did that, the resolution remained sub-HD.
