Sonarr can be configured to prefer x265 (HEVC) releases by adjusting quality profiles, tags, indexer/installer behavior, and download client settings. This report explains recommended settings, workflow, potential issues, and testing steps.
In addition to storage efficiency, preferring x265 can also enhance streaming performance. With smaller file sizes, streaming requires less bandwidth to maintain high-quality video. This is especially beneficial for users with slower internet connections who might struggle to stream high-definition content using less efficient codecs. Furthermore, for those who share their media collections with friends or family over the internet, x265 files require less bandwidth, making sharing and streaming smoother and more efficient.
x265 requires significantly more processing power to decode. sonarr prefer x265
: Look for the quality or download settings section. Here, you should find options related to the quality and codec preferences.
Whether you're building a space-saving 720p HEVC collection or assembling a pristine 4K library with Dolby Vision, Sonarr's custom format system gives you the tools to achieve your goals. The key is patience in configuration, attention to detail in scoring, and a willingness to refine your approach based on actual results. Sonarr can be configured to prefer x265 (HEVC)
Instead of writing your own regular expressions, you can sync Sonarr directly with Trash Guides patterns using tools like . This automation syncs highly specific custom formats—such as prioritizing specific release groups known for excellent HEVC encodes (e.g., QxR, MinHDKR, TAO)—while automatically filtering out low-quality, automated "bitrate-starved" encodes. Summary Checklist for x265 Automation Action Item Configuration Location Expected Outcome Create Custom Format Settings > Custom Formats Defines the x265 / hevc regex tag for identification. Assign Format Score Settings > Profiles > [Your Profile] Gives x265 releases a +100 advantage over x264. Enable Upgrades Settings > Profiles > [Your Profile] Allows Sonarr to replace existing x264 files over time. Group Qualities Settings > Profiles > Edit Groups Prevents source tags from overriding codec preferences. Adjust Size Sliders Settings > Media Management Tailors the acceptable file size range to HEVC standards.
If you are running Sonarr v3, media preferences are handled via . This system applies global tags and scores to specific text strings found in release titles. Step-by-Step Setup Open Sonarr and go to Settings > Profiles . Scroll down to the Release Profiles section. Click the + (Add New) button. Name the profile Prefer x265 . With smaller file sizes, streaming requires less bandwidth
: Use release group filtering to favor reputable encoders known for quality x265 work. Create custom formats that score trusted groups higher while penalizing or blocking known low-quality encoders.
Managing a growing media library requires a delicate balance between visual quality and storage capacity. High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC), universally known as , offers the perfect solution by delivering identical visual fidelity to older x264 encodes at roughly half the file size.
By tailoring Sonarr to look for x265 encodes, you can easily cut your library's storage footprint in half without sacrificing video quality. Just ensure your playback devices are modern enough to handle the codec smoothly.