Sonarr Prefer X265 [verified] -

x265 (HEVC)

To make Sonarr prefer content, you must configure Custom Formats (v4) or Release Profiles (v3) to assign positive scores to releases containing x265-related keywords . This tells Sonarr that while a 1080p x264 and a 1080p x265 file are the same "Quality," the x265 version is preferred due to its higher score. Setting Up Preferences in Sonarr v4

Release Profiles

Sonarr (Version 3 and 4) does not have a magic "x265 only" button, but it has a powerful scoring system called . This allows you to say "I want x265, but I will take x264 if necessary." sonarr prefer x265

• Test changes on a small number of series before mass-applying.
• Keep automated replacements disabled if storage or bandwidth limited; run manual searches.
• Keep a backup of your Sonarr config before major changes.
• Document your custom formats and release profiles for future maintenance.
• Use private indexers or trusted public indexers with strong HEVC availability.

Quality Profile

A Custom Format does nothing until it is assigned a score in a . x265 (HEVC) To make Sonarr prefer content, you

• Create a custom Quality Profile named e.g., Prefer x265.
• Set allowed qualities (ordered low→high) to match your needs (e.g., 480p, 720p, 1080p, 2160p).
• For each quality, set Cutoff to the lowest quality you’ll accept as final (usually 1080p or 2160p).
• Use the Preferred Words field to strongly prefer x265:

  The Transcoding Trap

  1. Do NOT force Must Not Contain: x264.
  2. Do create a Custom Format (Sonarr v4) for x265 and give it +100 points.
  3. Do create a Custom Format for x264 and give it -10 points.
  4. Keep your Quality Profile standard. (Bluray > WebDL > HDTV).
  5. If you have Plex Pass: Turn on Hardware Transcoding.
  6. If you have remote users: Buy an Intel 7th gen+ CPU or ban them from using web browsers.

  Part 1: The "Why" – x264 vs. x265