Whether you are a "watch and delete" user after the smallest files, a 4K HDR collector needing the best codec, or simply a hoarder running out of drive bays, this guide provides everything you need to take complete control. Happy automating!
Start with Custom Formats for maximum flexibility, leverage TRaSH Guides for battle-tested configurations, and don't forget that quality isn't just about codec—release groups, bitrates, and source quality matter just as much as whether a file uses x265 or x264.
Also set in Sonarr:
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.
Prevent Sonarr from grabbing starved encodes by setting size floors. Go to > Quality . sonarr prefer x265
Basic tagging fails because uploaders are inconsistent. Some release groups tag HEVC , others tag x265 , and some use H.265 . Worse, fake uploaders tag x265 on low-bitrate garbage.
The x265 codec is highly efficient, but some release groups distribute heavily compressed, low-bitrate files (often called "mini-HD" or "micro-HD"). To avoid poor video quality, pair your x265 preference with these safeguards: 1. Set Minimum File Size Limits Whether you are a "watch and delete" user
Configuring Sonarr to prefer x265 is one of the most impactful optimizations you can make for your home media server. By utilizing Custom Formats, you transition your library into an automated, space-saving ecosystem without sacrificing the structural integrity of your high-definition quality profiles. Your server will selectively harvest highly efficient files, slowing down your need to purchase expensive new storage arrays while maintaining a pristine viewing experience.
Now that Sonarr knows what an x265 file looks like, you need to tell it that these files are "worth more." Settings > Profiles Select the Profile you use (e.g., Scroll down to Custom Formats Find your new x265 / HEVC format and give it a positive score (e.g., Save Changes Step 3: Set an Upgrade Goal (Optional) Also set in Sonarr: While x265 is highly