What is hlg in tv

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) is a color format for high dynamic range (HDR) television that combines traditional SDR signals with an advanced gamma curve, enabling backward compatibility while delivering enhanced picture quality.

Key Facts

Understanding HLG

HLG stands for Hybrid Log-Gamma, a color encoding standard designed specifically for high dynamic range (HDR) television transmission. It represents a significant advancement in broadcast technology that maintains compatibility with existing SDR (standard dynamic range) equipment while delivering superior image quality.

Development and Standardization

HLG was jointly developed by the NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) and the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) to address the need for a broadcast-friendly HDR format. Unlike proprietary solutions such as Dolby Vision, HLG is a royalty-free standard, making it more accessible to broadcasters worldwide. The format was formally adopted as ITU-R BT.2100, the international standard for HDTV color encoding.

Technical Characteristics

HLG employs a logarithmic-linear transfer function that differs from traditional gamma curves. This approach provides several technical advantages:

Backward Compatibility

A key feature that distinguishes HLG from other HDR formats is its full backward compatibility with SDR displays. When HLG content is viewed on a standard television without HDR support, it automatically degrades gracefully to produce a viewable SDR image. This eliminates the need for separate SDR and HDR broadcasts of the same content, significantly reducing production and transmission costs.

Applications in Broadcasting

HLG is primarily used in broadcast television, live sports production, and streaming services that prioritize backward compatibility. Major broadcasters in the UK, Japan, and other regions have adopted HLG for transmitting HDR content. It is particularly valuable for live events where on-the-fly conversion and dynamic tone mapping are necessary.

Related Questions

What is the difference between HLG and PQ (Perceptual Quantizer)?

HLG uses a logarithmic-linear curve optimized for broadcast production with native backward compatibility, while PQ uses a perceptual quantizer function optimized for professional monitoring and Dolby Vision. PQ provides better precision at bright levels but requires tone mapping for SDR displays.

What devices support HLG format?

Most modern HDR-capable televisions, professional monitors, and streaming devices support HLG. However, support varies by manufacturer and software version. Streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and some Japanese broadcasters deliver HLG content natively.

Is HLG better than SDR?

HLG provides superior picture quality with higher dynamic range, better contrast, and more vibrant colors compared to SDR when viewed on HDR displays. However, HLG content viewed on older SDR-only displays will appear as standard dynamic range.

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Sources

  1. Wikipedia - Hybrid Log-Gamma CC-BY-SA-4.0
  2. ITU-R BT.2100-2 Recommendation ITU