Optimization vs Multiple Versions

Plex Media Server Metadata & Adding Files
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Server Version#: 1.41.4.9463
Player Version#:
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Based on the support articles’ explanation of optimized versions, I am wondering if the same functionality occurs when ripping/adding multiple versions of a movie (480p, 1080p, 4k, etc.). To be more specific, my understanding is Optimized versions are for eliminating/reducing on-the-fly transcoding to improve streaming performance for systems that may not be able to handle it. With this, I also thought I understood optimized versions to be limited to a particular quantity based on the 10 most recent uploads.

Knowing this, can different versions (480p, 1080, 4k) be ripped/added, instead, and Plex automatically swap to a lower quality version that was ripped/added as opposed to swapping among the Optimized versions? This would bypass the quantity/most recently added limitation while improving performance all the same. Currently, to view different versions of a movie (480p, 1080p, 4k), the format must be selected before playback. Does Plex switch between the different formats similar to how it would to different optimized versions based on streaming quality/transcoding ability? Most movies come with multiple disks containing different versions, so this would actually give them a purpose.

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There’s an OPTION to limit the creation optimized versions if you trigger it for an entire library or show. You don’t have to apply such a limitation.
Optimizing your media isn’t an on-the-fly activity. Plex will prepare those optimized versions (vs. on-the-fly background transcoding which can be done at any time for individual requests to stream media; either because the client requests a specific restricted resolution/bitrate or based on its playback capabilities). Unless you apply a limitation to only keep X optimized files, those are staying in your library next to the original (therefore: no, optimizing files is no destructive procedure).

Unless you specifically pick a version to play (usually via the context menu „Play Version“), Plex should pick the best suited one for a playback situation. From what I’ve been reading, that’s not necessarily perfect as there’s lots of factors. Plex will not jump between versions on its own.

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Alright, I figured. Ultimately, I feel like it would be better if it automatically swapped between different ripped versions instead of optimized versions.

Thanks for the clarification!

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There is also an option in the clients settings under quality you can set to limit resolution and bitrate for streaming so you dont have to select which version to play manually