Why does HDR look dull?

Streaming HDR content is faded Another HDR content viewing issue involves the playing of streaming HDR content. If played via an HDR online stream (Youtube etc.) you may encounter dim or dull video. If you download the same content and play it locally on the system, the HDR content appears clear and crisp.

Is HDR supposed to be brighter?

Modern TVs are so much brighter than older TVs that even at lower backlight settings they can still be eye-searingly bright. The highlights of HDR content on HDR TVs are much brighter than “normal” standard dynamic range TVs (Image for illustrative purposes only. Actual HDR on an HDR TV will be physically brighter).