A 4K upscaling Blu-ray player and a true UHD Blu-ray player are not exactly the same in terms of performance and quality, although they may seem similar at first glance. A 4K upscaling Blu-ray player converts standard Blu-ray discs into a 4K Ultra HD picture, providing a better video quality than a standard Blu-ray player. However, it does not support 4K Blu-ray discs, which can provide a higher level of detail and clarity than upscaled content.
On the other hand, a true UHD Blu-ray player can play 4K Blu-ray discs and support resolutions up to 3840 x 2160, providing a higher level of detail and clarity than upscaled content. Additionally, UHD Blu-ray players can support features such as High Dynamic Range (HDR), which can provide a wider range of colors and contrast, resulting in a more vibrant and lifelike picture.
In summary, while a 4K upscaling Blu-ray player can improve the video quality of standard Blu-ray discs, it cannot match the level of detail and clarity provided by a true UHD Blu-ray player. If you are looking for the best possible video quality, a true UHD Blu-ray player is the way to go.