HiDef resolutions: 1080p, 1080i, and 720p

OK, so we know that HiDef basically means better quality picture. This is because the picture has a higher resolution. Images are made up of squares (pixels) so the higher the resolution, the smaller these blocks appear, thus making the picture more smooth and less blocky. Resolution is also the name given for the number of pixels that can fit on the screen at any one time.

But what do all the numbers mean exactly?

See below for a list of the main resolutions you are likely to encounter:

1080p – Resolution: 1920×1080, so 1920 pixels across, and 1080 pixels from top to bottom.

1080i – Resolution: 1280×1080, so 1280 pixels across, and 1080 pixels from top to bottom.

720p – Resolution: 1280×720, so 1280 pixels across, and 720 pixels from top to bottom.

These are all widescreeen also.

The easiest way to look at it is, if realism is in the details, then the higher the resolution, the better your TV is equipped the see the minute details on screen. For example, you can make out wrinkles more clearly on a full HiDef 1080p TV than a 720p.

Regarding buying one of these TVs, the best way to decide is to figure out how big you want your TV. Only if you decide to buy at least a 42 inch TV, then bother thinking about 1080p. The reason for this is simply that the human eye cannot distinguish that much extra detail on a 32inch TV for example. 1080p only works to the desired effect on larger TVs. Some people would even say that if its not 50 inch, then don’t bother with 1080p.

With this is mind, you can get a TV for even cheaper, since you won’t be paying for Full HiDef, and you won’t notice any difference at all.

Some purists will tell you to still fork out for full HiDef, but don’t mind them, they only say that coz they can’t live without having the absolute top of the line features for the TVs! Pick the size of TV you want, and pick whichever one is in your budget. Simple as that.

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