What Is The Difference Between 720 and 1080 for HDTVs?

As you begin to research HDTVs and HD projectors, you will stumble across many different numbers that will help you to understand the specifications and picture quality of an HDTV. The question becomes, “What do all the HDTV numbers actually mean?” Right now we are going to focus on the differences between 720 and 1080 when it comes to enjoying the highest HD screen resolution possible.

HDTV Picture Quality?

HD is all about picture quality and the main factor to improve the picture quality of your TV is the number of pixels used in rendering the image. The numbers themselves represent the number of vertical pixels on your HD set. A projector with 1080p is considered Full HD because it has the most pixels in action at over 2 million, while a 720p set has around half that much. For this reason, 1080 is the premier resolution for high definition.

Full HD Content Required

Something that many people do not realize is that much of the HD content they see is not in Full HD. Cable stations and local channels in HD are often broadcast in 720 or even 480. No matter what your projector’s capabilities, it will only be able to display an image quality as high as is broadcasted to the television or projector. This means that many shows, sports, and regular DVD movies will look the same whether your set is 720 or 1080. The only way to get the absolute best images on your 1080 TV at this time is through the use of a Blu Ray player and Blu Ray disc. While a 1080 television may not utilize its full capabilities all of the time, those HD TVs and projectors are future-proofed against the eventual broadcasting upgrades that allow for a Full HD image with cable and local channels.

Cost

The one advantage that a 720 HDTV has over a similar sized 1080 version is the final cost. More pixels equal a higher cost, but leads to an overall higher quality viewing experience. Depending on the size of television that you are look for the cost difference for a 720 vs 1080 can range from as little as a couple hundred dollars for 32 inch LCDs to nearly $1,000 for the largest sized Plasmas and LCDs. Something to consider is that the resolution matters most as the screen size gets bigger, so smaller HDTV set-ups can get away with the lower resolution of 720 and not be noticeably different from a 1080 set up. This means that you can save money on a 32-inch LCD with 720 that you use in an office area, kitchen, or bathroom; and use that money to splurge on 1080 for your larger projecion system in the living room or home theater area.

When it comes to HD, 1080 is the winner in the battle between 1080 versus 720. It’s higher overall resolution and ability to take advantage of future Full HD broadcasting ensures that you can enjoy the best picture clarity today and in the years to come.