How to Compare TV Resolution

Resolution is an important factor to consider when purchasing a new TV.

Quite simply, resolution refers to how many pixels a TV monitor displays. Standard definition televisions have a resolution of 480, or 480 lines of pixels running across the width of the screen. As of 2010, high-definition televisions are produced with resolutions of 720p to 1080p.

720p

The pixel dimensions for a 720p HD television are 1280 pixels wide by 720 pixels high. As of 2010, most broadcasts are in a 720p format. Satellite TV is typically broadcast in 720p or 1080i.

1080i

A 1080i HD TV is 1,920 pixels across and 1,080 pixels high. The letter "i" refers to the manner in which the picture is produced; it represents odd lines displayed first, even lines displayed a split second thereafter. "P" stands for progressive, or top-to-bottom lines displayed sequentially. Some people believe 720p TVs have a clearer picture than 1080i TVs. For viewing, however, it is a matter of personal preference.

1080p

A 1080p HD television picture also displays 1,920 pixels by 1,080 pixels. As of 2010, very few broadcasts are in a 1080p format, but 1080p is the standard resolution for HD DVDs, Blu-ray discs, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360.

References

• HDTV Review Lab: HDTV resolution 101