Hdtv Faceoff: 720 Or 1080?

Why does it really matter? Is the extra money associated with purchasing a 1080p set worth the "clearer" resolution? That question all depends on what you are looking for in a HD set.

If you think one set is HD and the other is not, you need not worry. Both 720 and 1080 sets are considered high definition because they are required to support the full range (720p to 1080p) signals. So if you are simply after a television considered "high definition" either set will suffice.

A little background on the difference between 720p and 1080i broadcast signals. A 720p signal is made up of 720 horizontal lines. Each frame is displayed in its entirety on-screen for 1/30th of a second.

This is known as progressive scan signal (hence the 'p')The quality is like watching 30 photographic images a second on TV. A 1080i signal comprises 1080 horizontal lines but all the lines are not displayed on-screen simultaneously.

Instead, they are interlaced (hence the 'i'), ie every other lines is displayed for 1/60th of a second and then the alternate lines are displayed for 1/60th of a second. So, the frame rate is still 30 frames per second, but each frame is split into two fields, which your brain then puts together subconsciously. A 1080p signal produces 1080 horizontal lines like a 1080i set, but the 1080p set utilizes progressive scan technology, and produces the best quality image available on the market today.

Screen size is an important consideration for consumers looking for a new HD set. The difference in clarity between 720 and 1080 sets becomes more noticeable as the screen gets larger.

At about 24 inches and smaller, the difference in display quality becomes more difficult to discern. I remind consumers looking at smaller TVs that tout 1080p definition that they are paying for extra features that really do not make a difference.

For these smaller TVs, a smaller 720p set is the right choice. Conversely, as the screen size of an HD set grows, the more important it is to ensure that the television has 1080i or better resolution. When looking for a TV with a screen larger than 32 inches, most experts would recommend getting a 1080p set.

If you are looking for a TV that handles fast action sequences, like sporting events, you should avoid an HD set that produces images via interlace technology. Progressive scan signals don't have this problem and so are better suited to handle fast action sequences.

Lastly, consumers should remember that simply because a set is 720p or 1080i, it doesn't mean that the set will play all images in those respective settings. A HD set receiving a standard definition 480p signal will only produce signals in 480p quality.

Why does this matter? Because many programming providers who offer HD programming only do so at 720p levels, its not critical for those looking for HD programming to purchase a 1080 ready set.

What does this all mean? Your decision to purchase an HD set should be made based on the size of screen needed, the quality of programming available, and the type of programming you want to watch. Depending on your viewing needs, either 720 or 1080 might be the right decision for you.