Resolution is a big selling point for technology retailers, but does it really make a difference? The answer is yes!
The number indicators such as 1080, 2K and 4K are a reference to pixels, also known as picture elements. The more pixels there are, the clearer the picture will be, as the little dots don’t have to stretch as far. If you think about a small photograph, it becomes blurred when enlarged. On the other hand, a large photo can be scaled down without affecting picture quality. This same theory can be applied to the resolution of digital screens.
Let’s take a closer look at how these common resolution types differ from one another.
Resolution: 1080P
Full HD or 1080p is a standard display resolution, and is the very least you should expect. It quickly replaced 720p (HD) as the norm, and is widely used in computing and televisions. Full HD is measured at 1920 x 1080 pixels, which is width x height.
For TVs around 50 inches, 1080p will offer reasonable picture quality. Serious gamers will likely prefer a higher resolution, but they will need the right graphics card and RAM to be able to use it effectively.
Resolution: 2K
The next resolution, 2K, is slightly different because it doesn’t refer to an exact number of pixels, but a width of somewhere in the 2000s and an unspecified height. It isn’t as common because 2K was originally designed to be specifically for cinema use. Movie enthusiasts may seek out this resolution, as the width is slightly bigger than 1080p, and it can have relevance when watching a movie on Blu-ray.
Resolution: 4K
As television screens are getting bigger, technology needs to keep up. The clarity and crispness of imagery you get with 4K Ultra HD resolution makes it a highly sought after feature. With approximately 4000 pixels horizontally, it will have about four times the resolution of Full HD. This resolution suits the trend towards larger TVs for that at-home cinema experience.
It isn’t just televisions that are benefiting from 4K Ultra HD technology, monitors and projectors are utilizing these features as well. You can even purchase security camera systems with 4K, which can capture even the finest details. These innovations can give the police a greater chance of spotting identifying features of an intruder as any footage will never be grainy or blurry.
Streaming services are also embracing 4K Ultra HD, but you will need compatible technology to be able to view it.
What About 8K?
Right now the availability of 8K content is almost nonexistent, so it probably won’t be worth the additional financial outlay.
Of course, this is a personal decision and if the latest and greatest is a priority, that may be enough to get you to upgrade. However, it could be quite a number of years before you see the benefits, so instead, it is worth considering the outstanding features you will find in 4K.
The Difference Is in the Detail
The display resolution does make a difference, as the more pixels you have, the less the picture will have to stretch. The crisp imagery and fine details that 4K provides is changing the way we view video, as it is almost four times as clear as the old standard Full HD.
This technology is available in televisions, monitors and security camera systems. If you are looking to upgrade your current products, 4K is an excellent choice.
