1080p versus 1080i The Great Debate: Which is Best for You?
 by Dylan Rolex

1080p versus 1080i The Great Debate: Which HDTV is Best for You?

1080p is known as progressive scan format and 1080i is known as interlaced scan format.  The two formats bear some similarities, but also have differences.  This article will help you understand the difference between 1080p vs. 1080i. 

HDTV is becoming increasingly popular and it has everything to do with the two scan formats, 1080i and 1080p. The interlaced format is known as 1080i, you find this format on CRT model units. CRT models look similar to gigantic computer monitors, as it has a hump in its back, therefore it is not flat. This is not to say 1080i format is not found in LCD flat panels or plasmas but it gained its popularity from the CRT models. The progressive scan format known as 1080p is commonly found in LCD or plasma units.

1080p is the newer of the two, but new doesn't always equal good --- because even though it's the newer of the two formats it still has some ways to go before everyone catches on. At the time of this writing there are no station who broadcast in 1080p format, therefore you may pay for a unit which isn't getting any use out of its HD capabilities. Additionally, many devices and equipment have yet to be created which support 1080p formats, including cameras, media, editing software, etc.

HDTV is beautiful in its many states. It has brought great image resolution, picture perfect clarity and images which are strictly detailed. Along with this, there is the added benefit of faster response times which do not allow images to linger. Also, there is the great feature of presenting every shade of color exactly as it is. Let's check out the basic difference between the two top scan formats during this round; 1080i vs. 1080p.

1080i versus 1080p Scan Formats

The interlaced format and the progressive format differ a lot in the way they are formatted. 1080i paints the 1080 horizontal lines in two halves that are interlaced. This is done by painting the 540 even numbered lines first and the 540 odd numbered lines next. This style of formatting forms the entire field of 1080 lines; the screens are painted 60 times per second but all the time, only half the lines on a given frame are brushed. This means that the image detailing and resolution automatically becomes half that of 1080p. After all, the progressive scan formats show each line per frame in a single go.

1080(p)rogressive scan format is considered "full high definition" or "complete high definition" which means it display at the widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9 and a rate frequency of 30 Hz.  1080p shows a much better picture and resolution than 1080i.  1080p HDTV is currently the latest and greatest of display format technology.

The Downfalls of the Great 1080p

1080p is not yet ready to explode on the channels. And it might not become ready anytime soon. Yes, it resolves an image with twice the efficiency of 1080i yet the interlaced format has a quality image readiness. Most of the video contents can be shown over the format while 1080p needs a HD-DVD or Blu-Ray Disc player. So while the images are clear, the progressive scan format with 1920 pixels and 1080 horizontal lines cannot be of much use now. Having said this, once the channels gear up, 1080p will be right up there, nearly unconquerable.

The Price Matters

1080p bears a greater cost because it is the newest format of the two. However, the benefit of 1080p is that many units which support 1080p also support 1080i as well as the lesser 720p.  Therefore the 1080p gives you the best of all worlds.  Regardless of display format your HDTV price will vary depending on size, model, and other tech specifications.

The Choice

At the time of this writing 1080p is new to the market with no broadcasters who support 1080p and it's likely not to change in the near future. With that said, 1080p is the latest and greatest technology and when it does become available for broadcast you will be well prepared. As pointed out earlier, units which support 1080p commonly also support the other formats which precede it.  It is really a personal choice.  I would suggest that your HDTV experience don't only come down to its display format because regardless your choice, as of current if you are looking to view 1080p through your cable provider you will not get your money's worth if you opt for a 1080p since you won't find a 1080p broadcast signal.  However if you watch many DVD's or Blue-Ray disc formatted in 1080p display then you will have an unbelievable experience with 1080p.  The choice is yours!
 

• Panasonic 50-inch Plasma 1080p HDTV - Buy this 50-inch Plasma HDTV

• Philips 42-inch Plasma 720p HDTV - Buy this 42-inch Plasma HDTV

• LG 32-inch LCD 1080i HDTV - Buy this 32-inch LCD HDTV

70-inch Sony Bravia KDL-70BRX7 HDTV 120Hz LCD 1080p
 

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