Video resolution

What is video resolution?

Video resolution refers to the number of distinct pixels that are displayed vertically and horizontally on a screen or monitor. It’s usually described in terms of width and height, with the unit being pixels. For example, a video resolution of 1920x1080 means the display is 1920 pixels wide and 1080 pixels high.

Resolution also refers to the pixel density of a display, which is the number of pixels per inch (PPI) on a video output device. Higher pixel density means more detail can be displayed, leading to sharper and clearer images.

The importance of video resolution

Video resolution is crucial as it directly measures the quality of the video. Higher resolution means more pixels, which leads to more detail and a sharper image. This is why high-definition (HD) and 4K videos look much better than standard-definition (SD) videos.

However, higher resolution also leads to larger file sizes and more data usage. This is why streaming services often allow users to choose the video quality, balancing between image quality and effective data use.

Common video resolutions

Standard Definition (SD)

Standard Definition (SD) is the lowest resolution in common use today. It comes in two main varieties: 480i (interlaced) and 480p (progressive), with the number referring to the number of horizontal pixels on the screen.

SD content is still widely used, especially for older content that was originally produced in this resolution. However, it is gradually being phased out in favor of higher resolutions.

High Definition (HD)

High Definition (HD) is a significant step up from SD, offering much better image quality. There are two main types of HD: 720p (also known as HD Ready) and 1080p (also known as Full HD).

HD content is now the standard for most TV broadcasts, streaming services, and online videos. 720p resolution especially offers a great balance of image quality and data usage.

4K Ultra High Definition (UHD)

4K, also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD), is the next step up from HD. It offers four times the number of pixels as 1080p, resulting in much sharper and more detailed images.

4K content is becoming increasingly common, especially on streaming services. However, it requires a 4K-capable display and uses much more data than HD.

How to choose the right video resolution

When choosing the right video resolution, there are several factors to consider. The most important is the display you will be using. There's no point in choosing a 4K video if your display only supports 1080p, as you won't be able to see the extra detail.

Another factor is your internet connection. If you're streaming video, a slower connection may struggle with higher resolutions, leading to buffering and other issues. In this case, a lower resolution may be the better choice.

Finally, consider the content itself. Some content, such as older TV shows and movies, may not be available in higher resolutions. In this case, the highest available resolution will be the best choice.