Is 1080p Still Good in 2022?
Yes, 1080p remains a highly reliable and satisfactory resolution choice in 2022, especially for everyday use such as streaming, gaming, and general media consumption. It offers a clear and sharp image quality that is more than sufficient for many users and their devices, whether it be TVs, monitors, or laptops. While higher resolutions like 4K (2160p) have gained popularity and become more accessible, 1080p is still a solid alternative for those who may not have the necessary hardware or bandwidth to support 4K content. Additionally, 1080p content is well-supported and widely available across various platforms.
The Current Landscape of TV Resolutions
Given the current market, it’s nearly impossible to avoid encountering 4K TVs. Modern stores primarily stock TVs 43 inches and larger as 4K models. This means that unless one desires a smaller TV (43 inches or below), it’s a rare choice. However, this isn’t an issue for most users, as 1080p remains entirely adequate for most TV viewing experiences. The difference between 1080p and 4K is, for the majority of people, only noticeable when viewing extremely close, which most users do not prefer.
Real-World Viewing Experience
When considering the viewing experience at a normal distance, the distinction between 1080p and higher resolutions is negligible. For a 65-inch TV, I have to sit about 4 feet away to notice the superiority of 4K, a distance that most people are not comfortable with. This level of closeness isn’t necessary for enjoyment and the benefit isn’t significant. Higher resolutions may make more sense for devices that are viewed from closer proximity, like monitors.
The Dominance of 1080p
The 1080p resolution has become the defacto standard in most content production, with 4K occupying a secondary but significant position. It’s essential to be cautious about claims regarding 4K, as they may not reflect the true capabilities of the system. 4K does require a substantial amount of bandwidth, which many systems handle either through up-conversion at the connection stage or simply by downscaling to 1080p. In many domestic settings, this downscaling is so effective that users hardly notice any difference. Thus, a majority of people find 1080p screens more than adequate.
Modern 1080p Panels
Modern 1080p panels offer higher refresh rates and better HDR color, which can significantly enhance the overall viewing experience. For gaming, 1080p at 60fps is often just as effective as higher resolutions for many gamers, especially those who aren’t on cutting-edge hardware. In many cases, the display can achieve both higher refresh rates and better HDR quality without the need to compromise on resolution. Even movies and other streaming content are predominantly produced at 1080p, as it remains a cost-effective and widely supported standard.