Choosing a New TV: Making Sense of the 4K and Ultra HD Choices
If you are planning to purchase a new television and you thought that your choices were simplified because high definition flat screens are the only type of televisions on the market, think again. Technological advances in televisions are here with new features and extreme clarity. New televisions have more letters and abbreviations than Sesame Street can keep up with, so we are here today to organize and define for you all of the ABCs, LEDs, LCDs, UHDs, and 4Ks of the television world.
4K Televisions vs. UHD Televisions Defined
The short description is that televisions have surpassed the initial pixel size, resolution, and frame rates of the original HD high definition televisions. In August 2012, the Consumer Electronics Association introduced the term Ultra High Definition (UHD) with the intention of replacing the term being used for high(er) definition televisions 4K and defined UHD televisions as those having “at least 3,840 x 2,160 pixels. Some brands are still using 4K, some use Ultra HD and some blend them together and call their televisions 4K Ultra HD. Aside from the individual nuances and small differences between manufacturers and brand names, Ultra HD or 4K is going to give you 4 times the picture resolution of 1080p Full HD. It means 8 million pixels compared to 2 million pixels. It also means more image clarity, finer detailing, greater texture, more realistic color, and a smooth quality for the pictures.
What Size Screen Should You Purchase?
Initially when 4k AND Ultra HD televisions were introduced, they were excessive in size and price tags. An 80 inch screen is not feasible for most living room sizes. In order to experience the benefits of UHD over full HD, the screen size should be 55 inches or larger. Although you will see an improvement in resolution even if you are sitting closer than the recommended 1 and a half screen size away from the screen, or at least 2 to 3 meters away. The next part involves waiting on television filming and broadcasting to upgrade to the higher resolution as well. The cameras used for filming must go through an upgrade as well as all related devices including DVD players, HD DVRs, video game consoles, etc. The good news is that if you purchase an Ultra HD television you will still experience increased resolution and a better picture overall, it is still going to be compatible with older full HD technology.
Conclusion and Takeaways
It seems that at this point, the technology is so new and each manufacturer is trying to come up with a unique way to classify their high pixel resolution television and brand it differently than the rest. Some industry sites say that there is a clear difference between 4K and Ultra HD, some insist there is no difference, and yet others claim that there is only a slight difference. The proponents for designating a difference between 4K and Ultra HD state that 4K should be used as a standard for cinema and professional video production and that Ultra HD should be used as the standard for broadcast television and consumer displays. The industry is still trying to work it out and make clear definitions. What does that mean for you looking to purchase a new high definition television? Do your research, investigate all of the televisions in the market and ask what is coming out next. Be sure to find out about compatibility with the current technology, devices, and wiring that you have, and consider the size room, lighting, and acoustics you have compared to what is on display at the store.
About Matt Thames
Matt Thames is blogger and Brand Manager for Selby Acoustics. He enjoys sharing tips and ideas on home entertainment and component topics.
