Differences between 1080i and 1080p

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Comparison Article[edit]

Both 1080i and 1080p are high-definition video formats with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The key difference lies in how the image is displayed on screen. 1080p uses progressive scan, where each frame of video is drawn in sequence, from top to bottom. This results in a smoother, more detailed image, especially with fast motion. 1080i, on the other hand, uses an interlaced scan. Each frame is split into two fields – one with the odd-numbered lines and one with the even-numbered lines. These fields are displayed in rapid succession to create the illusion of a full frame.

Venn diagram for Differences between 1080i and 1080p
Venn diagram comparing Differences between 1080i and 1080p


Due to its bandwidth efficiency, 1080i has been a common format for television broadcasting. However, 1080p is the standard for most modern applications, including streaming services, Blu-ray discs, and video games, as it generally provides superior image quality.

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    • 1080i vs. 1080p**

1080i and 1080p are two high-definition (HD) video formats that both feature a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The[1] primary distinction between them lies in the method used to display the image on a screen. The[1][2] "i" in 1080i stands for interlaced scan, while the "p" in 1080p refers to progressive scan.

In[1][2] a 1080p format, each frame of the video is drawn sequentially, line by line from top to bottom, creating a complete image in a single pass. This[3][4] method results in a sharper and more stable picture, which is particularly noticeable in scenes with fast motion. In[3][5] contrast, 1080i uses an interlaced method where each frame is divided into two separate fields. The[3] first field contains all the odd-numbered lines of the image, and the second field contains all the even-numbered lines. These[3] fields are displayed in rapid succession, and the human eye combines them to perceive a complete image.

The[3] interlacing technique was developed for broadcast television because it could deliver high-resolution images without requiring excessive bandwidth. Consequently,[3] 1080i became a standard for many broadcasters. However,[3] because the two fields in an interlaced video are captured at slightly different moments in time, fast-moving objects can sometimes appear blurry or exhibit an artifact known as "combing."

Modern[5] display technologies, such as LCD and OLED screens, are inherently progressive and must convert an interlaced 1080i signal to a progressive format for display, a process called deinterlacing. The[4] quality of this conversion can vary, potentially impacting the final image quality.

For applications where motion clarity is important, such as video gaming and watching sports, 1080p is generally considered the superior format. Most[5] streaming services, Blu-ray discs, and modern gaming consoles use 1080p as their standard HD format. While[5] 1080i was a crucial step in the transition to high-definition television, 1080p offers a more universally consistent and higher-quality viewing experience on modern displays.

[3]### Comparison Table

| Category | 1080i | 1080p | | --- | --- | --- | | **Scanning Method** | Interlaced Scan |[3] Progressive Scan | | **Image Display** | Each frame is split into two fields (odd and even lines) displayed sequentially. |[3] All lines of each frame are drawn in sequence from top to bottom. |[3] | **Motion Handling** | Can exhibit motion artifacts like "combing" or blur in fast-paced scenes. |[5] Provides smoother and clearer motion. |[5] | **Effective Vertical Resolution** | 540 lines per field, combining to form a 1080-line image. | 1080 lines per frame, displayed at once. |[4] | **Bandwidth Usage** | Lower bandwidth requirements, making it suitable for broadcasting. |[3] Higher bandwidth requirements compared to 1080i. |[4] | **Common Applications** | Over-the-air and cable television broadcasting. |[3][5] Blu-ray Discs, streaming services, and video games. |[5] | **Compatibility** | Requires deinterlacing to be shown on modern progressive displays like LCD and OLED TVs. |[4] Natively compatible with all modern TVs, monitors, and projectors. |[1]


References[edit]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "son-video.com". Retrieved January 01, 2026.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 "makeuseof.com". Retrieved January 01, 2026.
  3. ↑ 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 01, 2026.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 "dexonsystems.com". Retrieved January 01, 2026.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 "videoexpertsgroup.com". Retrieved January 01, 2026.
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