Size Matters

Or Does it? Is it true that image quality is proportional to the size of your TV set? Well, to be honest, it is not. What determine the quality of your image are three distinct factors.

First, your TV’s resolution is critical. This will determine the maximal amount of pixels or lines a TV can natively display. Generally, sets are divided into 3 categories. 1080p sets, which can display 1080 lines of pixels vertically. This is the highest quality available to date. At this setting one can watch full HD content. Then there is 1080i/720p which is midrange quality and is present in most budget sets. This will display 720 lines of continuous or 1080 lines of interlaced pixels. This is a resolution lower than, for example, BluRay discs. Third, there is the native resolution which is calculated in the same way as in a computer monitor. As an example a 32” set will have a native resolution of 1365 by 768 pixels.

Second, the quality of the programming that is being broadcast will determine the maximal quality displayed on your screen. This is due to the fact that content is displayed in its native resolution. If a given show or movie is not being broadcast at a resolution that matches or exceeds your TV set’s capacity the output quality will be diminished.

Third, the optimization of the image depending on your TV’s brand and model. In order to get the most from your set you must optimize it so that it performs to the best of its capabilities. Set items such as contrast, ratio, color palette and others to best match the environment. This will give you a better viewing experience.