HD ready vs Full HD. What's the difference?

Forums › Freeview (DVB-T/DVB-S) › HD ready vs Full HD. What's the difference?

Beretta

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#25545 24-Aug-2008 22:43

We're looking at getting a new LCD TV. I notice that full HD LCD panels cost a bit more than HD ready LCD panels (I've been browsing at Dick Smith's online store.). However, when I look at the details of a full HD panel, it still says this (see here for an example): "This television is HD ready and is compatible with the Freeview HD Receiver (G 7503), sold separately." And they all say that!

So what's the actual difference (apart from price!) between an HD ready TV and a full HD TV?

rscole86

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#159426 24-Aug-2008 22:46

Full HD will display a 1920x1080 signal, at 1920x1080

HD ready, will take full HD signals, and will display them at the panels resolution. Normally 1366x768.

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Beretta

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#159433 24-Aug-2008 23:20

Ah, thanks. So "HD ready" only means "can be connected to an HD receiver." Looks like it's full HD for me then. :)

rscole86

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#159439 24-Aug-2008 23:34

You will need to deicde what size of TV you are after, and what you will be using it for?

Anything 32" and under there is no need for a full HD TV.

Beretta

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#159441 24-Aug-2008 23:38

I'm looking at a 32" one. The resolution is still higher than HD ready, so it'll still be better, right?

EDIT: On another note - I notice that all the HD or HD ready TVs that I have seen are widescreen. It would be nice if Freeview was broadcast in widescreen so the picture isn't stretched.

EDIT again: This is the one I'm now considering.

Nety

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#159451 25-Aug-2008 06:26

Freeview IS widescreen.....

HD ready sets are still HD but are 720p rather then 1080p.

It is generally considered people cannot see the difference between 1080p and 720p when watching from normal viewing distances on screens below 50". Best to let your own eyes decide though. Just make sure you are sitting back as far as you will be at home.

Have a read here

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-definition_video

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sbiddle

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#159452 25-Aug-2008 06:38

And if you're also unaware many TV's are now coming with Freeview|HD tuners build it meaning their is no need for a standalone box.

aucklander

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#159831 26-Aug-2008 11:22

have a look at this chart:
http://s3.carltonbale.com/resolution_chart.html

It will give you an idea if you really need 1080 or 720. It was already said, you will not see the diference.

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rscole86

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#159834 26-Aug-2008 11:26

You can use this site to help judge the distance you would need to be sitting from your TV to have the optimal viewing experience.