1080i v 1080p

The higher the number the better! "p" is better than "i"

Here is how it works.. 1080 / 720 / 480 represents the number of horizontal scan lines the picture can display. So, you want more clarity, thus, the higher the number the better.

"i" stands for interlacing. In this method of display the even lines are drawn first, then the odd, then the even are redrawn. Sometimes you see "scanning" of a TV on a TV. This is because of how the lines are displayed. It happens so fast you only see one picture being displayed.

"p" stands for progressive display. In this method the TV displays lines like you would think, line 1, line 2, line 3, line 4, etc. You essentially get twice the frames being displayed in progressive mode. Since progressive mode displays more pixels in the same amount of time, it’s much preferred for fast moving scenes like action movies, sports, etc.

Technically no “broadcast” signlas are in 1080p format. It costs too much in bandwidth. However, 1080p is used for BlueRay, HD-DVD, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3. If it costs little more, go for a 1080p set. Then 1080i, then 720p. Anything less than 720p is not considered “high definition”

Finally – consider your setup. 1080i / 1080p is usually not needed in less than 40 inch TVs. This is because a human eye can only see so much, and at a certain point the extra pixels are not interpreted by the human mind. The closer you sit to the TV matters too. If you have a 70 inch plasma and are sitting 25 feet away – your eye won’t be able to see the difference either. However, if a 70 inch plasma and sitting 7 feet away – you want the extra resolution.

Hope this helps.