8K Compatible Devices

The main difference between 1080P, 4K and 8K is the amount of pixels. Display resolution is measured in pixels, specifically how many pixels a display can show horizontally and vertically. Additionally, each resolution will have its advantages and disadvantages regarding accessibility and use cases. Let’s get into more detail.

1080p resolution is typically referred to as Full HD (FHD).A 1080p image can show 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically. 1080p offers a 2.073 million pixels image with a display aspect ratio of 16:9. The ideal monitor size for 1080p is anything up to 25 inches. When taking refresh rates into account, there are some limitations to which HDMI standards can transmit certain 1080p signals. For instance, the 1080p25Hz to 1080p60Hz range is supported by all current HDMI standards (HDMI 1 to HDMI 2.1). Meanwhile, not all HDMI standards are capable of transmitting 1080p100Hz to 1080p240Hz. When it comes to accessibility, 1080p devices are very popular and easily accessible.

4K is often referred to as Ultra HD (UHD). 4K is currently one of the most popular display resolutions for both commercial and professional applications. A 4K image offers 3840 pixels horizontally and 2160 pixels vertically. A 4K display is made up of 8.23 million pixels and has a resolution aspect ratio of 16:9. The ideal monitor size for 4K is between 27 and 43 inches. Looking at refresh rates, from 4K25Hz to 4K60Hz, users are limited to HDMI 2.0 to HDMI 2.1. If a user is transmitting 4K25/30, then it would be possible to transmit the signal using HDMI 1.3 to HDMI 1.4b if needed. When it comes to accessibility, 4K devices are currently very popular and can be purchased over the counter for commercial or professional applications.

8K is simply referred to as 8K or 8K UHD. 8K is currently on the rise as more 8K devices are being rolled out for commercial and professional use. An 8K image offers 7680 pixels horizontally and 4320 pixels vertically. An 8K display is made up of 33.1 million pixels and has a 16:9 resolution aspect ratio. The ideal monitor size for 8K is 65 inches to 85 inches. Considering refresh rates, only the HDMI 2.1 standard is capable of transmitting an 8K resolution. HDMI 2.1 is currently the only HDMI standard that can handle uncompressed, high quality 8K video data at up to 120 frames per second. When it comes to accessibility, 8K compatible devices are limited. 8K offers pristine lifelike image quality, making it attractive for entertainment purposes. Currently, 8K devices are mainly being purchased for professional applications, while some commercial 8K devices are becoming popular such as 8K televisions.

The two main features of 8K are Ultra High Definition lifelike image quality and crystal clear quality over large displays (65 to 85 inches). This is ideal for those looking to entertain and stand out from the crowd. 8K displays also offer the best contrast, better brightness levels and overall viewing experience for larger audiences.

• 8K30Hz over HDMI 2.1 (48 gbps): 4:4:4 Chroma
• 8K60Hz over HDMI 2.1 (48 gbps): 4:2:0 Chroma
What’s the difference? 4:2:0 records less color information than 4:4:4, which affects color grading and edge transitions. This means 8K30Hz over HDMI 2.1 will offer a lower frame rate and higher color grade while 8K60Hz over HDMI 2.1 will offer a higher frame rate but slightly lower color grade.