What is 4K Ultra High Definition?

4K resolution (called 4K, or UHD for "Ultra High Definition") is the latest generation of screen resolution for commercial digital televisions, computer monitors and video game consoles. This article explains what 4k Ultra High Definition is, where to get it, and where the most affordable deals are online.

How do 4K UHD TVs compare to 1080p HD TVs?

In short, 4K Ultra High Definition is much sharper than 1080p High Definition. While a 1080p tv screen has a resolution of 1920 x 1080, a tv screen with 4K Ultra High Definition has a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160. The higher the pixel count, the sharper the image.

If 4K TVs aren't 4,000 pixels wide, then why are they called 4K?

There are two main 4K resolution standards: DCI (aka "Cinema" 4K) and UHD (aka Ultra High Definition). DCI 4K has a resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels and is used by the film and video production industry, including movie theaters. Most home televisions are UHD, which is only 3,840 x 2,160. Those home television are still called 4K for simplicity, since it's easier to call TVs 4K rather than Ultra HD or 2160p. It might cause confusion since most 4K screens aren't actually 4000p, but people feel it's close enough.

But for those who want true 4K resolution in their home, Sony VPL-VW1100ES Native 4K 3D SXRD Home Theater Projector offers true 4K resolution like you get in a movie theater. Fair warning: it's pretty expensive.

Will a 4K screen turn everything 4K?

Along with a 4K screen, you need 4K content to play.

Where can I find 4K content?

YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Video and other streaming content providers offer 4K UHD. The good news is that many 4K TVs come with the ability to watch those streaming services without the need to purchase additional equipment. Regular Blu-Ray players do not play in 4K UHD, so those will need to be replaced with Ultra HD Blu-Ray players in order to play 4K Blu-Ray discs.

4K For Sale

The following are products available on Amazon.com for those looking to make the jump into 4K.

Sony VPL-VW1100ES Native 4K 3D SXRD Home Theater Projector

This projector by Sony offers true 4K resolution of 4096 x 2160. This is the same resolution you can find in movie theaters. If you're looking for the latest, greatest in home entertainment, this is definitely your device. Just make sure you're sitting down before looking at the price.

Get it here >

Samsung UN65KS8000 65-Inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV (2016 Model)

A much more affordable option for 4K UHD when compared to the Sony projector above is with this 65" Smart TV from Samsung. Since it is a Smart TV, you do not need a media streamer like a Roku, Chromecast, or Amazon Fire Stick (as well as others) in order to watch content from those providers. But some users may still want to use those devices if they prefer the user interface those devices provide.

Get it here >

TCL 49S405 49-Inch 4K Ultra HD Roku Smart LED TV (2017 Model)

Prices are falling fast for 4K TVs with great deals everywhere you look. This 49" 4K TV is currently on sale but at this low price, they're going quick.

Get it here >