Blu-ray is capable of storing and playing movies in 1080p resolution. In many ways, 1080p resolution is called “true high definition” gold “Full HD“. A Blu-ray disc can store and play approximately 5-6 hours of high-definition content (1080p resolution) and approximately 24 hours of standard-definition content (480i or 480p resolution). With the ability to store up to 50 gigabytes of data, you’ll be able to watch an entire Blu-ray movie in crystal-clear clarity.
But what exactly is 1080p resolution?
Well, the number 1080 means that there are 1080 lines of vertical resolution. In general, the higher the number of lines of vertical resolution, the sharper and more detailed the image will be. The letter “p” stands for progressive scan. Progressive scan (also known as non-interlaced) is a way of transmitting, storing, or displaying moving images. The other method of transmitting, storing, or displaying moving images is called interlacing. Interlacing is represented by the letter “i” (1080i). Interlace was created to improve video quality without consuming more bandwidth. However, progressive scan is superior to the interlaced method because the progressive scan method transmits, stores, or displays moving images by processing all horizontal lines sequentially in each frame. While the interleaving method processes one line every other in one frame, then the rest of the lines in the next. This results in reduced horizontal resolution. While the interlaced method isn’t all bad, and the progressive scan method isn’t perfect, when it comes to which provides the best image quality, progressive scan is the way to go.
HD DVD has the ability to store and play 1080p movies, so why is Blu-ray better?
The answer to that question requires one word, space. An HD DVD has more limitations than a Blu-ray. HD DVD discs and Blu-ray discs come in two forms, single layer and double layer. Note that the higher the number of gigabytes, the more data can be stored. A single layer HD DVD disc has a maximum capacity of 15 gigabytes and a single layer Blu-ray disc has a maximum capacity of 25 gigabytes. When these two discs are double layered, their maximum capacities double, with an HD DVD at 30 gigabytes and a Blu-ray at 50. So, at most, Blu-ray can handle 20 gigabytes of additional storage, and with a world of that is constantly changing, that extra 20 gigabytes can make a world of difference.
Blu-ray Movies: In the highest definition ever!
Blu-ray movies have an advantage over HD DVD movies. Due to lack of space, HD DVD will eventually fall further and further behind. By contrast, Blu-ray will reach its full potential, being able to store more of the finest details and stunning visuals. Blu-ray has reached the highest definition ever!
