I need a 32-inch screen for Xbox Series S gaming, but many of the TVs I’m finding are 720p. My current TV is 1080p, so I’m wondering how noticeable the downgrade would be, or whether a monitor would make more sense.
Is 720p going to look bad on a 32-inch TV?
Asked by
J7__Croswell
Answers
If you can find a 1080p option that fits, I’d choose it. At 32 inches, 720p can look acceptable from farther back, but text and fine details will be softer, and games can make that difference easy to notice. It won’t become sharper just because the TV is newer.
Reply to this answer
Viewing distance matters a lot. Across a room, 720p may be perfectly watchable and the downgrade might not bother you. Sitting close for gaming makes the lower resolution more apparent, especially around small text and detailed edges. If possible, compare the screens from the distance you’ll actually use them.
Reply to this answer
I’d also look at monitors, since 1080p models are common and can be a good fit at this size. Check what connections you need, though. Some monitors have limited inputs, no remote, or weak built-in speakers, so you may need a separate audio setup for the Xbox.
V1+Glimmeret:
That’s a useful option. I’d need to check how I’d handle sound before deciding.
Reply to this answer
Don’t judge resolution by a low-bitrate online video alone. Source quality and the screen’s scaling can make 720p look better or worse, but neither can restore detail that isn’t there. For Xbox games, 1080p is the safer minimum if you have a choice. The HDMI cable won’t make a 720p panel display more pixels.
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
J7__Croswell:
That’s what I was worried about. I’ll keep looking for 1080p before settling for 720p.