K stands for 1000, a widely used abbreviation across various fields. Therefore, when referring to 2K, people typically think of the number 2000, 4K brings to mind 4000, and 8K denotes 8000.
When discussing the pixel count of a screen, humans also use K to express the number of pixels horizontally. While not entirely accurate, it serves as a close approximation, aiding in determining the display resolution level. FullHD, 4K, or 8K not only represent the horizontal pixel count but also indicate the developmental stage of the screen.
While TVs follow standards such as FullHD, 4K, and 8K resolutions, computer monitors diverge with some adhering to these standards while others opt for different resolutions. Additionally, computer screen aspect ratios do not strictly adhere to the 16:9 ratio like TVs, but instead, they vary.
Even tiny smartphones boast resolutions comparable to TVs and computer monitors. Due to their diverse aspect ratios and rapid development, they contribute to a world of varying resolutions and aspect ratios, moving away from the standard FullHD, 4K, and 8K resolutions as well as the 16:9 aspect ratio.
Pixel Density (PPI)
In 2010, Apple introduced the iPhone 4 along with the Retina display concept. According to this concept, when you look at a screen without seeing individual pixels, Apple calls it Retina. Since then, Apple has followed the Retina path, focusing on pixel density rather than adhering to the FullHD, 4K, or 8K concepts like other companies. Apple's current products boast a PPI (Pixels Per Inch) above 320 for smartphones, over 264 for iPads, and above 216 for computers, meeting the Retina standard. Currently, Apple has 'Retina-ized' all their display screen products. This means that when you use any Apple device, you won't perceive individual pixels or pixelation on the screen.
Nowadays, our concern is not just about FullHD, 4K, or 8K, but about pixel density. Because simply having the same FullHD or 4K resolution doesn't translate equally across different screen sizes like 6 inches versus 27 or 60 inches. At this point, the terms 4K or 8K fail to convey the screen's ability to depict details accurately. Despite being easier to market, they fall short compared to PPI (Pixels Per Inch).
Other Resolutions
Beyond FullHD, 4K, 6K, and 8K, the evolution of screens has led to various resolutions, especially in the realm of smartphones and computer displays. However, due to the vast array of smartphone models and their abundance, people have almost lost interest, and most smartphones now boast a PPI of over 320. Consequently, discussing screen resolutions has become irrelevant and obsolete for promotional purposes.
When it comes to TVs nowadays, the focus is mainly on two resolutions: 4K and 8K. While many high-end TVs have embraced 8K, 4K remains prevalent among the majority of TVs. Currently, people are more concerned about TV size and panel technology rather than resolution.
Computer displays are currently one of the most dynamic and vibrant areas, as they not only feature resolution and pixel density but also screen aspect ratios and refresh rates. Computer screen aspect ratios have evolved beyond the traditional 16:9 to include 21:9 and even 32:9.
Common Resolutions on Computer Displays:
As of 2023, you can find the following screen resolutions when purchasing a computer monitor.- 1280x720 (HD)
- 1920x1080 (FullHD)
- 2560x1440 (QHD)
- 3440x1440 (WQHD)
- 3840x2160 (4K UHD)
- 5120x2800 (5K)
- 5120x2160 (WUHD)
- 5120x1440 (Dual QHD)
- 6016x3384 (6K)
- 6144x3456 (6K)
- 7680x4320 (8K)
- HD = high-definition
- QHD = quad high-definition
- WQHD = wide quad high-definition
- UHD = ultra high-definition
- WUHD = wide ultra high-definition
- Dual QHD = 2 QHD
Common Mistakes in Naming Displays Based on Resolution:
Referring to a 3440x1440 display as 4K
In the product information provided by Phi Long, the Samsung LS34J550 monitor is labeled as 4K, whereas in reality and in the specifications, it is only 3440x1440 (WQHD). https://philong.com.vn/man-hinh-phang-4k-34-samsung-ls34j550-2194kva75hzdphdmix2.htmlhttps://www.samsung.com/vn/monitors/ultra-wide/ultra-wqhd-monitor-with-21-9-wide-screen-34-inch-ls34j550wqexxv/Referring to a 3440x1440 display as a 2K monitor
I don't know the exact origin, but many people refer to a 3440x1440 display as a 2K monitor. After reading some explanations, it seems that people understand '2K' as displays with a vertical resolution of 1440 pixels because in reality, the pixel density of 1440 displays is at the QHD level regardless of the width (2560, 3440, 5120). The concepts of 2K, 2K+, and 2.5K are devised by enthusiasts to easily visualize where a display stands in comparison to 4K, 5K, 6K, etc., facilitating easy comparison and understanding of the resolution level. However, labeling a 3440x1400 monitor as 2K, 2K+, or 4K is incorrect. Therefore, it's best to refer to it as a 3440x1440 monitor, or if you want to be more specific, you can call it a QHD monitor, meaning it's above HD and below UHD resolutions. Thus, the common QHD monitors nowadays include:- QHD: 2560x1440 - aspect ratio 16:9
- WQHD: 3440x1440 - aspect ratio 21:9
- Dual QHD: 5120x1440 - aspect ratio 32:9