Before I can explain the difference between 1080p and 2160p, please let me clarify what they are.
1080p and 2160p refer to a technical term called 'resolution'. Computers, Tvs and pretty much every display device has a resolution.
And the resolution refers to how many pixels are in that display.
So, they are both resolution but... Is 1080p the same as 2160p?
Is 1080p the same as 2160p?
The short answer is no. This is why:
1080p resolution
1080p is a common resolution, it contains 1920 pixels (wide) and 1080 pixels (height). It is sometimes called 'full HD'.
2160p resolution
2160p contains 3840 pixels (wide) and 2160 pixels (height). It can also be called 4K.
Pixel count
Total number of pixels
2k: 3686400 pixels. (More than 3 million pixels)
2160p: 8294400 pixels. (More than 8 million pixels)
Comparing vertical pixels
2160p has 2160 vertical pixels and 2k has 1440 pixels. So 2k has less vertical pixels than 2160p.
Comparing horizontal pixels
2160p has 3840 horizontal pixels and 2k has 2560. Thus 2k has less horizontal pixels than 2160p.
Which is better 2k or 2160p?
Technically speaking, 2160p is always better. In other words, 2160p has higher image quality than 2K.
But it may not be the best for your budget.
I've compiled a few examples to help you understand the difference.
Security camera example
Tip: Turn on the caption button if you need it. Choose “automatic translation” in the settings button, if you are not familiar to the english language. You may need to click on the language of the video first before your favorite language becomes available for translation.
Gaming example
Smartphone example
Computer monitor example
Webcam example
Video: Is Full HD enough at 27-inch? (1080P vs ...
If you are a visual or audio person, have a look at this related Youtube video:
