What does 4K UHD HDR Smart TV mean?

This one phrase has four different concepts: 4K, UHD, HDR and Smart TV. So let’s break it down.

4K resolution means the TV has approximately 4000 pixels horizontally, compared to the 1920 pixels on traditional HD TVs. This increased pixel count results in a sharper image, especially when viewed up close.

UHD (Ultra High Definition) is a term used to describe a video with a higher resolution than 1080p Full HD. UHD videos have a resolution of 3840×2160, four times the number of pixels found in 1080p video. For this reason, they are also sometimes called “4K”. 

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a technology that allows for increased detail in both the darkest and lightest areas of an image. This results in a more realistic image that is closer to what our eyes see in real life.

Smart TV simply means that the TV is connected to the internet and can run apps like Netflix or Hulu. 

4K and UHD Are Not The Same Thing. Here’s Why.

Almost every TV or monitor you see being advertised as 4K is also UHD. But wait… Didn’t I say they have different resolutions? Confusing? Yes, so let’s break that down a bit.

4K and UHD are used interchangeably because they both mean a horizontal resolution of around 4000 pixels. The “4K” designation comes from the movie industry, while TV manufacturers and broadcasters use “UHD”.

For some reason, TV manufacturers adopted “4K” in their marketing material, even though most use UHD panels. This caused a lot of confusion and led many people to believe that 4K and UHD are two different things.

They’re not.

4K and UHD both have the same resolution. The only difference is that 4K is used in reference to cinema, while UHD is used in reference to TV.

HDR Is Not The Same Thing As 4K or UHD

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a technology that allows for increased detail in both the darkest and lightest areas of an image. This results in a more realistic image that is closer to what our eyes see in real life.

HDR is not a resolution. It’s a way of processing an image to make it look better. 

4K and UHD are resolutions, referring to the number of pixels on a screen. HDR is not a resolution, but it can be used in conjunction with 4K or UHD to create a better-looking image.

Here’s an example:

Let’s say you have two TVs. One is 4K, and the other is 1080p. Both have HDR. The 4K TV will have more pixels, so it will look sharper when viewed up close. However, the 1080p TV with HDR will have better contrast and more realistic colors.

So, which one is better? It depends on your preferences. If you want the sharpest image possible, go for the 4K TV. If you want a more realistic image, go for the 1080p TV with HDR.

The Bottom Line

4K, UHD and HDR are all different things. 4K is a resolution, UHD is a term used to describe video with a higher resolution than 1080p Full HD. HDR is a technology that allows for increased detail in both the darkest and lightest areas of an image. 

Smart TV means that the TV is connected to the internet and can run apps like Netflix or Hulu. 

Now that you know the difference between 4K, UHD and HDR, you can make a more informed decision when shopping for a new TV.