1080i vs. 720p

[old_tv_nut]

The comparison was more distinct when using a CRT display that scanned in the native format of the capture. It was quite true that sports looked better in 720p (viewers particularly mentioned the difference on basketball games). Mostly-still images, on the other hand, had noticeably better horizontal resolution upon close examination.

Since flat panel displays all are longer persistence than CRTs, and native 1920x1080 flat panels require interlace to progressive conversion of some type, the comparison is muddied these days.