When native resolution is mentioned in a HDTV specification it is quoting the number of pixels contained in the fixed array of pixels that make up the display.

When a maximum resolution is quoted it is referring to the maximum resolution which can be scaled to fit the native resolution of the display. Normally a range of input video signal resolutions which can be scaled to the native resolution is quoted. Input video signals can be scaled both up and down to match the native resolution.

In general, current scaling processors shipping with HDTVs, projectors and other display devices are extremely fast and accurate. Most consumers are unaware that scaling is even taking place. The market segment that is most aware of scaling is the one that pushes display performance – gaming.

To obtain the best performance and image quality from a gaming console its output video signal resolution should be matched to the native resolution of the display device. This approach avoids any scaling lag and the possibility of any scaling artifacts.

HDTVs for Gaming