What’s the Difference Between QHD and 4K Resolution?

Let’s define each standard precisely before covering the significant differences in resolution, performance, pixel density, and hardware demands between QHD and 4K. Take a look at what is QHD vs. 4K:

What is QHD?

QHD resolution, also known as Quad High Definition, 1440p or Wide Quad HD, stands for a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It offers around 3.6 million pixels, making it a great choice for monitor sizes of 27 inches or larger.

QHD provides almost 1.8 times more pixels than 1080p (1920 x 1080), which allows greater sharpness and detail at standard monitor sizes without being as demanding as 4K.

What is 4K?

4K refers to a consumer display and video standard that defines a horizontal resolution of approximately 4,000 pixels. A 4K display has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels with an aspect ratio of 16:9. It offers around 8 million pixels, making it a great choice for displays sized 40 inches or larger.

Compared to 1080p, 4K quadruples the overall pixel count, resulting in unparalleled clarity and realism, but demanding hefty GPU power, especially for gaming or video editing.

Many people use “4K” and “UHD” interchangeably when referring to 2160p consumer displays. However, technically “UHD” is a broader term, encompassing a range of ultra-high-definition signals, including 4K.