Katarzyna Petru
The latest research from scientists at the University of Cambridge debunks one of the biggest myths about screen resolution: that the human eye cannot notice the difference between 4K and 8K. It turns out that it can — and quite clearly. According to a publication described, among others, by Tom’s Hardware, the average person can discern as much as up to 89 pixels per degree (the so-called pixels per degree), whereas earlier studies assumed a limit of around 60 PPD. This is a significant leap that could change the way we look at next-generation screens.
8K makes sense — but only if you're sitting close
Researchers have prepared a practical table showing at what distance and screen size our eyes can actually "see" additional details.
Example:
If you have a 50-inch TV and you're sitting 3 metres away from it, your eyes can distinguish details corresponding to a resolution of 1440p. In other words — 4K or 8K won't provide a visually better effect.
To really see the difference:
for 4K you need a screen 60 inches or larger,
for 5K — 100 inches,
and with 50 inches you need to sit a maximum of 2 metres from the TV to fully utilise 4K.
For 8K the distance shortens to 1 metre.
Monitors are a different story
When it comes to monitors, the rules change because we sit much closer — on average 40 cm from the screen.
At such distances, even 8K is not the limit. According to researchers, 16K on 30–40 inches still brings noticeable benefits in sharpness and detail, and with screens larger than 60 inches, even 32K would make sense. This means that huge panels, such as Acer Predator Z57 (57”, 8K), can actually offer real benefits for gamers and designers who work with graphics or very detailed images.
8K – who does it really matter to
On the other hand, if you're using a monitor mainly for browsing the web, doing office work, or watching movies, investing in 8K might be overkill. The benefits will mainly be seen by:
graphic designers, editors, and photographers,
gamers, especially in titles with realistic graphics,
technology enthusiasts and researchers testing new visual standards.
What about TV and VR?
The findings from the research are significant not only for monitors.
100” TVs and larger can actually benefit from higher resolutions — even above 8K.
VR headsets, with the screen close to the eye, require extreme pixel density – researchers indicate that 16K could provide a noticeable leap in quality.
In Summary
A new study from Cambridge shows clearly: the human eye sees more than previously thought.
In a world where many considered 8K a marketing gimmick, science says otherwise – the difference exists, you just need to know when it's noticeable.
The human eye can discern up to 89 pixels per degree.
8K makes sense for monitors and large TVs from the appropriate distance.
16K and 32K are a real future for VR and large screens.
