Understanding UHD and ATSC 3.0: Is It Worth the Cost?

At least in the United States, it has only been a few weeks since the FCC has approved the ATSC 3.0 standard. This new set of guidelines governs how terrestrial broadcasters will deliver Ultra High Definition (UHD) content and other new features to consumers. However, as the adoption of ATSC 3.0 is currently voluntary, the transition to UHD content is likely to be gradual.

ATSC 3.0 Deployment in the U.S.

At least one major over-the-air television network in the United States, Sinclair Broadcast, has begun a nationwide ATSC 3.0 deployment. If you are in an area serviced by Sinclair, you can start experiencing UHD content.

Alternatives to Over-the-Air Terrestrial Television

Leading television streaming platforms like DirectTV/ATT Dish, Netflix, Amazon, iTunes VUDU, YouTube, and UltraFlix all offer UHD video content, making it easier for viewers to access higher quality content regardless of where they are. Additionally, Sony PlayStation Video, Sony’s Ultra streaming service, Fandango NOW, Google Play, and Xfinity are also platforms that deliver UHD content.

Quality in Wired Formats

If you buy a UHD Blu-ray player or have a console that can play UHD Blu-ray disks, this is another way to get UHD content at home.

Is It Worth the Price?

The worthiness of the investment depends on several factors, including your viewing habits and the extent to which you want to be on the bleeding edge of technology.

For Large Screens and Close Viewing

If you prefer either very large screens and/or you tend to view TV seated very close to the screen, a UHD investment might be worthwhile. UHD content on a UHD screen offers significantly improved visual quality, providing a more immersive viewing experience.

HDR and WCG for Customers Not Relying on UHD/4K

HDR (High Dynamic Range) video, which provides improved contrast range and allows you to see into brights without losing detail, and WCG (Wide Color Gamut), which provides a greater variety and vibrancy of colors, may offer a better cost/benefit option for those not interested in UHD/4K.

HDR and WCG can exist in a UHD/4K program or in a high-definition program. However, HDR/WCG set compatibility is primarily found on new UHD TVs, meaning even if you are not interested in UHD/4K viewing, you might wind up purchasing a new UHD capable TV just to get HDR/WCG in a HD resolution.

The Context of HDR Systems

Currently, there are a number of HDR systems, most of which are not cross-compatible with other HDR systems. Some TV manufacturers only support one or a limited number of HDR formats. This resemblance to the VHS/Betamax wars is still evident, making it unclear which HDR system will prevail.

While many factors come into play when considering the purchase of a UHD or HDR-equipped television, one should evaluate their viewing habits, budget, and the extent to which they desire to be at the forefront of home entertainment trends.

In conclusion, whether it is worth the price of a UHD TV depends on individual preferences and viewing habits. To fully enjoy UHD content, one must also have an appropriate viewing environment that supports the technology. As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about new developments in UHD and HDR technology remains crucial.