HD computer/laptop monitors?

[Phatferd]

I hear all this debate between 1080p and 1080i on smaller screens. Most people agree that 1080p on sub 32" screens doesn't make much of a difference. So my question is this...

With these new HD monitors (1920 x 1080) on these laptops 16" and 18", is it really worth it? Wouldn't a 1080i resolution on something that small look just as good? I'm asking because I don't want to overspend on an option that really isn't worth it. If I could save about $300 by going with a smaller screen resolution then I will, but I also want to be able to watch Blu-Rays when I travel in the best options available.

Thanks!

[dadkins]

It's not screen size, it's viewing distance and viewing angle.
From across the room, sure! A 17" screen is too small to see a difference.
From the 20 - 22" that I am away from my screen while sitting here, the viewing distance/angle is directly comparable to someone with a ~72" screen @ 8 feet viewing distance.

This VAIO, with it's 1920x1200 screen and factory Blu-ray (burner) drive, is Full HD 1080 and quite capable of 1080p display.

Many people seem to blur the line between HD and HT - High Definition and Home Theater.
They are not the same! Period!

Here:
http://www.myhometheater.homestead.c...alculator.html

Scroll down to the calculator.
Input 1.9 feet, 16:9 and 17" diagonal.
Click Calculate button

Just about right where it should be, huh?

Now, change distances to that of a HT(Home Theater) - 8 feet, 72" screen... Looks similar, huh?

From the proper viewing distance and if the machine has the power+screen resolution, 1080p in all it's glory, *CAN* be seen and appreciated on a 17" screen.