Simply put 1080p gives you far more pixels in the picture than 720p. To a rookie eye you may not notice a difference but 1080p will give you more color, sharpness, and clarity in the picture. 1080p is called "Full HD" so anything sporting the tag "Full HD" will look better on 1080 than 720 (Which all blu-ray players and video game consoles have the capability of "Full HD"). However, standard definition (480p) may be a little less shape and clear on 1080p vs. 720p. If you're going to put all that money into a new TV you might-as-well get the best and save room for improvement which is what 1080p allows