1080i vs. 1080p

So, what does 1080i or 1080i mean? When you see the p it stands for progressive scan. The i represents interlaced scan. Progressive scan draws every line in a picture with each frame refresh, and interlaced draws every other line.
The enhanced definition formats can be confusing, but it is generally agreed that 1080p is better, unless you buy a HDTV smaller than 42 inches because you may not notice the extra pixels on the smaller sets. For TVs larger than 42 inches 1080p

No matter what format you prefer you benefit with an HDTV set because you get twice the resolution as a standard TV. With high-def sets you also get the signal in a 16:9 aspect ration. This means that you lose those annoying black boxes that are forced on you when you watch a widescreen movie or show on a regular TV.