In this paper, an overview is given of the radar benefits of digital arrays in comparison with conventional phased arrays. Considered are passive and active phased arrays as well as subarray- and element-level digital arrays; their key differences are highlighted. A discussion of several radar attributes and performance measures follows to show the advantages and promise of element-level digital arrays as the newest generation architecture for radar and other electronic systems. Radar attributes considered are antenna patterns and beam control (including adaptive interference cancellation), dynamic range, in-band linearity, system phase noise, and angle measurement accuracy.