Video Resolution Calculator
Calculate resolution, bitrate, and storage requirements for any video project
Disclaimer: This tool provides estimates for video production. Actual results may vary based on codec efficiency, compression settings, and content complexity. Professional projects should consult with video engineers.
Tip: Use this to plan YouTube videos, film projects, or streaming setups.
Resolution Settings
Compression & Duration
Video Specifications
Resolution Details
Compression Details
Common Video Standards
Understanding Video Resolution & Bitrate
Resolution Basics
Resolution determines the pixel dimensions of your video (e.g., 1920×1080). Higher resolutions provide more detail but require more storage and bandwidth. Common standards include HD (720p), Full HD (1080p), 4K (2160p), and 8K (4320p).
Bitrate Essentials
Bitrate (measured in Mbps) determines video quality and file size. Higher bitrates preserve more detail but create larger files. Modern codecs like H.265 and AV1 provide better compression than older standards like H.264.
"For online streaming, a 1080p video typically requires 8-12 Mbps with H.264, but only 4-8 Mbps with H.265 at similar quality."
Optimizing Video for Different Platforms
Streaming Services
YouTube, Netflix, and Twitch have specific requirements. YouTube recommends 8 Mbps for 1080p at 30fps (H.264), while Netflix requires 15-25 Mbps for 4K content. Always check platform guidelines before uploading.
Social Media
Platforms like Instagram (3-6 Mbps) and TikTok compress videos aggressively. Vertical formats (9:16) perform best. For Stories/Reels, keep videos under 60 seconds with high contrast to stand out in feeds.
Professional Production
Editing workflows use high-bitrate codecs like ProRes (220+ Mbps) or DNxHD. These "mezzanine" codecs maintain quality through multiple edits. Final delivery typically uses compressed H.264/265 versions.
Pro Tip: When calculating storage needs, remember that 1 hour of 4K ProRes 422 HQ requires about 100GB, while the same duration in H.265 at 25 Mbps only needs about 11GB.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right resolution?
Consider your delivery platform and audience devices. For web use, 1080p is standard, while 4K is becoming common for premium content. Higher resolutions future-proof your content but require more resources to produce and view.
What's the relationship between resolution and bitrate?
Higher resolutions need higher bitrates to maintain quality. As a rule of thumb, double the resolution requires 4x the bitrate for similar quality. Modern codecs can reduce this relationship through better compression.
How does frame rate affect file size?
Higher frame rates (60fps vs 30fps) increase file size proportionally, as they contain more frames per second. Motion-heavy content benefits more from higher frame rates than static shots.
What's the difference between constant and variable bitrate?
Constant Bitrate (CBR) maintains the same data rate throughout, while Variable Bitrate (VBR) adjusts based on scene complexity. VBR typically offers better quality at smaller file sizes but requires more processing power.
How can I reduce video file size without losing quality?
Use modern codecs (H.265/AV1), optimal bitrates, and efficient encoding settings. Remove unnecessary metadata, consider shorter GOP lengths, and use 2-pass encoding for best results. Always keep a high-quality master file.