July 2024

Video Resolution Standard Definitions

• SD (standard definition) 720p x 480px. (for NTSC) the broadcasting standard before HD was invented. Generally considered low quality by today's standards.
• HD (high definition aka 720p) 1280 x 720px. Consider higher quality than SD is mainly suitable for Internet, Social Media and DVD's. Good for live streaming because of it's low resource requirements.
• Full HD (full high definition aka 1080p) 1920 x 1080px. Considered the high quality standard for YouTube and web distribution. The most widely used standard for video marketing and social media.
• QHD (Quad high definition) 2560 x 1440px offer higher detail and sharper visuals. Are used in computer monitors and some smartphones. Offers a larger display screen. Can be used in videography to get a wider angle shot.
• UHD (Ultra high definition aka 4k) 3840 x 2160px. Offers higher quality for video streaming, video production and social networking. Widely used for professional video production.
• FUHD (Full Ultra high definition aka 8k) 7680 x 4320px is the highest quality standard. Is used for high end broadcast quality like major sporting events and broadcasting. Unparalleled sharpness and detail. But requires the most power, storage space and expensive hardware.
• 2.6k (16:9 aka widescreen) 2688 x 1512px. Used for cinema projection.
• Anamorphic 2880 x 2160px has an extremely wide viewing angle and requires special camera lenses.
• Square typically 600px square. Used on some social media platforms.
• Vertical 1080 x1920px. Used for smartphone vertical orientation. Is a ratio of 9:16 or 9 units wide by 16 units high Used for YouTube #shorts videos.