Video resolution explained
Resolution is the number of pixels in each frame. Names like 1080p or 720p describe the short side of the picture: a landscape 1080p video is 1920×1080, a vertical one 1080×1920. Converting to a lower resolution makes files much smaller and easier to play on older devices, email or slow connections.
Upscaling (for example 720p to 1080p) cannot add real detail, but some platforms or TVs expect a minimum resolution. Enable Allow upscaling only when you need it.
The converter automatically chooses a bitrate that suits the new resolution and frame rate. Use the Quality slider to trade size for sharpness; 60 is a good default for most videos.
Resolutions and recommended bitrates (H.264, 30 fps)
| Resolution | Landscape size | Typical bitrate |
|---|---|---|
| 4K (2160p) | 3840 × 2160 | 35–45 Mbps |
| 1440p | 2560 × 1440 | 16–24 Mbps |
| 1080p | 1920 × 1080 | 8–12 Mbps |
| 720p | 1280 × 720 | 5–7.5 Mbps |
| 480p | 854 × 480 | 2.5–4 Mbps |
| 360p | 640 × 360 | 1–1.5 Mbps |
Tips
- Need an exact file size instead? Use the Video Compressor.
- Need a size that is not a standard resolution, e.g. 1000×1000? Use the Video Resizer.
- Estimate the result beforehand with the Video File Size Calculator.
- Converting 60 fps to 30 fps roughly halves the bitrate needed for the same quality.