In the current digital era, video content has become an essential aspect of our lives. Video resolution plays a crucial role in our viewing experience. Video resolution has a big impact on the caliber of content. It is a crucial factor that streamers ignore. The amount of pixels that are visible on a screen is referred to as video resolution. It affects the clarity and detail of the video.
Simply, more resolution equals better quality. But processing it also uses up more bandwidth and computational resources. So, streamers need to be aware of the various video resolutions’ advantages and downsides.
This guide will examine the various video resolutions available from SD to 4K Ultra HD. It offers advice to assist broadcasters select the best resolution for their requirement. It also covers Aspect ratios, frame rates, bitrates, and other technical components of video resolution. Furthermore, the explanation of how they impact video quality!
This ultimate video resolution guide will provide you with the skills you need to produce top-notch video content. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an experienced streamer or a novice seeking to begin your streaming journey.
What is Video Resolution?
Video resolution means the number of dots, or pixels, in each video frame. The more pixels a video has, the more detail it will have and the clearer and more realistic it will look.
Technically speaking, video resolution is the size of an image measured in pixels, which are the tiny dots that make up a frame. The more pixels, or dots, an image has, the more data it has. More data equals better quality, a clearer picture, and more details. It’s important to know the terms for output if you want your videos to have the best mix of quality (resolution) and speed (bitrate).
To sum up, the resolution of a video is equal to the length of the pixel times the height of a pixel. 852 x 480 pixels is the number of pixels (or lines) in the video, and 480p is the name of the video’s overall progressive scan. Progressive scan is a way to display, store, and send video in which all the horizontal lines of each frame are drawn in order. A progressive scan video looks smoother than an interlaced scan video.
Understanding video resolution is important. Because it helps you choose the best settings for recording and exporting your videos for different platforms, such as social media or computer displays.
What is a Pixel?
A pixel is a tiny dot on a screen that can be adjusted to show different colors. Millions of pixels together make up an image or video on a device’s screen. Each pixel is made up of smaller subpixels that emit red, green, and blue colors at different levels of brightness.
A pixel is the smallest part of an image that can be changed. It is also called a picture element (pix = picture, el = element). Each pixel can look like more than a million different colors, and when they are all put together, they can make any shape or image. Pixels are like building blocks for digital images, and designers use them to create pictures on the screen.
In visual design, understanding how pixels work can help designers make better designs.
Relationship between Video Resolution and Pixel
Pixels and video resolution are related ideas. A video’s resolution tells you how many pixels make up a picture in the video. In simple terms, video resolution is pixels that make up a video image both horizontally and vertically. A higher video resolution uses more pixels to build an image, which makes the image clearer and more detailed.
A 1080p video resolution (1920×1080 pixels, for example) has 2,073,600 pixels, but a 4K video resolution (3840×2160 pixels) has 8,294,400 pixels. The pixels affect the quality of the video image. With more pixels, the image edits look more real and interesting.
How Video Resolution is Measured
The resolution of a video, which is the number of pixels in the image both horizontally and vertically, shows how good it is. Multiplying the width and height of the video, such as 1920 x 1080, gives the resolution.
The video will be clearer and have more details if the resolution is higher. This is important when capturing, editing, and watching videos because it affects how they look. 720p, 1080p, and 4K are all common video resolutions.
How Video Resolution Works
Video resolution is a crucial factor in determining the quality and level of realism of a video. Generally, the higher the resolution, the clearer the video appears. The standard aspect ratio of 16:9 is commonly used for computer monitors and televisions. It is used to measure resolution by counting the pixels.
The naming conventions for common resolutions such as 720p and 1080p refer to the number of pixels displayed in the vertical line of the screen. But, for 2K, 4K, and 8K videos, the resolution is determined by the number of pixels running in the horizontal line across the frame.
Understanding Aspect Ratio
To understand different types of video resolutions, it’s important to have a grasp of video aspect ratio and their significance.
Aspect ratios refer to the ratio of horizontal pixels (width) to vertical pixels (height). For instance, a device with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels has a 16:9 aspect ratio. 16:9 is the most commonly used aspect ratio for videos on the internet because it is supported by most devices, including television screens.
Understanding the aspect ratio is crucial because it affects the final display of the video. It ensures that cropping is not restricted where it shouldn’t be. A video with an aspect ratio of 1:1 will be displayed as a proportional square regardless of where it is displayed. So, knowing about video aspect ratios from the start helps you understand how the final video file format will be made and displayed on different screens.
Relationship between Aspect Ratio, number of Pixels, and Video Resolution
A video’s aspect ratio is the ratio of its width to its height, and it is closely tied to its pixel count and resolution. The pixel count is the total number of pixels in a video, while the video resolution is the total number of pixels horizontally and vertically. The different aspect ratios and resolutions impact the overall quality of the video and how it will appear on different displays.
The most common aspect ratio of most internet videos is 16:9, which is the standard for computer monitors, HD TVs, and television screens. Knowing the relationship between aspect ratio, pixels, and video resolution is critical for creating high-quality videos that appear good on a variety of platforms.
Different Types of Video Resolution (Video Quality)
Each new generation of video resolution offers superior enhanced visual effects compared to its forerunner. The classifications for different video resolutions depend on how they appear on screens. Commonly, we refer to them by their given names rather than dimensions.
Technical Types:
Spatial Resolution
- Spatial resolution and temporal resolution are the two categories that resolution can be divided into. Spatial resolution refers to the number of pixels present in an image, which is determined by its height and width.
Temporal Resolution
- Meanwhile, temporal resolution refers to the frame rate or the frequency at which frames are presented per second. Essentially, temporal resolution is a measure of resolution that changes over time.
It is important to note that spatial resolution is the default type of resolution.
Pixel-Based Types:
The various types of video resolutions are:
- Standard Definition (SD)
- High Definition (HD)
- Full HD
- QHD (Quad HD)
- 2K Resolution
- Ultra-High Definition (UHD) or 4K
- 8K Resolution
Each of these video resolutions has its own aspect ratio and number of pixels.
SD (Standard Definition)
In the past, video resolutions were segregated into two categories: SD (Standard Definition) and HD (High Definition). Videos with resolutions lower than 720p were classified as SD. However, with the progression of display resolutions on televisions and computer monitors, it is now rare for most videos to be captured in SD. As a result, the most used video resolutions have changed.
The most popular standard video resolutions include:
- 640 x 360 (or 360p)
- 640 x 480 (or 480p)
HD (High Definition – HD Video)
High Definition resolution means that a video has more pixels than a Standard Definition video. It makes the image sharper and clearer. It usually has 480 or 576 vertical lines, but most systems have more than that.
HD content is great for monitors and displays because it makes images look better and more real by showing more details. For example, high-speed cameras can sometimes take standard-definition pictures and videos at a faster rate, which is also HD. Full HD, or FHD, means that a video has more than 1080p.
HD videos usually have a resolution of:
- 1280 x 720 pixels (or 720p)
Full HD (FHD)
The widely accepted standard for achieving high-quality, non-space-consuming HD video is 1080p resolution. It is commonly referred to as ‘Full HD Resolution.’ It is worth noting that this common screen resolution is also very common among smartphones.
Full HD videos usually have HD resolutions of:
- 1920 x 1080 (or 1080p)
QHD (Quad HD)
QHD or Quad HD resolution is a prevalent feature among high-end smartphones and gaming monitors. It boasts 1440p resolution, which is four times higher than HD Ready or 720p HD. Many top-tier smartphones come equipped with Quad High Definition + resolution (296 x 1440), which matches the 1440p requirement.
QHD has a resolution of:
- QHD: 2560 x 1440 (or 1440p)
2K Video
Another frequently used screen resolution is 2K, which enables more space for larger displays and reframing without compromising image quality and editing capabilities.
2K videos have a resolution of:
- 2K: 2048 x 1080 (or 1080p)
4K Video or Ultra HD (UHD)
The resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, often known as 4K or UHD (Ultra High Definition), provides plenty of area for video editing and zooming in. 4K and 2K resolutions are perfect for vibrant coloring, graphics, and a cinematic experience. But they appear comparable.
Unless you intend to change the colors or crop in, the differences are minor and barely obvious. Resolution is important when fine-tuning precise features. But it is insignificant when viewed by others.
4K videos have a resolution of:
- 3840 x 2160 (or 2160p / just 4K)
8K Video or Full Ultra HD
The 8K Resolution is a very high-quality option. It removes the problem of pixelation when zooming in on far-away scenes and allows for amazing video effects. Few video makers or filmmakers use 8K, but they do for two reasons:
Firstly, it helps with visual effects because the extra pixels make it easier to use rotoscoping or green screens.
Secondly, it allows the footage to be cropped to a desirable close-up without ruining the quality.
8K videos have a resolution of:
- 7680 x 4320 (or 43200p / just 8K)
SD or HD: Which is the Best for Live Streaming
SD and HD are two types of video resolutions. Based on the number of pixels in each video frame, they differ in terms of video quality and bandwidth consumption.
HD video has more pixels per frame, resulting in improved video content quality with finer and sharper frames. SD video, but, has a lower pixel count, which results in low-resolution video, but they also have smaller file sizes and use less bandwidth. This speeds up the streaming of SD videos, especially on slower networks (slow internet connection).
As a result, the decision between SD and HD is determined by the video application’s specific requirements and constraints. For live streaming, the optimal right resolution is Standard Definition (SD).
Why is SD Better than HD for Live Streaming?
The quality of the video is an important part of the live-streaming experience for the viewer. Faces or objects that are too big or too small can make it hard to see what the video is trying to say. So, new streamers who are learning how to live stream should know about video resolution. Streamers should especially know the difference between SD and HD, and how it impacts the quality of a stream.
Even though we’ve come a long way since the days of 4:3 TV broadcasting and viewing, SD is still useful in the world of live streaming. SD is what most people think of as the lowest level of resolution for broadcasting and streaming. And while you could technically stream in lower resolutions like 144p, 240p, and 360p, you probably won’t want to go lower than SD at 480p.
But SD at 480p does have some good points. Its small size also means it uses less bandwidth, which could help you stream live even when your internet or upload speeds aren’t the best.
If you have a fast enough internet connection, both SD and HD should stream just as well. If your Internet connection is slow, SD is much better for you. SD requires less bandwidth to stream and will make streaming more reliable.
The resolution also impacts the size of the screen. So, watching a live stream on a smaller smartphone screen is different from watching it on a bigger digital TV screen. SD is a good choice in some situations, like when you want to live stream from your phone.
So, if you’re a first-time streamer looking for an easy way to live stream, think about platforms that can adjust the quality of your stream. So, you can focus on what you’re streaming. Well, Castr is the place to be!!
Best Video Resolutions for Multiple Streaming Platforms
Streaming your content to many platforms at once can be tough on your internet and computer. To make sure your stream works well, it’s best to use lower-quality settings when streaming to multiple social media platforms. This will lower the risk of technical problems and help your stream work smoothly on all social media platforms.
To make sure your stream is good quality, you need to think about how much internet you’re using. For example, streaming at 720p needs 6 Mbps, while 1080p needs 13 Mbps. But the actual numbers might be different for you. When you’re trying to make your stream better, you must decide how much quality you want versus how well your stream works. Lower-quality videos need less information and will load faster, with fewer resource demands.
If your live video is lagging, you can make it better by using a lower resolution. For example, switching from 1080p to 720p could be helpful.
Best Video Resolution for YouTube
When it comes to aspect ratio for YouTube video resolution, the ideal resolutions are 720p and 1080p. While YouTube accepts various media formats with differing dimensions, adhering to the 16:9 aspect ratio for your YouTube videos is essential.
Common 16:9 aspect ratio resolutions include 1920 x 1080 pixels and 1280 x 720 pixels. As a result, 720p and 1080p resolutions are optimal choices.
Best Video Resolution for Instagram
To ensure the best viewing experience for in-feed videos and in-feed video ads on Instagram, upload the video with the minimum video resolution that complies with aspect ratio and file size restrictions. Additionally, ensure that the width of the Instagram videos is a minimum of 500 pixels. For carousel ads on Instagram, the recommended size is 1080 x 1080p, while the minimum size is 600 x 600p.
When it comes to video ads on Instagram stories, upload the highest resolution video that meets aspect ratio and file size requirements. Furthermore, ensure that the width is greater than 500 x 889p with an aspect ratio ranging from 16:9 to 4:5 and 9:16.
Best Video Resolution for Facebook
The answer to this question varies depending on what you’re creating. For Facebook feed videos and in-stream video ads, it is recommended to use the highest resolution that meets the ratio limits and file size. The minimum width for these videos is 120 pixels, and the supported aspect ratios include 16:9 for horizontal and 9:16 for the full portrait.
Facebook carousel video ads need at least 1080 x 1080p resolution with an aspect ratio of 1:1. When it comes to Facebook 360 videos, the maximum video size is 5120 x 2560p for monoscopic videos and 5120 x 5120p for stereoscopic videos and interlaced video.
Best Video Resolution for Tiktok
Because TikTok clips are designed to match the app’s full-screen viewing format, the optimal aspect ratio is 9:16. A video resolution of 1080p is recommended for the optimum watching experience.
How to Change the Resolution of a Video?
There are several possibilities to consider if you need to change the resolution of your video files. For example, if you intend to move a video from your computer to a mobile device or upload it to an internet platform, the resolution may need to be reduced. If you want to burn a video to a DVD, you may need to increase the resolution to match the disc’s capabilities. Fortunately, there are numerous tools and apps available to aid you in altering the higher resolution of your video as needed.
There are several ways to alter the resolution of a video. It includes using a video converter to change the resolution and using a video compressor to decrease the resolution. Also, it includes changing the resolution of the video and saving it in a different video format. You can choose the way that best meets your needs whether you want to enhance or decrease the video resolution.
DaVinci Resolve is a user-friendly tool that I suggest. This user-friendly video editor allows you to simply change and convert video resolution. It is unusual in that. it includes editing, color correction, visual effects, motion graphics, and audio post-production all in one software package. DaVinci Resolve’s sleek and stylish UI makes it simple to understand and use whether you’re a beginner or a master.
How to Improve Video Resolution?
Wondering how to improve video quality?
We’ve all experienced moments when the quality of a video isn’t what we’d like it to be. The issue is particularly severe on mobile devices, where an unsteady hand, poor lighting, or low-quality hardware can damage a recording.
How to make a low-quality video look better? How to fix the quality of the video?
Try these methods to enhance video quality with ease:
Increase Video Resolution:
- Raising the Resolution of a Low-Quality Video: Raising the resolution of a low-quality video is an extremely effective means of boosting its visual attractiveness. This can be accomplished by converting standard definition (SD) to high definition (HD) or HD to ultra-high definition (UHD) (UHD).
Adjust the Bitrate:
- Aside from resolution, raising a video’s bitrate is an excellent approach to increasing its quality. The bitrate, or the number of bits processed in each time unit, has a direct impact on the video attribute. Besides, this comes at the expense of a larger video file size.
Colour Grading:
- Another technique that can improve the appearance and feel of a video is colour grading. Changing the brightness, contrast, hue, and other colour parameters in the video can assist generate a better balance of light, shadows, and colours.
Apply Filters:
- Filters and effects can give your video a more polished and professional appearance.
Stabilize Shaky Videos:
- Even if you shot a 4K Ultra HD video with excellent lighting, wobbly footage could make it unwatchable. This problem can be mitigated by using stabilizing software.
Increase Audio Quality:
- Noise in a video can be easily captured and might be annoying to viewers. You can increase the audio quality by removing extraneous noise with software such as VideoProc Converter.
Experience superior video with these top-rated software tools. They are specially designed to enhance your video footage and provide crystal-clear images. These five exceptional software tools are among the best in the industry for increasing video project quality. Each one possesses the unique ability to refine and polish your videos to perfection:
- VideoProc Converter
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- After Effects
- Final Cut Pro X
- Blender
Furthermore, what makes using a video enhancer advantageous?
A video enhancer offers a plethora of features that can revitalize your footage. While not every application will provide all these features, you can typically anticipate a range of the following:
- Upscaled resolution
- Better lighting
- Improved stability
- De-noising
- Brightness adjustments
- Cropping, rotating, and flipping
- Filters
- Effects and animations
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Does Higher Resolution Mean Better Quality?
The resolution of digital images, photos, and videos, which specifies the number of pixels per inch, can be used to assess their visual quality (PPI). A greater resolution means more pixels, which results in a high-quality, sharp image with more visual information. Poor-quality resolutions have fewer pixels, which may become clear if stretched too far.
The resolution is sometimes associated with quality which also includes features such as colours, shadows, and lighting. Excessively high resolutions might result in large file sizes. Excessively low resolutions can result in unclear or pixelated images.
How to Check the Resolution of a Video?
You can generally locate the resolution of a video in the attributes or settings of the video. On a PC, right-click on the video file, select “Properties” and then “Details”. Check for the “Resolution” or “Dimensions” section to get the video’s height and width in pixels.
Go to the video’s details or settings on a smartphone or tablet and search for the resolution information. The resolution may also be displayed on the toolbar or options menu of the video player. Understanding the resolution of a video is vital if you need to guarantee that it fits specific standards for uploading, distributing, or displaying on specific devices or platforms.
Can I Increase the Video Resolution?
People who want to improve the quality of their videos often use video conversion software or a video editor. But it’s important to remember that converting a low-quality video to a higher resolution won’t make it look better. This process can make the video quality worse. Because some of the original data is lost during recording and can’t be recovered. Trying to increase the resolution of a low-quality video usually results in an even worse final product.
But, there is a solution called deep learning super-resolution technology. It can enhance video details. AVCLabs Video Enhancer AI is one example of this technology. It upgrades video resolution without sacrificing the original quality and details. This method enlarges each frame using information from nearby frames. It extracts maximum details and produces exceptional results.
