Learn how video aspect ratio influences your video performance and best video aspect ratios for your social media videos. Also, discover the best video hosting platform perfect for your brand!
Ever wondered why the same video looks different on your phone versus your TV?
Often, the same videos could appear stretched or having black bars on the side which makes viewing frustrating. This happens when the video aspect ratio isn’t applied properly.
Whether you’re creating videos for social media, shooting a short film, or curious about how your movies fit into your screen perfectly, understanding how video aspect ratio works can be a game changer and enable you to create stunning videos.
That said, in this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about video aspect ratio which includes common aspect ratio and resolutions as well as their applications. Also, the best aspect ratios for social media, and how to change aspect ratios on different softwares and tools.
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- A video content could appear stretched, cropped, having black bars or a perfect fit, depending on what video aspect ratio was used when creating the video.
- Did you know viewers retain 95% of a message when watching it on video vs 10% through text? And your video quality influences these results. Therefore, paying close attention to your video aspect ratio is a good start.
- When you don’t pay attention to the aspect ratios used for your videos, your video is at risk of cropping, distortion, black bars, unprofessional appearance, reduced engagement and poor user experience.
- Your chosen video hosting platform alters how the video aspect ratios of your video is displayed, as your hosted platform can affect your video fit, quality, add black bars, or limit playback for your viewers.
- Adilo natively supports vertical and square videos, it has a 1-click option to enable auto-aspect ratio in your project settings: https://share.zight.com/2NuozgP7 – if enabled, whenever you upload a video, it will detect the aspect ratio of the video and auto-adjust to it.
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What is Video Aspect Ratio?
Video aspect ratio is the proportional relationship between a video’s width and its height.
It’s usually expressed with two numbers separated by a colon of which the first number represents the width and the second number represents the height, for instance, 16:9 for widescreen or 4:3 for fullscreen.
The aspect ratio of a video determines how your video will appear on different devices and platforms. A video content could appear stretched, cropped, having black bars or a perfect fit, depending on what video aspect ratio was used when creating the video.
Common Aspect Ratio and Their Applications
Common Aspect Ratio. Credit: Movavi
Did you know viewers retain 95% of a message when watching it on video vs 10% through text? And your video quality influences these results.
Therefore, paying close attention to your video aspect ratio is a good start. Here are the common video aspect ratio used in today’s video production and where they are best applied:
16:9 (Widescreen)
16:9 is the video aspect ratio for widescreen which is the most common aspect ratio used today for a wide range of video content. It’s a widescreen video format where the width is almost twice the height. 16:9 is applicable to YouTube videos, modern HDTVs, streaming services, and most slides on powerpoint or Google.
9:16 (Vertical)
9:16 is the flip side of the 16:9 video aspect ratio used for vertical content. It’s applicable to most social media platforms like instagram stories, reels, Tikok, and Facebook stories.
1:1 (Square)
1:1 is a perfect square video aspect ratio where the width and height are the same. Square videos are perfect for Instagram feeds and facebook posts and ads.
4:3 (Fullscreen)
4:3 was the standard fullscreen video aspect ratio for televisions before widescreen became the normal. 4:3 appears to be more square-like although rectangular. Pre-2000s Tv shows and movies were recorded in 4:3 video aspect, likewise, many old surveillance cameras and projectors.
5.4 (Wide)
5:4 is a wide video aspect ratio that is slightly taller than 4:3 which was often used for older LCD computer monitors, although some professional cameras also use 5:4 aspect ratio.
4.5 (Tall)
4:5 is a portrait style video aspect ratio where the height is taller than the width making it perfect for viewing on mobile devices. Applicable to Instagram and Facebook Ads.
21:9 ( Cinematic Widescreen)
21:9 is an extra wide video aspect ratio that mimics the cinematic widescreen format used in the theaters or on ultra-wide monitors. The 21:9 aspect ratio is referred to by different names in filmmaking which includes Panavision, CinemaScope (2:35:1) or Anamorphic (2:39:1).
Video Aspect Ratio Vs Video Resolution
Aspect ratio and resolution are two different yet intertwined aspects of a video production.
Video aspect ratio is simply the proportional relationship between a video’s width and height which determines how a video appears on different screens.
However, video resolution is the number of pixels that make up a video expressed as width X height in pixels such as 1920 X 1080 or 3840 X 2160.
Video resolution affects the display clarity of a video content especially on larger screens. The higher the resolution of a video, the more pixels and clear image the video will display.
For instance, a 1080p (1920 X 1080) video has a clear display compared to a 720p (1280 X 720) video although both videos can have the same 16:9 aspect ratio.
Common Video Resolution and Their Applications
common video resolution
Video resolution has a great influence on the quality of your video produced which in turn affects your viewers experience. Here are common video resolution and their applications:
1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
1920 x 1080 is also known as full HD with 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically in a 16:9 aspect ratio. This video resolution is best applicable to YouTube video, HDTVs, cable and satellite broadcasts. Likewise, perfect for gaming and video conferencing like video calls or live streaming. Also, most smartphones, DSLRs and Camcorders record video at 1920 x 1080 resolution.
3840 x 2160 (UHD)
3840 x 2160 is also known as Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 2160p resolution which often has a 16:9 video aspect ratio.
This resolution has 3840 pixels horizontally and 2160 pixels vertically. 3840 x 2160 resolution is perfect for modern streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, likewise widescreen television.
4096 x 2160 (4K UHD)
4096 x 2160 is also known as DCI 4K resolution with an aspect of 1.90:1 used in digital cinema and movie production. It comes with a slightly wider aspect ratio than UHD and 16 x 9 aspect ratio.
Oftentimes, thick black bars (letter box) are seen on the top and bottom on a standard 16:9 device to maintain the original video aspect ratio without distortion.
Best Video Aspect Ratios for Social Media Videos
When you don’t pay attention to the aspect ratios used for your videos, your video is at risk of cropping, distortion, black bars, unprofessional appearance, reduced engagement and poor user experience.
Hence, here are best video aspect ratios for social media videos that ensure your every video suits into the intended platform and users:
The standard video aspect ratio for Facebook videos is 1:1 and 16:9 while 9:16 is best for Facebook stories and ads.
The recommended video aspect ratio for Instagram videos is either a 1:1, 4:5, 9:16 or 16:9. However, use 9:16 for Instagram stories or reels and 4:5 for Instagram posts.
TikTok
9:16 vertical aspect ratio is recommended for all TikTok videos.
1:1 is the recommended video aspect ratio for Twitter feed while 16:9 is best for landscape Twitter videos.
The recommended video aspect ratio for LinkedIn is 9:16 and 16:9
YouTube
16:9 widescreen is a perfect video aspect ratio for YouTube videos and 9:16 vertical is best for YouTube shorts.
How to Change the Aspect Ratio of a Video
How to video change aspect ratio
How to change the aspect ratio of a video varies across several video editing softwares and apps. Here is how to change the aspect ratio of you videos on top video softwares:
Using Adobe Premiere Pro
Step 1: Import your video into Premiere Pro editing interface
Step 2: Chose ”sequence setting” by right clicking on the video timeline and setting a preset like 1080p or 720p
Step 3: Locate the ‘frame size” and enter your intended aspect ratio for instance 1920 x 1080 for 16:9 aspect ratio
Step 4: Save your changes
Using Final Cut Pro
Step 1: On Final Cut Pro dashboard select the video you want to edit and navigate to “Inspector panel”
Step 2: In the settings under the video format section, adjust your video aspect ratio by changing the resolution. For instance 4096 x 2160 for 1.90:1 aspect ratio
Step 3: Ensure it suits you taste and save
Using iMovie (Mac/iOS)
Step 1: On you dashboard, select the video you want to edit and click the crop tool above the preview window
Step 2: To change the video aspect ratio, select the “crop to fill” tool to adjust video’s framing
Step 3: Save your change
Using Online Tool (Kapwing and Clideo)
Step 1: Upload your video to Kapwing and Clideo dashboard
Step 2: Select the aspect ratio you intend for your video using preset options like 16:9, 9:16, or 1:1
Step 3: Make necessary corrections and adjust the video’s frame and save your changes
Using Mobile App (Inshot and Video Editor)
Step 1: Upload your video to Inshot and Video editor dashboard
Step 2: Navigate the aspect ratio settings
Step 3: Choose your desired preset option (16:9, 4:3, 4:5, 9:16)
Step 4: save your changes
Recommended Platforms to Host Your Videos
Your chosen video hosting platform alters how the video aspect ratios of your video is displayed.
Your hosted platform can affect your video fit, quality, add black bars, or limit playback for your viewers. All of these can reduce the performance of your video. Hence, here are top recommended platforms to host your videos:
Adilo
Adilo is a popular video hosting service in the market, and stands out as the ultimate video hosting platform as it offers you unlimited hosting, top notch security and editing options without needing external softwares or tools.
When you sign up to Adilo hosting, you get access to ad-free premium streaming, unlimited bandwidth, customization options, standard analytics, Podcast hosting, comprehensive dashboard and lots more.
This explains why Adilo is trusted by more than 10,000 businesses, creators, educators, marketers, podcasters and brands from all around the world for seamless hosting services.
Additionally, when it comes to video aspect ratio, Adilo isn’t left behind. Adilo natively supports vertical and square videos, it has a 1-click option to enable auto-aspect ratio in your project settings: https://share.zight.com/2NuozgP7 – if enabled, whenever you upload a video, it will detect the aspect ratio of the video and auto-adjust to it. This makes Adilo the best platform to host your videos.
Here is a glance of Adilo key features:
- Hosting, manage and share video
- Unlimited video and audio hosting
- Multiple format support
- 4K quality for every frame
- Automatic video transcription and translation
- Embed videos in emails
- Private and secure video hosting
- In-browser video and audio recording and editing
- Compatible with all major email platforms including Gmail, Mailchimp, Outlook and more.
- Collaboration features for teams
- Fast, device-compatible video playback
- Video split testing
- Ad-free streaming
- In-video CTA tools
- Built-in video and audio recorder
- Video and audio content scheduler
- Video monetization option
- Real-time video analytics for data-driven decisions
- Podcast recording, hosting and distribution
- Multi-channel content embedding for wider reach
- High-converting landing pages with integrated CTA buttons and links
- Advanced video SEO capabilities
Vimeo
Vimeo is yet another reputable video hosting platform, offering you quality and customization options. It has a boost of 230 million users from more than 190 countries making it ideal if you want to increase your brand visibility and awareness.
Also, you get an ad-free video streaming which results in seamless video viewing and increased user experience. With vimeo you get access to live streaming and rich analytics tracking. Unfortunately, it doesn’t provide you with unlimited video and podcast hosting or built-in split testing tools like Adilo.
Wistia
Wistia is also a recommended platform to host your video as a video creator or marketer. Wistia gives you access to ad-free streaming, video and screen recording options, seamless team collaboration, interactive call-to-action tools, and advanced privacy and security features which all guarantee you a seamless hosting experience.
However, it doesn’t come with unlimited hosting and advanced editing tools like Adilo, its pricing could also be a drawback, if you’re on a low budget.
YouTube
YouTube is a popular video hosting platform that is entirely free with about 4.95 billion active monthly users. If you’re looking to host your video publicly, and aren’t bothered about privacy and don’t want to incur any cost, YouTube is recommended for you as it exposes your content to a vast global audience at a free rate.
However, with its free hosting services comes restrictions and limitations like ads displayed on your video, and lack of anti-video privacy. Hence, users might need to subscribe to YouTube premium to enjoy an ad-free experience.
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FAQs
What video ratio is 1920 x 1080?
1920 x 1080 is a video resolution that corresponds to the aspect ratio 16:9 widescreen format.This video resolution is best applicable to YouTube video, HDTVs, cable and satellite broadcasts. Likewise, perfect for gaming and video conferencing like video calls or live streaming. Also, most smartphones, DSLRs and Camcorders record video at 1920 x 1080 resolution.
What is the best aspect ratio for video?
16:9 video aspect ratio is the most commonly used aspect ratio as it suits most platforms including TVs, streaming platforms, monitors and social media platforms. However, the best aspect ratio depends on your video intended platform as different platforms may require different aspect ratios.
Is 1920 x 1080 the same as 16:9?
Yes, 1920 x 1080 resolution is the same as 16:9 aspect ratio. This means that for every 16 units of width, there are 9 units of height, equating to a standard widescreen format applicable to most modern displays.
Can I change the aspect ratio of a video after it’s recorded?
Yes, you can change the aspect ratio of a video after it’s recorded by using video editing software and applications. However, keep in mind that changing the format may result in cropping which could lead to the loss of some part of the original video content.
What happens if I use the wrong aspect ratio?
When you use the wrong aspect ratios, your video is at risk of cropping, distortion, black bars, unprofessional appearance, reduced engagement and poor user experience.
Final Thoughts On Video Aspect Ratio
The perfect video aspect ratio for your videos is determined by the intended platform you want to share your video.
For instance, 9:16 vertical aspect ratio is recommended for your TikTok videos, but would lead to poor viewer experience when used for twitter, where a 1:1 is the recommended for Twitter feed while 16:9 is best for landscape Twitter videos.
However, feel free to experiment with different video aspect ratios to know which suits your content perfectly. Also, more than one video aspect ratio may be supported by some platforms which will give you more room to use different aspect ratios.
Additionally, your video hosting platform has its influence on the results of your video aspect ratio.
Hence, I recommend Adilo hosting platform that grants you unlimited hosting, full customization options, advanced editing and rich analytics.
Experience: Happiness Hassan is an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.
Expertise: Whether it's keyword research, crafting content, or fine-tuning on-page and off-page strategies, I’ve got you covered. My goal is beyond driving traffic but making your users experience a win-win for everyone!
On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers. I help them navigate the SEO path, standing out in even the toughest niches and cashing in on their skills.
When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential.
Education: Complementing my BSc. Geography and Environmental Management from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, I have honed my skills as an SEO content writer and strategist through comprehensive training at Northpad, where I gained expertise in crafting optimized content to boost search engine visibility. As a certified student of Jobberman Soft Skills Training, I developed strong communication and problem-solving skills, which complement my SEO proficiency.
My dedication to continuous personal learning and online training keeps me updated with the latest industry trends, enabling me to create content that aligns with the ever-evolving demands of search engines and user experiences. I stay connected with top experts to ensure my strategies remain current and effective.
Felix is the Senior Content Editor and Strategist at Adilo, where he harnesses his expertise in social video marketing, online video platforms, video editing, e-commerce, e-learning, and marketing to to help businesses drive results. With a keen eye for storytelling and a pulse on industry trends, Felix crafts actionable content that empowers brands to elevate their video marketing strategies and thrive in the digital landscape.
