The short version
Common delivery frames include 1280 × 720 for 720p, 1920 × 1080 for Full HD, 2560 × 1440 for 1440p and 3840 × 2160 for 4K UHD. Cinema 2K and 4K use wider 2048 and 4096 pixel containers.
What matters most
- The p label normally refers to vertical pixels for progressive video.
- 4K UHD and DCI 4K are not the same dimensions.
- Resolution alone does not determine quality; bitrate, codec and source matter.
How to apply it
- Choose a resolution supported by the destination.
- Match the intended aspect ratio and frame rate.
- Set bitrate according to motion, codec and quality target.
- Review the encoded output rather than judging the timeline preview.
Reference table
| Name | Dimensions | Pixels per frame |
|---|---|---|
| 480p widescreen | 854 × 480 | 0.41 MP |
| 720p HD | 1280 × 720 | 0.92 MP |
| 1080p Full HD | 1920 × 1080 | 2.07 MP |
| 1440p QHD | 2560 × 1440 | 3.69 MP |
| 4K UHD | 3840 × 2160 | 8.29 MP |
| 8K UHD | 7680 × 4320 | 33.18 MP |
Use exact dimensions and units in production notes; familiar labels can describe more than one standard.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Calling every 2048-pixel-wide frame 2K delivery.
- Increasing resolution while starving the encode of bitrate.
- Upscaling solely to make a low-detail source look sharper.
Continue with the right tool
Use a calculator to check the numbers against your own source and destination instead of relying on a generic preset.
Related guides
720p vs 1080p: Resolution, Pixel Count and File Size
Compare 1280×720 and 1920×1080 video, including pixel count, scaling, bandwidth and when each resolution makes sense.
Video quality and delivery1080p vs 4K: Pixels, Viewing Distance and Real-World Tradeoffs
Compare Full HD and 4K UHD by pixel count, display conditions, editing load, bitrate and storage before choosing a format.
Video quality and delivery2K vs 4K Resolution: Cinema Standards and Monitor Labels
Compare true DCI 2K and 4K with the looser 1440p and UHD marketing labels commonly used for monitors and video.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1440p the same as 2K?
It is often marketed that way for monitors, but DCI 2K is 2048 × 1080.
Does 4K have four times as many pixels as 1080p?
Yes. Both width and height double, so total pixels quadruple.
Which resolution should I export?
Use the destination specification and avoid exceeding source detail without a clear workflow reason.