If you want to share a video across different channels you have to consider what formats and aspect ratios work the best for different platforms. For example, YouTube works better with horizontal/landscape videos, whereas social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok prefer vertical/portrait videos that are watched on a smartphone.
Changing the aspect ratio of a video is pretty easy and can be done using Podcastle’s video editor with a single click into 16:9, 2:1, 1:1, 4:3 and other ratios.
change aspect ratio of video
How to Change the Aspect Ratio of a Video
Record or Upload Your Video
Start by uploading your footage to the video editor workspace or recording new content in our online studio.
Change the Aspect Ratio
At the top of the editor you’ll see a drop-down menu with a list of different ratios, select the one you want to use.
Export and Share
Once your video is in the desired ratio, it’s as simple as clicking ‘export’ and choosing the quality size.
Our multi-track video editor is so easy to use you’ll actually enjoy editing videos! It works directly in your browser, meaning wherever you are you can access the tools and your files in our cloud-based platform.
AI Video Tools
As well as basic editing like changing the aspect ratio, we also offer transformative AI tools like Cinematic Blur to blur backgrounds, Eye Contact Fixer and audio enhancement like auto-leveling and noise reduction.
Drag and Drop Editing
Podcastle is very simple to use with a clean, uncluttered interface that makes it easy to quickly edit both long and short videos. Even if you have limited experience making videos, it’s easy to get started.
Why is video aspect ratio important?
The aspect ratio of a video matters because it determines how the video will be displayed on different screens and devices. It defines the relationship between the width and height of the video, influencing its visual composition and viewer experience. For example, a 16:9 aspect ratio is standard for widescreen TVs and YouTube, while a 1:1 ratio is commonly used for social media platforms like Instagram. An incorrect or incompatible aspect ratio can result in video distortion, black bars, or poor framing, affecting the overall quality and how the content is perceived by the audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to change the aspect ratio of a video without cropping?
To change the aspect ratio of a video without cropping, you can use software or online tools that add letterboxing or pillarboxing, which adjust the video’s frame to fit the desired aspect ratio without cutting out any part of the content. For instance, you can add black bars to the sides (pillarboxing) or top and bottom (letterboxing) of the video to change its dimensions. Tools like Podcastle allow you to modify the aspect ratio by resizing the video canvas while maintaining the full content. This way, the video remains intact, and the aspect ratio is adjusted to fit various screen formats.
How to change the aspect ratio of a video without losing quality?
To change the aspect ratio of a video without losing quality, you can use software that resizes the video canvas while preserving the original resolution and content. One effective method is to add letterboxing (black bars at the top and bottom) or pillarboxing (black bars on the sides) to adjust the aspect ratio without cropping or stretching the video. Tools like Podcastle allow you to change the aspect ratio by adjusting the output settings while keeping the video resolution intact. Make sure to export the video in a high-quality format to prevent any loss in visual clarity during the conversion process.
What are the most common aspect ratios?
The most common aspect ratios for video include 16:9, the standard for HD and 4K videos, widely used on platforms like YouTube, TVs, and computers, offering a widescreen view. 4:3 was once the standard for older televisions and monitors but is now mainly used for specific content like classic films. 1:1 is popular on social media platforms like Instagram for square posts, ideal for mobile viewing. 9:16 is the standard vertical aspect ratio used on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Stories, and Snapchat, optimized for mobile devices in portrait mode. Each aspect ratio is chosen based on the platform and how the video is intended to be viewed.
Can I change the aspect ratio of my video for free?
Yes, you can change the aspect ratio of your video for free using tools like Podcastle. The platform offers a free tier that allows you to modify the aspect ratio of your video by adjusting the canvas size, adding letterboxing or pillarboxing, and more. However, there are some limitations to the free tier, such as the availability of certain advanced features and export options. For more comprehensive editing or higher-quality exports, you may need to upgrade to a paid plan, but the free version still provides basic functionality for aspect ratio adjustments.
How do you calculate the aspect ratio of a video?
To calculate the aspect ratio of a video, divide the width of the video by its height. For example, if the video has a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, divide 1920 by 1080 to get the aspect ratio 16:9. The result will give you the aspect ratio in the form of width:height. If the numbers are not already in the simplest form, you can simplify them by finding the greatest common divisor (GCD) of both dimensions.
