Aspect Ratio Calculator
Calculate dimensions and aspect ratios for images and screens
Presets:
What is Aspect Ratio and Why Does It Matter?
Aspect ratio is the mathematical relationship between the width and height of an image or display. It doesn't define absolute size in pixels, but rather the shape of the visual area. Mastering aspect ratios is crucial to prevent image distortion (stretching or squishing) across different platforms.
Standard Ratios in the Digital Age
- 16:9 (Widescreen): The universal standard for YouTube videos, presentations, and modern television.
- 9:16 (Vertical): The dominant mobile format, used for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
- 1:1 (Square): Popularized by Instagram, ideal for feed posts that need to maintain balance.
- 4:3 (Academy/Retro): Used in classic photography and some tablet models optimized for reading.
How to Calculate Manually?
The calculation is based on the rule of three. If you have an original width (W1) and height (H1), and want to change to a new width (W2) while keeping the same shape:
Social Media Size Guide
Using the correct ratio prevents your content from being automatically cropped by platform algorithms:
- YouTube: 16:9 for landscape videos.
- Instagram Feed: 1:1 or 4:5 (portrait).
- LinkedIn/Facebook: 1.91:1 (shared links) or 1:1.
100% Local Privacy
Octovelo processes all aspect ratio simulations directly in your web browser using JavaScript. No dimensions or image data are ever transmitted to or stored on our servers. Your workflow remains completely private.