Video File Size Calculator
Estimate video file size based on resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and duration. Perfect for planning YouTube uploads, calculating storage needs, and optimizing streaming quality.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your target video resolution (720p, 1080p, 4K, etc.)
- Choose your frame rate (30fps for standard, 60fps for smooth motion)
- Enter the video bitrate in Mbps (higher = better quality, larger file)
- Select audio bitrate (320kbps for high-quality audio)
- Enter your video duration in hours, minutes, and seconds
- Click "Calculate File Size" to see the estimated result
What is Video Bitrate?
Video bitrate measures how much data is processed per second of video, expressed in megabits per second (Mbps) or kilobits per second (kbps). Higher bitrates preserve more detail and produce better quality video, but result in larger file sizes. The optimal bitrate depends on resolution, frame rate, and content type. Fast-moving action requires higher bitrates than static talking-head videos. Modern codecs like H.265 (HEVC) and AV1 can achieve the same quality at lower bitrates than older H.264, making them more efficient for storage and streaming.
How File Size is Calculated
File Size (MB) = (Bitrate in Mbps x Duration in seconds x 8) / 8
Or more simply:
File Size (MB) = Total Bitrate (Mbps) x Duration (seconds) / 8
The division by 8 converts megabits to megabytes (8 bits = 1 byte).
Recommended Bitrates by Resolution
- 720p 30fps: 5-8 Mbps (YouTube: 5 Mbps)
- 1080p 30fps: 8-12 Mbps (YouTube: 8 Mbps)
- 1080p 60fps: 12-15 Mbps (YouTube: 12 Mbps)
- 1440p 30fps: 16-24 Mbps (YouTube: 16 Mbps)
- 4K 30fps: 35-45 Mbps (YouTube: 35-45 Mbps)
- 4K 60fps: 53-68 Mbps (YouTube: 53-68 Mbps)
Tips for Optimizing Video Size
- Use H.265/HEVC codec for 50% smaller files at same quality
- Lower frame rate to 24fps for cinematic content
- Use variable bitrate (VBR) encoding for efficient compression
- Match bitrate to content complexity (action vs. static)
- Consider streaming platforms' recommended settings