What You Need to Know About Video Frame Rate

Frame rate, also known as frames per second (fps), is the number of consecutive images displayed on the screen every second. Each frame is a single still image, and when displayed quickly in sequence, these frames create the perception of motion. A higher frame rate generally results in smoother video playback, while a lower frame rate can make the motion appear choppy. Frame rate can also be expressed in hertz (Hz), which refers to the frequency at which frames are displayed. Understanding frame rate is essential for producing videos that look professional and play smoothly on different devices.

Different types of content and devices use standard frame rates to achieve the best visual results. Movies for the big screen are typically filmed at 24 or 30 fps to balance smooth motion with the cinematic look. Video games often run between 30 and 60 fps to provide responsive gameplay and fluid animation. High-speed recordings, such as wildlife footage or sports slow motion, can reach 180 fps to capture every detail.

Television standards vary worldwide. There are two types of Norm (PAL & NTSC) in the world:

PAL / SECAM:

SD 720×576 → 25 fps
HD 1920×1080 → 30 fps

NTSC:

SD 720×480 → 30 fps
HD 1920×1080 → 25 fps

💡 When the frame rate drops below 20 fps, the motion appears noticeably choppy to the naked eye. If it falls below 10 fps, playback becomes very stuttered. Higher frame rates can improve smoothness but also increase file size, so it is important to choose an fps that balances quality and file efficiency.

Frame rate has a direct impact on how smooth and natural a video appears. We can clearly see the effect of frame rates using a sample video converted to GIFs: (the program also lets you convert videos to GIFs)

2 fps - A video running at 2 fps displays only two images per second, which makes the motion extremely choppy. The movement looks almost like a slideshow with significant jumps between frames, and it can be uncomfortable or confusing to watch. This frame rate is generally unsuitable for any normal video playback and is usually only used for special effects or extremely low-bandwidth situations.

10 fps - At 10 fps, the video becomes noticeably smoother compared to 2 fps. You can see more continuous motion, and small details become easier to follow. Some slight stuttering may still occur during fast motion, but for casual viewing, this frame rate is acceptable. Videos at this frame rate are also smaller in file size, making them practical for situations where storage or bandwidth is limited.

30 fps - When the frame rate reaches 30 fps, playback is smooth and natural. The motion appears fluid, and all details are clearly visible. This frame rate is ideal for movies, online videos, and standard playback devices. It is particularly beneficial for content that includes slow motion or fast action scenes, where every frame contributes to a clear and professional-looking video. Using 30 fps ensures a comfortable viewing experience and is the standard for most high-definition content.

💡 By adjusting your video to the appropriate frame rate using HD Video Converter Factory Pro, you can significantly improve the viewing experience and make your videos compatible with a wide range of devices.