720p
720p is a video resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels with progressive scan, often called HD. It uses a 16:9 aspect ratio and has fewer than half the pixels of 1080p. 720p is a common middle step in streaming, offering clear video at a much lower bitrate than Full HD.
Why it matters
720p keeps video watchable on phones and average connections at a fraction of 1080p's data. It is often the level viewers actually receive on mobile networks, so it strongly shapes perceived quality. Leaving it out of a ladder forces players to jump from Full HD straight down to blurry SD.
How it works
- Each frame has 1280 pixels across and 720 rows, in a 16:9 shape.
- Encoders create a 720p version as a middle rung in the bitrate ladder.
- Players switch to 720p when bandwidth drops below what 1080p needs.
Is 720p HD?
Yes, 720p is HD (high definition), though it is the entry level of HD. 1080p is called Full HD, and 4K is Ultra HD. On a phone, 720p looks clear for most content. On a large TV, its lower detail becomes much easier to see.
720p vs 1080p: how big is the difference?
1080p has 2.25 times as many pixels as 720p, so it shows noticeably more detail on larger screens. On phones, the gap is small for most viewers. 720p needs much less bandwidth, which is why streaming services use it when connections are average or busy.
Where it's used
Video platforms, creator apps and short video apps rely on 720p as a middle quality level that looks clear on phones while using much less data than 1080p.
By the numbers
- YouTube recommends 5 Mbps for 720p SDR uploads at 24 to 30 fps and 7.5 Mbps at 48 to 60 fps. (YouTube recommended upload encoding settings)
