What is FPS?
FPS means frames per second: the number of individual images shown each second of video. Common frame rates include 24, 25, 30, 50, and 60 FPS. The right choice depends on how footage was recorded, the desired motion style, the destination platform, and whether slow motion is part of the edit.
24 vs 30 vs 60 FPS
| Frame rate | Common reason to use it | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| 24 FPS | Film-like motion and projects recorded at 24 fps | Fast motion may look less smooth than higher rates |
| 30 FPS | General online video and everyday footage | Motion is smoother than 24 fps but less fluid than 60 fps |
| 60 FPS | Fast action, sports, gameplay, or smoother motion | More frames to encode can increase data needs at comparable quality |
These are broad examples, not mandatory platform settings. Keep the project and export settings aligned with the footage and the intended result.
Does frame rate affect file size?
It can. At the same average bitrate, duration, and other settings, the total file size is approximately similar because bitrate is the data rate. But more frames per second can mean less data available per frame at a fixed bitrate, and preserving similar quality at a higher frame rate may require a higher bitrate. Codec efficiency and scene complexity also affect the result.
Use the video file size calculator to estimate size from a planned bitrate, and read video bitrate explained to understand how the data rate works.
How to choose a frame rate
- Check the frame rate of the original footage.
- Choose the motion style that suits the content and destination.
- Avoid converting frame rates unnecessarily, as frame duplication or blending can affect motion.
- Export a short section and inspect movement, pans, and fast action.
- Check the resulting file size and playback on a typical device.
Frequently asked questions
Is 60 FPS always better than 30 FPS?
No. 60 FPS can show smoother motion, but it is not always necessary and may increase capture and encoding demands. Match the choice to the footage and creative goal.
Should I export at the same FPS I recorded?
Often that is a good starting point, especially when you want natural motion and minimal frame conversion. The best setting still depends on the project and destination.
Does FPS mean resolution?
No. FPS describes frames per second; resolution describes pixel dimensions. They affect different aspects of the video.
Estimate the file size after choosing your export settings.
Calculate video file size