General Aspect Ratio

How do I calculate aspect ratio from width and height?

Calculating aspect ratio from width and height is a simple mathematical process. Here's exactly how to do it:

The Formula:

Aspect Ratio = Width : Height (simplified to lowest terms)

Step-by-Step Manual Calculation:

Example 1: 1920 x 1080

  1. Start with your dimensions: Width = 1920, Height = 1080
  1. Find the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD)
    • List factors of 1920: ..., 120, 240, 480, 960, 1920
    • List factors of 1080: ..., 120, 180, 270, 540, 1080
    • GCD = 120 (largest number that divides both)
  1. Divide both dimensions by the GCD
    • 1920 ÷ 120 = 16
    • 1080 ÷ 120 = 9
  1. Result: 16:9 aspect ratio

Example 2: 1280 x 720

  1. Dimensions: 1280 x 720
  2. GCD: 80
  3. Divide: 1280 ÷ 80 = 16, 720 ÷ 80 = 9
  4. Result: 16:9

Quick Method Using Decimal:

  1. Divide width by height: 1920 ÷ 1080 = 1.777...
  1. Identify common ratios by decimal:
    • 1.33 = 4:3
    • 1.5 = 3:2
    • 1.6 = 16:10
    • 1.78 = 16:9
    • 1.85 = 1.85:1 (cinema)
    • 2.0 = 2:1
    • 2.35-2.40 = 2.39:1 (widescreen cinema)
  1. Round to recognize the ratio

Using Our Calculator (Easiest Method):

No math needed:

  1. Enter width: 1920
  2. Enter height: 1080
  3. Instantly get: 16:9

Common Dimension Examples:

DimensionsCalculationAspect Ratio
1920 x 10801920÷108016:9
2560 x 14402560÷144016:9
3840 x 21603840÷216016:9
1280 x 7201280÷72016:9
1024 x 7681024÷7684:3
3000 x 20003000÷20003:2
3440 x 14403440÷144021:9
1080 x 19201080÷19209:16

For Non-Standard Dimensions:

If your calculation results in unusual numbers (like 17.2:9), you might have:

  • An uncommon custom aspect ratio
  • Dimensions that include padding/borders
  • A need to round to the nearest standard ratio

Pro Tips:

  • Always use the same units for width and height
  • Calculator tools eliminate manual math errors
  • Decimal format (1.78:1) is easier for quick comparisons
  • Most content uses standard ratios (16:9, 4:3, 3:2)

Why This Matters:

Knowing how to calculate aspect ratio from width and height helps you:

  • Verify if content matches platform requirements
  • Resize images proportionally
  • Choose appropriate export settings
  • Understand camera and display specifications

For instant results without manual calculation, click here to use our aspect ratio calculator.

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Use our free aspect ratio calculator to find the perfect dimensions for your project.

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