Should I use 1.85:1 or 16:9?
For most people: Use 16:9. For theatrical films: Use 1.85:1. Here's how to decide.
Decision Framework:
Use 16:9 if:
- ✅YouTube/web video
- ✅Streaming platform
- ✅Social media
- ✅Broadcast TV
- ✅Educational content
- ✅Corporate video
- ✅You're unsure
- ✅No theater release planned
Use 1.85:1 if:
- ✅Theatrical film release
- ✅Film festival submission
- ✅Professional cinema
- ✅Prestige streaming content
- ✅High-end production
- ✅Intent to show in theaters
Quick Decision Tree:
- Will this be shown in movie theaters?
- YES → Use 1.85:1
- NO → Use 16:9
- Is this for a film festival?
- YES → Use 1.85:1
- NO → Go to next question
- Is this professional cinema?
- YES → Use 1.85:1
- NO → Use 16:9
- Is budget significant?
- HIGH → Consider 1.85:1
- LOW → Use 16:9
- Do you have cinema equipment?
- YES → Use 1.85:1
- NO → Use 16:9
By Content Type:
| Type | Aspect Ratio | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Theatrical Film | 1.85:1 | Theater standard |
| YouTube Video | 16:9 | Web standard |
| Short Film | Either | Depends on intent |
| Feature Film | 1.85:1 | Cinema industry |
| Documentary | 16:9 | Usually web/broadcast |
| Music Video | Either | Director choice |
| Streaming Series | 16:9 | Platform standard |
| Festival Entry | 1.85:1 | Professional format |
| Corporate Video | 16:9 | Business standard |
| Educational | 16:9 | Standard format |
| Streaming Film | 1.85:1 | Premium content |
By Distribution Channel:
Going to Theaters:
→ 1.85:1 (only choice)
Going to YouTube:
→ 16:9 (only choice)
Going to Netflix/Apple TV+:
→ 1.85:1 acceptable (prestige content)
→ But they'll convert to 16:9 for delivery
Going to Broadcast TV:
→ 16:9 (required standard)
Going to Film Festival:
→ 1.85:1 (professional standard)
Going to Vimeo/Web:
→ 16:9 (easier)
Going to Social Media:
→ 16:9 or 9:16 (platform dependent)
By Experience Level:
Professional Filmmaker:
→ 1.85:1 for theatrical work
→ 16:9 for web work
Enthusiast/Serious Amateur:
→ 16:9 (more practical)
→ 1.85:1 only if confirmed theater deal
Beginner:
→ 16:9 (always)
→ Don't overcomplicate
By Budget:
$1M+ Budget:
→ 1.85:1 (likely theater release)
$100K-$1M:
→ Either (depends on distribution)
$10K-$100K:
→ 16:9 (more practical)
Under $10K:
→ 16:9 (definitely)
Size Difference Reference:
At 1080p height:
- 1.85:1: 1998 × 1080
- 16:9: 1920 × 1080
- Only 78 pixels wider!
On screen: Barely noticeable!
Common Misconceptions:
- ❌"1.85:1 is always better"
- ✅It's only better for theatrical release
- ❌"I need 1.85:1 to feel cinematic"
- ✅16:9 can feel cinematic too with good cinematography
- ❌"1.85:1 works for streaming"
- ✅It works but gets letterboxed; 16:9 is native
- ❌"Everyone uses 1.85:1"
- ✅Most content is 16:9 (TV, web, streaming)
Real-World Examples:
Netflix Original Films:
- Often shot in 2.39:1 (ultra-wide)
- But delivered in 16:9 for streaming
- Letterboxed when delivered
Indie Films:
- Often 1.85:1 (festival/theater ambition)
- Some use 16:9 (web-first)
YouTube Creators:
- Almost always 16:9
- Optimized for web
TV Series:
- Always 16:9
- Broadcast standard
Key Takeaway:
Default answer: Use 16:9
Unless you have a confirmed theatrical release or professional cinema project, 16:9 is the practical choice. It works everywhere, requires standard equipment, and is the universal standard. Use 1.85:1 only if you're actually making a theatrical film or entering professional film festivals.
Related Resources
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