Understanding the Average File Size of Full HD Video Per Second

The average file size of a full HD video per second can vary significantly depending on the compression method used and the quality of the video being recorded. Full HD video is defined as a resolution of 1921080, which provides a crisp and clear picture for everyday use. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the file size of full HD video, different compression techniques, and the typical file sizes for various video qualities.

Factors Influencing the Average File Size of Full HD Video

Before diving into the average file sizes, it's important to understand the key factors that influence the size:

Compression Method: This is the most critical factor. Compression can drastically reduce the file size without significantly compromising the quality. Different codecs and settings can produce different sizes. For instance, a heavily compressed MP4 file may be much smaller than an uncompressed RAW file. Quality of the Video: Higher-quality videos require more storage space. For example, a 1080p video shot at 60 frames per second (fps) with high color depth and sharper detail will consume more storage than a basic 1080p video shot at 30 fps with standard settings. The Content Being Recorded: Motion and complexity of the content can also affect file size. Dynamic scenes with lots of movement and detail will result in larger files compared to static or less detailed scenes.

Common Full HD Video File Sizes

Here is a breakdown of the average file sizes for different levels of compression and quality:

Compressed MP4: This is an extremely common and widely-used format. A heavily compressed MP4 of full HD at 30 fps with standard settings can be as small as 10-20MB per second. In some cases, this can even drop to as low as 5MB per second, depending on the codec and specific settings. Uncompressed RAW: Uncompressed RAW files, which contain all the original sensor data, can be massive. Shooting full HD RAW video will generally produce file sizes around 200-400MB per second. This can be even higher depending on the specific camera or software used. For example, shooting uncompressed 8K RAW would result in file sizes of around 100MB per second or more. H.265/HEVC Compression: This newer codec significantly reduces file size compared to H.264. A full HD video using the H.265 codec can reduce the file size to around 10-20MB per second, which is a significant improvement over H.264.

Comparing Compressed and Uncompressed Full HD Video

To better illustrate the differences, let's consider an example. Suppose you are recording a full HD video for an hour. Here are the estimated file sizes for different scenarios:

Compressed MP4 Video (Standard Settings): If the video is heavily compressed, the size might be around 50GB. If it's more moderately compressed, it could be around 100GB. Compressed MP4 Video (High Settings with H.265): Using the H.265 codec, the file size could be reduced to around 30GB for the same hour-long video. Uncompressed RAW Video: An uncompressed full HD RAW video would take up about 720GB for that hour, as it would be around 200-400MB per second. This is a substantial difference and highlights the trade-offs between high quality and storage space.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Needs

Given the significant differences in file size, it's important to choose the right format based on your specific use case. Here are some considerations:

Storage Constraints: If you have limited storage space, heavily compressed formats like compressed MP4 with H.264 or H.265 are a good choice. Editing and Post-Production: If you need to edit or enhance the video, working with uncompressed RAW is more ideal because it maintains the highest quality. Distribution: For streaming or social media platforms, compressed formats are more suitable as they are easier to upload and do not require as much bandwidth. Archival Purposes: If you want to store videos for archival purposes, uncompressed RAW is the best option to ensure the highest possible quality over time.

Conclusion

The average file size of a full HD video per second varies greatly depending on the compression method and quality of the recording. While heavily compressed videos can be as low as 10MB per second, uncompressed RAW videos can be in the hundreds of MBs per second. By understanding these factors, you can choose the right format for your specific needs, balancing quality and storage requirements effectively.