4:3 Aspect Ratio Calculator
Calculate dimensions for 4:3 classic format, used by iPads, classic TV, and presentations.
Calculate dimensions for 4:3 classic format, used by iPads, classic TV, and presentations.
The 4:3 aspect ratio, also known as "fullscreen" or "standard," was the dominant format for television and computer monitors until the mid-2000s. It remains widely used for tablets like the iPad, security cameras, and certain professional applications. For every 4 units of width, there are 3 units of height.
| Resolution | Name | Category | Megapixels |
|---|---|---|---|
| 640x480 | VGA | Screen | 0.3 MP |
| 800x600 | SVGA | Screen | 0.5 MP |
| 1024x768 | XGA | Screen | 0.8 MP |
| 1600x1200 | UXGA | Screen | 1.9 MP |
| 2048x1536 | iPad Retina | Screen | 3.1 MP |
| 2732x2048 | iPad Pro 12.9" | Screen | 5.6 MP |
| 1400x1050 | SXGA+ | Screen | 1.5 MP |
| 1920x1440 | Security Camera HD | Video | 2.8 MP |
Apple iPads use 4:3 for optimal reading and browsing experience
Standard definition TV content, vintage films, and retro gaming
Many CCTV and surveillance systems use 4:3 for wider vertical coverage
Classic PowerPoint format, still used for projectors and older displays
Early television adopted 4:3 because it was already the standard aspect ratio for 35mm silent films. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences had established this ratio in 1932, so TV inherited it for compatibility with existing film content.
For some tasks, yes. The taller format of 4:3 provides more vertical space for reading documents, coding, and web browsing. This is why iPads and some professional monitors still use 4:3 or similar ratios like 3:2.
Use 16:9 for video content, widescreen presentations, and most modern displays. Use 4:3 for iPad apps, legacy content, security systems, or when you need maximum vertical space in a rectangular format.
The most common method is pillarboxing - adding black bars on the left and right sides. This preserves the original content without distortion. Some TVs offer a "stretch" mode but this distorts the image.
Standard iPads use 2048x1536 (4:3 ratio), iPad Pro 11" uses 2388x1668 (close to 4:3), and iPad Pro 12.9" uses 2732x2048 (also 4:3). All maintain the classic 4:3 aspect ratio.