30fps

30fps, or thirty frames per second, describes a video or animation in which thirty distinct frames are displayed each second. At 30fps, each frame lasts about 1/30 of a second (roughly 33.33 milliseconds), a rate that balances motion smoothness with manageable data size for many devices and networks.

Historically, frame rate choices varied by region and technology. In NTSC television, the practical rate for color video aligns with 29.97 frames per second, leading to workflows that reference 30fps or 29.97fps depending on the context. Content labeled as 30p typically refers to progressive-scan video at exactly 30 frames per second, while interlaced formats used in some broadcasts deliver frames as 60i (60 fields per second), effectively capturing around 30 frames per second.

In modern digital media, 30fps is a common target for online video, streaming, and television, especially when bandwidth or storage constraints exist. It is frequently produced at resolutions such as 720p30 or 1080p30. For interactive media like video games, 30fps is often considered a baseline, with higher-end titles aiming for 60fps or higher to improve responsiveness and perceived smoothness.

Technical considerations include the need for consistent frame timing. Converting content between frame rates can introduce judder or timing artifacts if not done carefully. Variable frame rate (VFR) content can cause compatibility issues with some playback devices and streaming services, which often prefer a constant frame rate (CFR). Overall, 30fps remains a widely used standard that provides smooth motion for many applications while reducing data requirements compared with higher frame rates.