480p

480p is a progressive-scan video mode within standard-definition (SD) video. The term denotes a vertical resolution of 480 lines, with progressive scanning meaning that each frame is drawn in full rather than interlaced. In practice, 480p content is commonly encoded at widths such as 720 pixels or 852 pixels, depending on the aspect ratio: 720x480 is common for standard-definition content and 852x480 is used for widescreen 16:9 material when stored with anamorphic scaling.

Frame rates for 480p vary by source and region, with common values including 24, 25, 30, and 60 frames per second. Compared with 480i, 480p provides a full-frame image on each refresh, which can reduce motion artifacts and improve clarity for fast-moving content.

Usage and history: 480p emerged alongside digital streaming and SD distribution as a balance between image quality and data requirements. It has been used in some SD broadcasts, certain DVD-like sources, and various streaming platforms where bandwidth constraints prevent higher-resolution formats. While it sits below the HD formats (such as 720p and 1080p) on the resolution ladder, 480p remains a common baseline for older equipment and lower-bandwidth video delivery.

Display considerations: 480p content may be stored with different pixel aspect ratios, which screens adapt to their native aspect. When upscaled to higher definitions, 480p can appear softer or exhibit scaling artifacts compared with true HD resolutions.