Where the 2:1 aspect ratio is used
2:1, also called Univisium, sits between 16:9 TV and 2.39:1 cinema. Many streaming series, such as Stranger Things, are framed in 2:1, and 360-degree video uses a 2:1 equirectangular frame.
- Streaming series: A common framing for Netflix and other streaming originals.
- 360° and VR video: The equirectangular projection used for stitching.
- Web banners: Wide hero images and header graphics.
- Phones: Screens sold as 18:9 have the same shape.
2:1 resolution cheat sheet
| Name | Width × height | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p-width 2:1 | 1920 × 960 px | Streaming-style crop of a Full HD frame |
| 4K-width 2:1 | 3840 × 1920 px | High-resolution streaming export |
| 4K 360° video | 4096 × 2048 px | Common equirectangular VR resolution |
| 8K 360° video | 8192 × 4096 px | High-end VR video |
Tip: Want a cinematic look that still fills most of a phone screen in landscape? 2:1 is the practical compromise between 16:9 and 2.39:1.
How to calculate 2:1 dimensions
Height = width × 1 ÷ 2. Width = height × 2 ÷ 1. Round to whole pixels; many video encoders also need even numbers.
CSS for a 2:1 box
.media { aspect-ratio: 2 / 1; width: 100%; }