Where the 4:3 aspect ratio is used
4:3 was the shape of standard-definition TV and early computer monitors, and it lives on in iPads, Micro Four Thirds cameras and most phone camera sensors.
- Tablets: The iPad's screen shape, which suits reading and browsing.
- Retro tech: CRT televisions and old tube computer monitors.
- Micro Four Thirds: The native sensor shape of Panasonic and OM System cameras.
- Classic gaming: The intended display shape for NES, SNES and early 3D consoles.
4:3 resolution cheat sheet
| Name | Width × height | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| VGA / SD | 640 × 480 px | Standard-definition TV, VHS and classic games |
| XGA | 1024 × 768 px | Early-2000s web design baseline |
| iPad Retina | 2048 × 1536 px | Standard iPad display resolution |
| 12 MP photo | 4000 × 3000 px | Micro Four Thirds and phone camera output |
Tip: For a VHS or retro TV look, set the editing canvas to 4:3 rather than cropping a 16:9 timeline at export.
How to calculate 4:3 dimensions
Height = width × 3 ÷ 4. Width = height × 4 ÷ 3. Round to whole pixels; many video encoders also need even numbers.
CSS for a 4:3 box
.media { aspect-ratio: 4 / 3; width: 100%; }