UHD 4K is usually 3840 × 2160 pixels, while DCI 4K is usually 4096 × 2160 pixels. The extra width in DCI 4K gives it a wider aspect ratio. Adobe lists both dimensions in its video submission specifications.

Both formats are commonly called 4K, which can cause confusion when a camera, editor or client asks for a “4K” file without saying which one.

Why the distinction matters

The wider DCI frame is commonly associated with digital cinema workflows. UHD matches the 16:9 shape used by many televisions, online videos and displays. Choosing the wrong sequence size may lead to unwanted cropping, black bars or a mismatch with the requested delivery.

A camera may record one format while your editor exports another. That can be intentional, such as reframing a wider image for a 16:9 video, but check what changes at the edges before committing to the export.

Check the full delivery specification

Before filming or editing, confirm the requested pixel dimensions and aspect ratio. “4K” alone may not be specific enough for a client, festival or platform. Check frame rate, codec and audio settings too, then export a short test and play it on the intended device or in the required software.

If the project is for online video, follow the platform’s current requirements rather than assuming that every 4K destination expects DCI dimensions.

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