A DCP is not “just a big video file.” Its size is mainly driven by JPEG 2000 image sequences (one frame per image), wrapped into MXF, plus uncompressed cinema audio. That means two DCPs with the same duration can end up with very different file sizes depending on the technical choices made during mastering.

This calculator gives you a practical estimate of how large your DCP will be based on the parameters that matter most: runtime, frame rate, container/aspect (Flat vs Scope / 2K vs 4K), and target data rate (bitrate). It’s useful for planning uploads, delivery drives, and download times for cinemas or festivals.

What most affects DCP size

• Duration: more minutes = more frames and more audio data.

• Frame rate (fps): higher fps means more frames per second, which typically increases size.

• Resolution / container: 4K generally increases size compared to 2K at similar quality targets.

• Bitrate / encoding target: the single biggest lever for JPEG 2000 video size.

• Audio format: 5.1/7.1 and multiple language tracks add noticeable weight, especially over long runtimes.

Use the calculator

Enter your project details to get an estimated total size. Treat the result as a planning number (not an exact final value), since real-world size can vary with encoding settings, content complexity, and how many audio or subtitle assets are included.