Everyone is talking about 9:16, reels and shorts. But suddenly a new format appears that blows everything away: 5120×1080 pixels. Extremely wide, extremely unusual – and therefore a real scroll stop.
While most companies are still considering whether they should rely on TikTok, LinkedIn or YouTube Shorts, creators are already experimenting with this new ultra-wide format. And the first videos are proving it: If you use 5120×1080 cleverly, you are guaranteed to get attention.
What is behind 5120×1080?
5120×1080 corresponds to an aspect ratio of 32:9 – i.e. two 16:9 screens side by side.
The format was originally intended for ultra-wide monitors, such as those used in gaming or in the professional design and editing sector.
But now the format is finding its way onto social media. Why? Because it looks different from everything we are used to. And that’s exactly where the appeal lies.
Why it stands out
In a feed full of reels, stories and classic 16:9 clips, a 32:9 video looks like a foreign object – in the best sense of the word.
It breaks viewing habits, creates contrast and has an immediately cinematic effect.
The effect:
People get stuck when scrolling.
You ask yourself: “What’s happening here?”
Attention is automatically drawn to the image content because the format is reminiscent of a movie screen.
Opportunities for brands
The format is particularly suitable when visual width is important:
Events & Locations
– Exhibition shots (e.g. BERNEXPO)
– Stadium experiences (FCL, curling, sporting events)
– Tourism panoramas (Alps, lakes, nature)Products & technology
– Showcases in which many details are shown simultaneously
– Production lines or machines at a glance
– Architecture or rooms that need to make an impactStorytelling
– Atmospheric clips with strong imagery
– Build suspense like in the cinema
– Creative experiments with split screens or parallel stories
Especially in B2B marketing or special campaigns, a 5120×1080 clip can make all the difference. Not as a standard, but as a highlight that arouses curiosity.
Limits of the format
Of course, there is a catch to the trend:
Mobile limitations
– Without good image composition it loses its effect.Production effort
– editing and export require special settings.
– thumbnails and preview images must be adjusted.Not suitable for all content
– Talking heads or interviews appear lost.
– Content without a strong visual context is lost in the panorama.
Is 5120×1080 a must-have?
No. Nobody has to switch their entire video marketing to 32:9 now.
But: If you test early on, you can achieve surprising effects with this format and position your brand as innovative.
Just as vertical video (9:16) was initially ridiculed in the past and is now standard, 32:9 could also find its place – at least in niches.
Conclusion
5120×1080 is not an everyday format. But it is an exciting experiment that is attracting attention on social media.
Our tips:
Test it with a short, strong clip that offers a lot visually.
Choose topics where width is a real added value – events, panoramas, tech.
Use it deliberately as a contrast to your standard formats.
This turns a trend into a real scroll-stop effect – and your content immediately stands out.
Schedule a free consultation with our video experts.
Together, we’ll simplify your communication.
Examples from Instagram: see links
