How to Send ProRes Files, with a File Size Chart

These are Apple's published target data rates at 29.97 fps. ProRes uses a variable bitrate, so real files can be a little smaller or larger depending on the image, and the per-minute sizes below are approximate. At 23.976 or 25 fps, sizes are roughly 15 to 20% lower.

1080p (1920 x 1080)

UHD 4K (3840 x 2160)

To estimate any file: data rate in Mbps multiplied by 60, divided by 8, gives megabytes per minute. A 3-minute UHD music video in ProRes 422 HQ is therefore about 20 GB, while the same edit in ProRes 422 LT is about 9 GB.

• ProRes 422 HQ is the usual choice for masters and for handing a conform to a colourist, because it holds up well to grading.
• ProRes 4444 and 4444 XQ keep an alpha channel and more colour detail, which matters for titles, graphics, VFX plates and keys. Use them only when the recipient needs them, as files are 50% larger than 422 HQ or more.
• ProRes 422 and 422 LT are often accepted for web deliverables and offline edits, at a fraction of the size.
• ProRes 422 Proxy is for offline editing and quick review on slower connections.

Always check the delivery spec first. If a client only needs to review the cut, a small H.264 file is much quicker to send; see sending video to a client.

1. Collect everything in one folder: the .mov files plus any XML, EDL or AAF, LUTs, reference exports and audio stems the recipient needs.
2. Open the homepage and drag in the folder. Up to 1000 files and 20 GB per transfer.
3. Choose Link or Email, and add a password for unreleased work.
4. Use a fast, stable connection and keep the tab open. Uploads are sent in chunks and brief drops are retried automatically, but closing the tab stops the upload.

ProRes is already compressed, so zipping saves almost nothing. If a project is larger than 20 GB, split it into several transfers, for example one per reel, scene or camera.

We never transcode or re-wrap your files. The recipient downloads the exact .mov you uploaded, byte for byte, so timecode, reel names, colour tags and embedded audio channels stay just as they were.

Recipients need software that can decode ProRes, such as Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro or After Effects. There is no online preview here: files are downloaded and opened locally. Once the grade or conform is done, delete the transfer from the Transfers page or let it expire after 1 day.