Timecode Calculator
Add, subtract, and convert timecodes across frame rates. Supports drop-frame (29.97 DF, 59.94 DF) with correct frame-skip math, plus duration calculations between in and out points.
Result
| Total Frames | 0 |
|---|---|
| Total Seconds | 0.000 |
| Real-Time Duration | 0.000s |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SMPTE timecode?
SMPTE timecode is a standardized time labeling system (HH:MM:SS:FF) developed by the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers. It uniquely identifies every frame of video or film, making it essential for editing, synchronization, and collaboration. Each position represents hours, minutes, seconds, and frames.
What is drop-frame timecode and when should I use it?
Drop-frame timecode skips frame numbers (not actual frames) at specific intervals to keep timecode aligned with real clock time at 29.97fps and 59.94fps. Use drop-frame (DF) for broadcast delivery where runtime accuracy matters. Use non-drop-frame (NDF) for film-style workflows and when frame-accurate counting is more important than clock accuracy.
How do I calculate the duration between two timecodes?
Subtract the in-point timecode from the out-point timecode. Our calculator handles this automatically, including the complex math for drop-frame timecodes where frame numbers are skipped. Enter your in and out points and select your frame rate to get an instant duration result.
Can I convert timecodes between different frame rates?
Yes. Our timecode calculator converts between any standard frame rates including 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97 (DF/NDF), 30, 50, 59.94 (DF/NDF), and 60fps. The conversion preserves the actual time position, recalculating the frame number for the target rate.
What frame rate should I use for my project?
Use 23.976fps for cinematic/theatrical release, 24fps for true film projects, 25fps for PAL broadcast (Europe, Australia), 29.97fps DF for NTSC broadcast (North America, Japan), and 59.94fps for sports or high-motion broadcast content. Streaming platforms typically accept 23.976 or 29.97fps.
Why does 29.97fps exist instead of just 30fps?
When color was added to NTSC television in the 1950s, the frame rate was shifted from exactly 30fps to 29.97fps (30 × 1000/1001) to prevent interference between the color subcarrier and audio frequencies. This 0.1% difference accumulates to about 3.6 seconds per hour, which is why drop-frame timecode was invented.
How do I add timecodes together?
Convert each timecode to a total frame count, add the frame counts together, then convert back to timecode format. Our calculator does this automatically and correctly handles carry-over (e.g., when frames exceed the frame rate, they roll into seconds). It also handles drop-frame math where applicable.
What is the difference between timecode and timestamp?
Timecode (HH:MM:SS:FF) counts individual frames and is frame-rate dependent — essential for editing precision. Timestamps (HH:MM:SS.mmm) measure clock time in milliseconds and are frame-rate independent. Timecode is used in professional video workflows; timestamps are used in audio, web video, and consumer applications.
How many frames are in one hour of video?
It depends on frame rate: 24fps = 86,400 frames/hr, 25fps = 90,000 frames/hr, 29.97fps NDF = 107,892 frames/hr, 29.97fps DF = 107,892 frames/hr (but numbered to 108,000 with drops), 30fps = 108,000 frames/hr, and 59.94fps = 215,784 frames/hr.
Can I use this calculator for audio timecodes?
This calculator is designed for video frame-based timecodes (SMPTE). Audio timecodes in DAWs like Pro Tools use the same HH:MM:SS:FF format but may reference different frame rates or sub-frame positions. For standard video frame rates, the math is identical and this calculator works perfectly.