A video signal compression apparatus extracts a specific value written in a read only memory at every system clock pulse. The specific value can be varied at every clock pulse. Therefore, for example, only the center part of a picture can be horizontally compressed. A FIFO memory may be used. It is possible to select a mode with a fixed compression ratio or a mode in which a compression ratio varies at every clock pulse. Further, the fixed compression ratio can be set from the outside. Display position of the picture can also be changed.