Instagram Video Size and Format Specifications Guide 2025

Instagram Video Requirements Quick Reference

File Size Limits

• Instagram Feed: 100MB max
• Instagram Stories: 100MB max
• Instagram Reels: 100MB max
• IGTV: 650MB (up to 10 minutes), 3.6GB (up to 60 minutes)

Video Length Limits

• Instagram Feed: Up to 60 seconds
• Instagram Stories: Up to 15 seconds (longer videos split automatically)
• Instagram Reels: Up to 90 seconds
• IGTV: 1 minute to 60 minutes

Instagram Feed Video Specifications

Optimal Dimensions

• Square (1:1): 1080 x 1080 pixels
• Landscape (1.91:1): 1080 x 566 pixels
• Portrait (4:5): 1080 x 1350 pixels

Technical Requirements

Best Practices

• Use square (1:1) for maximum compatibility
• Keep important content in the center safe zone
• Add captions for accessibility
• Use high-quality source footage
• Test on different devices

Instagram Stories Video Specifications

Dimensions

• Aspect ratio: 9:16 (vertical)
• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Safe zone: Keep text within 1080 x 1420 pixels

Technical Requirements

Story-Specific Features

• Videos longer than 15 seconds split automatically
• Support for interactive stickers
• Compatible with AR effects
• Vertical format works best

Instagram Reels Video Specifications

Dimensions

• Aspect ratio: 9:16 (vertical)
• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels
• Alternative: 1080 x 1080 pixels (square)

Technical Requirements

Reels-Specific Guidelines

• Vertical videos perform better
• Use trending audio when possible
• Keep logo/watermarks minimal
• High-quality footage essential
• Original content preferred

IGTV Video Specifications

Dimensions

• Vertical (9:16): 1080 x 1920 pixels (recommended)
• Horizontal (16:9): 1920 x 1080 pixels
• Square (1:1): 1080 x 1080 pixels

Technical Requirements

IGTV Features

• Custom thumbnail upload
• Series organization
• Shopping tags available
• Analytics tracking
• Cross-posting to feed

Video Format Compatibility

Supported Formats

• MP4 (most compatible)
• MOV (Apple format)

Video Codecs

• H.264 (recommended)
• H.265/HEVC (newer, smaller files)

Audio Requirements

• Codec: AAC preferred
• Sample rate: 48kHz recommended
• Channels: Stereo or mono
• Bitrate: 128kbps minimum

Upload Quality Guidelines

Video Quality Settings

• Resolution: 1080p minimum
• Bitrate: 3,500-5,000 kbps
• Profile: High
• Keyframe interval: 2 seconds

Compression Tips

1. Use variable bitrate (VBR)
2. Set keyframes every 2 seconds
3. Avoid over-compression
4. Test different quality settings
5. Use professional editing software

Mobile vs Desktop Upload

Mobile Upload (Recommended)

• Better compression algorithm
• Maintains higher quality
• Faster processing
• Native aspect ratio support

Desktop Upload

• Available through Creator Studio
• Good for IGTV longer videos
• Requires proper format conversion
• May have quality reduction

Common Video Issues and Solutions

Upload Failures

Problem: Video won't upload Solutions:

• Check file size limits
• Verify format compatibility
• Ensure stable internet connection
• Try uploading from mobile app

Quality Loss

Problem: Video appears pixelated Solutions:

• Use higher bitrate settings
• Upload from mobile when possible
• Start with 1080p source
• Avoid multiple compressions

Audio Sync Issues

Problem: Audio doesn't match video Solutions:

• Check frame rate consistency
• Use matching audio sample rate
• Re-encode with proper settings
• Test before final upload

Platform-Specific Optimization

For Maximum Reach

• Reels: Vertical 9:16, trending audio
• Feed: Square 1:1, clear thumbnails
• Stories: Vertical 9:16, interactive elements
• IGTV: Vertical preferred, engaging thumbnails

For Different Content Types

• Educational: Square feed posts with captions
• Behind-the-scenes: Vertical stories
• Entertainment: Reels with trending audio
• Long-form: IGTV with compelling thumbnails

Video Editing Best Practices

Pre-Upload Checklist

• Correct aspect ratio for platform
• File size under limit
• High-quality source footage
• Proper audio levels
• Captions added (accessibility)
• Thumbnail optimized
• Hashtags prepared
• Upload time planned

Recommended Tools

• Mobile: InShot, CapCut, Adobe Premiere Rush
• Desktop: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve
• Online: Canva Video Editor, Clipchamp

Future Updates and Changes

Recent Changes

• IGTV merged into main feed
• Reels extended to 90 seconds
• Stories support longer videos
• Improved compression algorithms

Expected Updates

• Higher resolution support
• New aspect ratio options
• Enhanced editing tools
• Better quality preservation

Performance Tips by Content Type

Tutorial Videos

• Use square format for feed
• Add text overlays for key points
• Keep under 60 seconds
• Include clear audio

Product Showcases

• Multiple aspect ratios for cross-posting
• High-quality lighting essential
• Close-up shots perform well
• Include pricing/link information

Behind-the-Scenes

• Stories format works best
• Authentic, unpolished feel
• Use natural lighting
• Engage directly with audience

Conclusion

Following Instagram's video specifications ensures your content looks professional and performs well. Always prioritize video quality and choose the right format for your content type and platform placement.

Remember to test your videos on different devices and regularly check for platform updates, as Instagram frequently adjusts their requirements and features.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best video format for Instagram?

MP4 with H.264 codec is the most compatible and recommended format for all Instagram video types.

Why does my video lose quality on Instagram?

Instagram compresses all videos. Upload from mobile, use high-quality source footage, and avoid multiple compressions to minimize quality loss.

Can I upload vertical videos to Instagram feed?

Yes, Instagram feed supports vertical videos up to 4:5 aspect ratio, though square (1:1) often performs better.

What's the maximum video length for Instagram Reels?

Instagram Reels can be up to 90 seconds long as of the latest update.

How can I make my videos look professional on Instagram?

Use proper lighting, stable footage, appropriate aspect ratios, add captions for accessibility, and edit with quality software before uploading.