Instagram Reels has become a transformative platform, showcasing short, captivating videos brimming with entertainment and ingenuity.
Whether you’re a creator or a business looking to get popular on Instagram Reels, the key lies in consistently producing content that grabs people’s attention. However, there’s an additional crucial element – mastering the size and shape of your Reels, known as Instagram Reel dimensions.
Getting these right – the ratio, thumbnail, and video quality – can significantly elevate your Reel’s potential to go viral. In this cheat sheet, we’ll explain all about Instagram Reel sizes without any jargon.
PS: Don’t forget to bookmark this page so you can quickly check back for the right and updated dimensions whenever you need them.
Instagram Reel Dimensions for 2024
Instagram Reels are for vertical viewing, so ensure your videos and photos have a size of 1080 pixels wide and 1920 pixels tall, maintaining a 9:16 aspect ratio.
But we also need to keep in mind:
Social media dimensions tend to change every now and then, and Instagram is no exception. For the most current information, always refer to the Instagram help center.
Before we get into listing the different Instagram Reel dimensions, here’s an infographic you can save for quick reference.
Instagram Reels Size Ratio
While viewing the Reel on full screen, the aspect ratio is 9:16. If someone is watching a Reel in their newsfeed, the video will be cropped to a 4:5 ratio.
Instagram Reel Frame Size
The frame size for Instagram Reels is typically 1080 x 1920 pixels.
Utilizing this size ensures your Reels fill the entire screen on most smartphones, offering an immersive experience. As a creator, it’s vital to adhere to this frame size, especially when you’re not using the native in-app camera to record your Reel, to guarantee your content displays correctly on Instagram.
Note: Horizontal videos are not recommended for Reels as they may get stretched and cropped.
Instagram Reel Cover Size
Instagram recommends using a Reel cover of 1080 x 1920 pixels with an aspect ratio of 9:16.
Once you upload your cover photo, it can’t be edited, so choose wisely!
Instagram Reel Thumbnail Size
Do not confuse a thumbnail image with a cover photo – both differ in context and display. A thumbnail is a square image (1080 pixels x 1080 pixels, 1:1 aspect ratio) seen in your profile grid, Explore page, or feed.
The cover photo, on the other hand, is a vertical format intro image, as you see in your Reels section.
Instagram Reels Caption Length
A caption is something viewers don’t usually follow, but it sure is a good spot to give context to the entire video. The maximum length for an Instagram Reels caption is 2,200 characters. This limit includes spaces, emojis, and hashtags.
Instagram Reel Length
How long can an Instagram Reel be? Well, it depends on how you’re uploading it.
If you’re recording and editing your Reels from the Instagram Camera, your Reel can be up to 90 seconds long.
But if you record Reel through the non-native camera app and post it through tools like SocialPilot, you can post anywhere between three seconds to up to 15-minute long videos.
Instagram Reels Compression Size
Instagram automatically resizes videos wider than 1080 pixels to a width of 1080 pixels. IG videos with a width between 320 pixels and 1080 pixels will maintain their original resolution as long as the video’s aspect ratio is between 1.91:1 and 4:5.
That’s it!
We’ve covered all the Instagram Reel measurements you need to know. Use these dimensions to make your Reels shine and increase the chances of getting viral.
For other video sizes, like Stories or Live, you can refer to this Instagram video size guide.
Why Are Instagram Reel Sizes Important?
Now you know the accurate dimensions for your Reels, but does it really make any difference?
The answer is yes.
Take a look at the image below:
What do you feel after looking at this image?
Doesn’t the text look cropped out?
This happens when you upload Reels with incorrect measurements. The above example was a subtle one; the consequences could have been worse.
Using improper dimensions can lead to a variety of unfavorable outcomes. For instance, if the aspect ratio of your Reel is not correct, the entire video will get distorted and stretched, and your hard work will go in vain.
If the video is horizontal or too large, you will get an awkward crop.
Low-resolution media? The Reel will look pixelated.
Of course, this does not mean the end of the world, but it sure does leave a negative impression on your audience, especially if you’re looking to generate engagement for your brand.
Another primary reason for perfecting the right Instagram Reel size?
The Instagram algorithm is designed to promote the viewer experience. So, using the right measurements while editing and uploading your Reels can boost the chances of reaching a wide audience.
Plan and Schedule Your Reels With SocialPilot
Now that you’ve mastered the ideal dimensions for Instagram Reels, it’s time to let your creativity shine!
But hold on, is there a simpler way to organize your Reels content calendar?
Introducing SocialPilot: Your ultimate tool for social media management. SocialPilot simplifies content planning and scheduling, ensuring your Reels have the best shot at going viral.
Here’s what you can do with SocialPilot:
- Upload and Manage: Easily upload your Reel, craft your post description, and add that crucial first comment.
- Enhanced Customization: Choose your Reel cover image, add an audio title, and tag relevant profiles.
- User-Friendly Calendar: Perfect for handling multiple accounts, the intuitive calendar helps keep everything organized.
- Content Library: Access a repository of your top-performing Reels for easy reuse and inspiration.
- Editing Tools: Polish your Reels to perfection with handy editing features.
- Analytics Tracking: Monitor your Reels’ performance and identify your star content.
- Consistent Scheduling: Say goodbye to posting inconsistencies and boost your reach with scheduled uploads.
Conclusion
That’s the scoop on getting your Instagram Reels just right! Nailing those dimensions is like fitting the perfect piece into a puzzle – it just clicks.
And if you’re looking to make life a bit easier and get your Reels out there, why not try SocialPilot?
This comprehensive tool can help significantly boost your social media presence with its impressive features like detailed analytics, a content library, AI Assistant, and editing tools.
Remember, getting the dimensions spot-on is your first step to making waves on Instagram. With SocialPilot by your side, you’re not just posting; you’re posting with precision.
Ready to turn those perfect-fit Reels into Instagram gold?
