Everything You Need to Know About Instagram Reels Dimensions in 2023

Introduction 

If you’re looking to create engaging content on Instagram app, then you should definitely consider using the platform’s Reels feature.

However, it’s important to understand the recommended Instagram Reel sizes and dimensions to ensure that your videos look their best.

To help you out, we’ve created an ultimate guide on everything you need to know about Instagram Reel dimensions.

Our guide includes an Instagram Reel sizes cheat sheet, recommended Instagram Reel dimensions, aspect ratios, and tips for using the Instagram Reel feed to maximize your content’s visibility.

So, if you’re ready to take your Instagram game to the next level, read on to learn all about Reels dimensions and how to make the most of this incredible feature!

What Are Reels on Instagram?

Instagram Reels are short videos ranging from 15-30 seconds with various effects and edits. Reels offer Instagram users fun ways to get creative with their content, allowing them to add audio, filters, GIFs and more.

Reels also offer users the ability to go live with a friend or create engaging videos for their followers. Instagram Reels allows for creativity and expression; it’s a great way to bring your Insta content to life.

With Reels, you can showcase your talents, share educational ideas, or simply show off your style. Let’s not forget the biggest benefit of all—increased visibility!

When you upload a Reel onto your account, it’s visible in the Explore tab and the Discover tab. These tabs allow your content to be seen by anyone looking for inspiration, so it’s a great way to reach more people in your community.

Why Does Instagram Reels Size Matter?

High-quality reels start with the right dimensions. Ensure that your videos have the ideal width and height in order to produce the best results.

Doing so will help maintain their crispness when shared, helping your viewers appreciate every nuance of your content.

Additionally, upload videos to avoid surpassing the maximum allowed file size as doing so may affect your editing and publishing process.

Taking these steps will ensure you get the most out of your Instagram Reel efforts and that each ounce of effort counts.

Ideal Instagram Reel Dimensions 

How Does the Instagram Reels Algorithm Work?

Staying up to date with the latest trends on Instagram Reels is essential for visibility and discoverability. But there are a few key factors that can influence your success more than others; one of them being user engagement.

Engagement such as likes, comments, shares, and watches every time you post a reel can help increase its chances of showing up in the discoverability feed.  

Apart from engagement, it’s also important to ensure proper sizing when publishing reels. Vertical reels are recommended over landscape videos as they tend to perform better.

Additionally, using popular effects, filters, and audio can add an extra layer of creativity to your reels and make them stand out among competitors. 

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to maximize the potential reach of your reels and gain greater discoverability. It’s easier said than done, but if done correctly, you’ll be surprised by what can be achieved.

The 4 Must Know About Instagram Reel Specs

When creating your next Instagram Reel, you’ll need to be aware of the video aspect ratio, feed view, profile view, and text safe area.

The video aspect ratio sits at 9:16 (1,080 pixels x 1920 pixels). The feed view is 4:5 (1,080 pixels x 1,350 pixels). For your profile view, aim for a 1:1 ratio (1,080 pixels x 1,080 pixels). For the text safe area, it’s slightly more ‘art than science’.

Knowing the specs is essential – but understanding where they come from within your full video will help ensure you master numbers 2, 3, and 4.

1. Instagram Reels Video Spec — Aspect Ratio

Whether you’re crafting a masterpiece or just an entertaining video, there’s an important step to keep in mind, understanding the specifications. Every Instagram Reel should start with a video size of 1,080 pixels x 1,920 pixels.

This 9:16 aspect ratio is also seen on other social media platforms like Instagram Stories, IGTV, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.

Once your video is sized correctly, make sure to plan where your content is positioned based on the other three specifications.

Additionally, some phones will cut off the edges by 35 pixels from the left and right sides; this includes the iPhone XS and several other medium-sized phones, so plan for that accordingly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to create a stunning Reel from start to finish! 

Instagram Reels Specification: 1,080 pixels x 1,920 pixels | Aspect Ratio 9:16

2. Instagram Reels Feed View

When deciding to feature your Reels in the standard Instagram feed, you need to be aware that only a portion of your video will be visible. This segment has an aspect ratio of 4:5 and is 1,080 pixels by 1,350 pixels.

It is important to plan for this view when editing your video, as it may influence your viewer’s opinion of your content.

To ensure that the best parts of your video are showcased, this 4:5 section should begin 675 pixels from the center of the overall video.

This also allows for some visibility outside of the middle area of the video, as this does not usually occur in the Reels view only. Understanding this detail can be essential for creating an engaging post that will capture the attention of viewers.

Instagram Reels Spec Feed View: 1,080 pixels x 1,350 pixels | Aspect Ratio 4:5

3. Instagram Reel Profile View

When creating a video for your Instagram Reels, it’s essential to keep in mind how it will look in your profile. Instagram displays a 1:1 square from your uploaded video as the cover image on your profile.

This is an important element of your video that should be given careful consideration when selecting or designing the thumbnail.

Ensure that the chosen cover appears eye-catching and captivating in the profile view, as it will be seen by viewers even before they click through to watch the full video.

With strategic selection and design of an eye-catching cover, you can draw maximum attention and engagement for your Reel! 

Instagram Reels Spec Profile View: 1,080 pixels x 1,080 pixels | Aspect Ratio 1:1

4. Instagram Reels Text-Safe Area

When creating content for Instagram Reels, planning for the 1:1 ‘Cover’ image is key. This image will be pulled to display your video in Instagram Profiles and should be center-focused to ensure it captures all the important details. 

When viewers watch your Reel through the Reels Player on Instagram, they can view it in full 9:16 vertical resolution. Keep in mind that there are overlays at the top and bottom of this view.

The top has the “Reels” branding, while the bottom includes account info, captions, and audio information. These elements can obscure parts of your video, so make sure you design with a ‘text safe area.’

This ensures your primary message is still clear and all important visual elements remain unobstructed. 

When it comes to creating Reels, getting your content to look its best requires more than just great visuals. Paying attention to where certain text components, stickers and other elements fall on the screen is also essential.

The size of the device on which a user is viewing your Reels will determine how close text can get to the center of the 1:1 view and 4:5 center area.  

To ensure that your message is conveyed effectively and you look like a pro, it’s imperative to keep the so-called Text-Safe Zone in mind when designing your Reels.

Taking the necessary precautions during content development will help make sure your Reels stand out for all the right reasons.

Instagram Reels Spec Text Safe Zone: 1,080 pixels x 1,350+ pixels | Aspect Ratio 4:5+

Creating Thumb-Stopping Instagram Reels Covers

When creating Instagram Reels covers, it is important to consider both the dimensions and the aspect ratio of your design.

For example, a cover should be 1080 pixels x 1080 pixels (1:1) for the profile main feed grid, and 1080 pixels x 1920 pixels (9:16) for the profile Reel feed.

On the profile page, two versions of a cover are shown – one in the dedicated ‘Reels’ tab and another blended in with other videos in the profile main feed grid.

You can only edit and customize one version directly, which is the cover on the dedicated Reels tab. Knowing this information is essential to creating successful covers that draw attention and engage your target audience.

Planning The Perfect Instagram Reels Cover Image 

When creating a Reel on Instagram, don’t forget to select or add a Cover. This step is easy and important. Simply click on the “Cover” option to the left of your caption text to update that.

You can also choose to select the thumbnail from within your video or upload an image as your cover. Having an eye-catching, relevant thumbnail helps your Reel stand out.

So take the time to make sure that you have one that’s both attractive and appropriate for your content. With the right planning, you can create an effective cover for your Reel that will draw viewers in and boost your visibility on Instagram. 

Your Instagram Reels cover image is important for setting the tone for your video content. When you select or create a cover image, make sure to consider how it will look in both areas where it will appear.

Within the Reels portion of Instagram, your cover image will be displayed in full resolution. However, on your profile grid, only the center 1,080 x 1,080px square portion of your selected cover image will be visible.

Make sure you keep these views in mind when designing or selecting an appropriate cover for your Instagram Reels video posts. 

Instagram Reels Spec, the Cover: 1,080 pixels x 1,920 pixels | Aspect Ratio 9:16

About Different Instagram Reels Dimensions and Ratio

With the proper Reel size, your content can take its rightful place in the virtual spotlight. Whether you’re a creative professional or an aspiring social media star, it’s essential to know the sizing requirements set forth by Instagram. 

1. Aspect Ratio

When you upload content to Instagram Reels, it’s important to be mindful of the aspect ratio. This refers to the width-to-height ratio of a video, and different devices have different preferences.

To ensure that your viewers see your content in its truest and most accurate form, stick to the app’s predetermined ratio of 9:16.

That way, all of your viewers, regardless of their device type, will be able to clearly see what you’re uploading without stretching or cropping out any vital details. Remember—a wise creator knows their audience and wisely caters to them.

2. Length

No matter your style, the most important thing is to make sure your Reels have the right length. Too short and it won’t captivate an audience, too long and they’ll lose interest.

To keep viewers engaged, aim for a sweet spot between 15-90 seconds. Something that’s just long enough to share your message but not so long as to become tedious.

Ultimately, whatever length works best for your content is what matters most – so play around and find that perfect balance!

3. Video File Size

Well, it’s not easy to pinpoint one perfect size as it really depends on a few different factors. The resolution and number of frames that your video contains are two key elements that can affect the file size.

However, there is one hard and fast rule when it comes to Reel videos: the maximum size is four gigabytes. Anything over that limit won’t be able to be uploaded, so make sure you keep that in mind before you hit “publish”.

4. Video Format

Always remember that Instagram only supports .mp4 and .MOV file formats, so film and save videos in one of these two. If you have other types of files, no worries – simply convert them before uploading!

Keep the hassle and glitches away by using the right format for a successful and smooth upload.

5. Length

Are you looking for the perfect Reel length? Instagram allows users to post videos between 15 and 90 seconds, but selecting the optimum duration can be tricky.

Too short and your content won’t feel complete; too long and viewers may lose interest.

To find success with Reels, consider the following before hitting record: 

• Who is your target audience? Are they more likely to watch a longer or shorter video?

• What type of content are you producing? Are there any opportunities to feature multiple scenes within the timeframe of 15-90 seconds? 

• How quickly do you need to get your points across? Reels viewers have an average attention span of 11.5 seconds, so make sure you get to the point fast enough. 

Best Instagram Reel Length

• Best reel length for conversions: 30-90 seconds

• Best reel length for more views: 3-15 seconds

• Best reel length for getting shares: Around 18 seconds

• Best reel length for generating comments: 7-18 seconds

Though there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the perfect reel length, finding out what resonates best with your followers should be a priority for engagement.

Experimenting with different lengths will help you determine what works best for your content – and that’s when the real fun begins!

6. Resolution

Posting videos on Instagram with the optimal resolution specs will keep your content looking sharp! For Reels, that means posting a minimum resolution of 600 x 1067 pixels and a maximum resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels.

If you want to post even higher-quality content, unfortunately you’ll have to wait – 4K video is not supported yet on Instagram.

What Is the Best Instagram Reels Caption Length?

Instagram Reels are a great way to quickly communicate your message – captions can be up to 2200 characters long. But it’s best to keep them short and to the point.

That way, viewers will stay focused on the video and gain maximum value from watching it.

Conclusion

As Instagram continues to dominate the social media landscape, it’s no surprise that more and more users are flocking to use Instagram Reels.

This relatively new feature has quickly become a favorite of many, allowing users to create short, engaging videos to share with their followers.

With so much potential for creativity and engagement, it’s important to understand Instagram Reels’ dimensions and specifications to ensure that your content looks its best.

In this article, we have explored everything you need to know about Instagram Reels dimensions in 2023, from aspect ratios to sizes and specs.

Whether you’re just starting to use Instagram or are a seasoned pro, this guide is sure to help you open the reel and ensure that your content looks amazing.