Instagram Video Length Limits for Reels, Stories, and Feed
Learn the exact Instagram video length limits for Reels, Stories, Feed, and Live, plus specs, editing tips, and strategies to maximize reach.
Introduction to Instagram Video Length Limits
If you’ve ever tried to upload a video to Instagram and hit an unexpected time restriction, you’re not alone. Many content creators and brands frequently ask: "How long can you upload a video on Instagram?" The answer varies based on the format you choose — Reels, Stories, Feed posts, Live broadcasts, or longer-form uploads (once part of IGTV).
Instagram offers multiple video options designed for specific audience behaviors and consumption patterns. Understanding exact length limits for each format is crucial to prevent upload errors, maintain optimal quality, and boost audience engagement.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn the maximum Instagram video lengths for every format, the technical requirements you must meet, editing strategies to fit the rules, and tips for leveraging both short and long videos for maximum reach.
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Maximum Video Lengths by Instagram Format
Instagram formats differ in duration, aspect ratio, and audience experience. Here's the detailed breakdown:
Reels
- Maximum Length: 90 seconds (latest 2023 update)
- Designed for quick, vertical, entertaining moments
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Highly discoverable via the Explore tab and trending audio
Stories
- Per Clip: 15 seconds
- You can link multiple 15-second clips for longer storytelling
- Clips play sequentially with a minimal gap
Feed Videos (In-Feed Posts)
- Minimum: 3 seconds
- Maximum:
- Mobile: 15 minutes
- Desktop: 60 minutes (includes legacy IGTV uploads)
- Suitable for news, launches, how-tos, and longer narratives
Instagram Live
- Maximum: 4 hours per live session
- Record and save replays to your feed for extended visibility
IGTV / Long-Form Content
- Merged into Feed/Video tab, but limits apply:
- Mobile Upload: 15 minutes
- Desktop Upload: 60 minutes
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Quick Video Length Reference Table
| Format | Minimum Length | Maximum Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reels | 3 seconds | 90 seconds | Vertical, trends, high reach |
| Stories | 1 second | 15 sec per clip | Multiple sequential clips possible |
| Feed Video (Mobile) | 3 seconds | 15 minutes | Square, portrait, or landscape |
| Feed Video (Desktop) | 3 seconds | 60 minutes | Ideal for in-depth content |
| Instagram Live | None | 4 hours | Real-time audience engagement |
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Pre-recorded Uploads vs. Live Streams
Instagram differentiates between pre-made content and live broadcasting:
- Pre-recorded uploads — Subject to strict time limits, with editing control before publishing; polished appearance is typical.
- Live streams — Allow significantly longer run times (up to 4 hours) but require stable internet and real-time interaction; minimal editing control.
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Technical Requirements for Uploading Videos
Meeting Instagram’s specifications ensures your videos upload smoothly.
Standard requirements include:
- File Type: MP4 (preferred)
- Video Codec: H.264
- Audio Codec: AAC
- Frame Rate: Up to 30 fps
- Resolutions & Aspect Ratios:
- Stories/Reels: 1080 × 1920 px, 9:16
- Feed: 1:1, 4:5, or 16:9
- File Size:
- Up to 10 min: ≤ 650MB
- Up to 60 min: ≤ 3.6GB
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Editing Videos to Fit Instagram's Time Limits
When your clip is too long, try these adjustments:
- Trim dead space — Keep only essential parts of the recording.
- Adjust playback speed — Particularly effective for demonstrations.
- Split into multiple posts — Chain Reels or Stories for longer ideas.
- Polish transitions — Smooth cuts keep audiences engaged.
- Hook viewers instantly — The early seconds are crucial for retention.
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Creative Strategies for Longer Content
If your concept exceeds Instagram’s limits:
- Create a video series — Label parts clearly for easier navigation.
- Pair video with carousel posts — Supplement with stills or extra short clips.
- Tease with Reels, expand in Feed or Live — Drive curiosity and traffic.
These techniques maintain narrative flow while respecting duration limits.
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Short vs. Long Video Performance
Short Videos (Stories, Reels)
- Advantages: Greater chance of going viral, easy to produce
- Drawbacks: Less space for in-depth coverage
Long Videos (Feed, Live)
- Advantages: More room for comprehensive storytelling and tutorials
- Drawbacks: Higher production effort, lower completion rates
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How Instagram’s Algorithm Responds to Length
Length impacts distribution and visibility:
- Reels: Heavily featured in Explore; prioritizes engaging, concise clips
- Stories: Prioritized for loyal follower engagement
- Long Videos: Favorable if watch time is high, but discovery is slower
- Live: Boosted notifications during the broadcast
Engagement metrics like watch time and completion strongly influence whether your videos are promoted.
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Recommended Video Editing Apps
Effective tools for adjusting video formats and lengths:
- InShot — All-round mobile editing
- CapCut — Trend-focused tools
- Adobe Premiere Rush — Professional syncing across devices
- iMovie — Simple and free for Apple users
- Filmora — Beginner-friendly interface
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Common Upload Errors and Fixes
Issues tied to exceeding Instagram limits include:
- "Video too long" — Re-edit to meet format duration
- Platform upload differences — Use desktop for 60-min feed uploads
- Aspect ratio mismatch — Adjust dimensions before uploading
- App version lag — Update to access current length rules
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Summary and Quick Chart
Knowing how long you can upload a video on Instagram allows you to pick the right format for your goals. Use short clips for reach and long form for depth, while always complying with platform limits.
| Instagram Format | Max Length | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Reels | 90 seconds | Trendy, viral content |
| Stories | 15 sec per clip | Daily engagement, behind the scenes |
| Feed (Mobile) | 15 minutes | Product demos, announcements |
| Feed (Desktop) | 60 minutes | Webinars, interviews |
| Instagram Live | 4 hours | Q&A, events, launches |
Bottom line: Match your video to the right length and format to balance algorithmic reach with content depth. For consistent results, recheck Instagram’s specifications regularly and adjust your strategy accordingly. Ready to start? Plan your next video with these limits in mind and watch your engagement grow.
