Reel Dimensions for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube
Learn the ideal reel dimensions, safe zones, and specs for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube to ensure pixel-perfect, platform-ready videos.
Introduction to Reel Dimensions and Why They Matter
In the fast-paced world of short-form video, reel dimensions are more than just technical specifications—they are a critical component for maximising impact across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube. Using the correct video dimensions ensures your reels look professional, maintain sharpness, avoid awkward cropping, and optimise visibility in both mobile and desktop feeds.
Social media platforms increasingly prioritise vertical, full-screen video formats. However, each has its own preferred aspect ratio, resolution, and “safe zones” for text and key visuals. Upload in the wrong format and you risk blurred or distorted visuals, chopped-off captions, or a poor viewing experience that may reduce engagement.
This guide covers the reel dimension requirements for the top platforms, provides a side-by-side comparison, explains safe zone placement, offers tips for shooting and repurposing, and highlights common mistakes to avoid—so you can publish pixel-perfect, platform-ready reels every time.
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Standard Instagram Reel Dimensions
Instagram Reels are designed for immersive vertical viewing, filling the mobile screen completely.
Recommended Dimensions:
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Resolution: 1080 × 1920 pixels
- Frame Rate: 30fps (frames per second)
- Safe Zone: Keep key elements within the middle 1080 × 1420 pixels to avoid cropping in feed previews.
Why Safe Zones Matter on Instagram
When viewed in the feed, Instagram crops the top and bottom portions of reels. If important text or calls-to-action are outside the safe zone, they may be hidden unless the viewer taps through to full mode.
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TikTok Vertical Video Dimensions vs Instagram Reels
TikTok popularised the vertical short video trend. While dimensions align closely with Instagram, there are distinctive UI and file size considerations.
TikTok Recommended Dimensions:
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (full screen)
- Resolution: Minimum 1080 × 1920 pixels
- Margin Considerations: TikTok overlays captions, buttons, and icons along the right-hand side and at the bottom.
- File Size Limit: Up to 287.6 MB (iOS) or 72 MB (Android) when uploading in-app.
Key Difference From Instagram:
TikTok’s interface elements occupy more screen real estate. To avoid button overlaps, position text more toward the horizontal centre and slightly higher vertically.
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Facebook Reels: Recommended Size and Differences From Instagram
Facebook’s Reel format mirrors Instagram’s in many ways but introduces desktop viewing considerations.
Facebook Reels Dimensions:
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16
- Resolution: 1080 × 1920 pixels
- Safe Zones: Similar to Instagram—centre your key visuals and text.
- Cross-Posting Tip: Instagram reels can be posted to Facebook, but preview for cropping, especially on desktop.
Notable Difference:
On desktop browsers, non-matching aspect ratios may generate black bars, negatively affecting visual appeal.
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YouTube Shorts Dimensions and Key Technical Specs
YouTube Shorts allows content creators to tap into YouTube’s vast audience while leveraging vertical-video algorithms.
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16 preferred (1:1 possible but with pillarboxing)
- Resolution: Minimum 720 × 1280 pixels; recommended 1080 × 1920
- Length: Up to 60 seconds
- Orientation: Vertical is optimal for reach and Shorts shelf placement
While horizontal content is allowed, it will not perform as well in Shorts-specific feeds.
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Best Practices for Shooting in Correct Aspect Ratios
Filming directly in 9:16 ensures your footage fills the frame without heavy cropping later.
Tips:
- Set your phone or camera to vertical mode before filming.
- Enable in-camera guides for safe zones.
- Avoid digital zoom—preserve detail and clarity.
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Tips for Optimising Text Placement Within Reels
Proper text placement is essential for clear, engaging reels.
- Stay within safe zones: Vertically centre your text away from edges.
- Avoid overlay areas: Keep text clear of TikTok’s right rail and Instagram’s top/bottom margins.
- Maintain contrast: Use text colours that stand out from your background for readability.
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How to Repurpose Reels Across Platforms Without Losing Quality
Cross-posting saves time but requires adjustments for each platform’s UI.
Steps to Repurpose:
- Produce a high-resolution 9:16 master file.
- Export platform-specific versions with safe zone modifications.
- Place branding where it remains visible regardless of cropping or overlays.
| Platform | Aspect Ratio | Resolution | Safe Zone Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instagram Reels | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Centre content in middle 75% vertical space |
| TikTok | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Avoid right 15% width due to UI icons |
| Facebook Reels | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Same as Instagram; check desktop preview |
| YouTube Shorts | 9:16 | 1080×1920 | Centre CTAs horizontally and vertically |
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Tools and Apps for Resizing and Formatting Reels Easily
Several content creation tools simplify the process of achieving the correct reel dimensions:
- Canva: Preset templates for multiple platforms.
- CapCut: Auto-resizing with adjustable safe zones.
- InShot: Manual cropping and export frame control.
- Adobe Premiere Rush: Professional-level aspect ratio editing.
These tools allow creators to produce versatile, high-quality, platform-ready videos efficiently.
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Common Mistakes in Reel Dimensions and How to Avoid Them
Frequent Pitfalls:
- Uploading horizontal videos without adapting to vertical aspect ratios.
- Placing text or logos too close to edges.
- Using non-standard resolutions that trigger unwanted compression.
- Exporting at low bitrates, leading to poor visual quality.
Avoidance Strategies:
Always confirm platform specifications before exporting. When unsure, default to 1080 × 1920 resolution with centred composition and adequate safe margins.
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Final Checklist for Publishing Platform-Perfect Reels
Before you post, make sure to check:
- ✅ Video filmed in 9:16 aspect ratio
- ✅ Resolution at 1080 × 1920 pixels
- ✅ Text and CTAs within platform safe zones
- ✅ File size under platform maximum
- ✅ Mobile and desktop previews completed
- ✅ Audio levels clear and balanced
- ✅ Branding present but non-intrusive
- ✅ Playback quality tested after upload
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Summary and Key Takeaway
Mastering reel dimensions for Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube ensures your short-form videos stay sharp, engaging, and algorithm-friendly. By respecting safe zones, adhering to recommended resolutions, and using the right tools for resizing, you can enhance viewer retention and brand professionalism.
Ready to make every post count? Start applying these reel dimension best practices today to boost your reach, elevate your content quality, and stand out in the ever-competitive world of social media video.
