X Post Size Guidelines for Images, Videos, and Text
Learn the ideal X post sizes for images, videos, and text to avoid cropping, improve load times, and boost engagement on the platform.
Understanding X Post Size and Why It Matters
Optimizing your X post size—including image dimensions, aspect ratios, and file sizes—is essential for ensuring your content looks great and performs well on the X platform (formerly Twitter). The right post size impacts how:
- Your posts appear in followers’ feeds
- Cropping and distortion are avoided
- Media loads quickly for a smoother user experience
- Engagement rates improve through likes, reposts, and clicks
By aligning with the best X post size guidelines, you can significantly boost the visibility and impact of your posts, ensuring they stand out in a competitive feed.
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Official X Image, Video, and Text Size Guidelines
X has specific recommendations for media and text formatting to achieve the best display quality.
| Content Type | Recommended Dimensions | Aspect Ratio | Max File Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Image | 1200 x 675 px | 16:9 | 5 MB (Web), 15 MB (Mobile) |
| Profile Picture | 400 x 400 px | 1:1 | 2 MB |
| Header Image | 1500 x 500 px | 3:1 | 5 MB |
| Animated GIF | Varies | 16:9 or 1:1 | 15 MB (Web), 5 MB (Mobile) |
| Video | 1280 x 720 px (min) | 16:9 or 1:1 | 512 MB |
| Text Character Limit | Up to 280 characters (4,000 for subscribers) | ||
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Ideal Dimensions for Images on X
A single image post should be 1200 x 675 pixels at a 16:9 ratio for a perfect fit in the timeline.
Multi-image layouts are auto-arranged by X:
- Two images: Side by side at a 7:8 aspect ratio
- Three images: One large on the left, two small stacked on the right
- Four images: A grid, each image at a 2:1 aspect ratio
Framing your images to fit these templates will keep your key subject visible.
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Recommended Aspect Ratios for Videos and GIFs
For videos and animated GIFs:
- Landscape: 16:9 (1280 x 720 px for HD)
- Square: 1:1 (1080 x 1080 px for strong mobile presence)
- Vertical: 9:16 (1080 x 1920 px for more screen coverage on mobile)
Pro tip: Square or vertical formats often outperform landscape on mobile because they take up more screen space.
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Optimal File Formats and Maximum Sizes
Choosing the right format maintains high quality while speeding up load times.
- Images: JPEG for photographs, PNG for text and graphics with transparency
- GIFs: Upload directly or convert to MP4 for smaller size and better quality
- Videos: MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio for widest compatibility
| Format | Use Case | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| JPEG | Photographic images | Small file size, good quality |
| PNG | Logos, graphics, text | Lossless, supports transparency |
| MP4 | Videos | Efficient compression, broad support |
| GIF | Loops | Attention-grabbing format |
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How Incorrect Media Sizing Hurts Performance
If you ignore proper X post sizes, you may encounter:
- Cropping: Important elements cut off in previews
- Blurring: From stretching low-resolution images
- Slow load: Oversized files impact user experience
- Low engagement: Poor displays cause scroll-past behavior
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Mobile-First Design for X Posts
Since most X users browse on mobile:
- Ensure text is readable even on small screens
- Keep focal points centered
- Test in mobile preview before posting
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Best Practices for Designing Graphics
Follow these tips for polished, professional posts:
- High contrast for visibility in any lighting
- Safe zones: Keep critical elements away from edges
- Consistent branding to enhance recognition
- Readable fonts: Avoid ornate styles that reduce clarity
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Tools for Perfectly Sized Posts
Use these tools to simplify creation:
- Canva: Ready-to-use X templates
- Adobe Express: Quick professional layouts
- Figma: Ideal for precision designs
- Kapwing: Easy video resizing
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Common X Post Size Mistakes and Fixes
- Low-res images → Start with high-quality assets
- Wrong aspect ratio → Crop before upload
- Too much text → Keep visuals clean
- Oversized files → Compress via TinyPNG or HandBrake
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Testing and Tracking Engagement
Measure the performance benefits of optimized sizes:
- Run A/B tests with different media formats
- Use X analytics to track views, clicks, and shares
- Adjust your standards based on audience behavior
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Final X Post Size Checklist
| Type | Size | Ratio | File Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Image | 1200 x 675 px | 16:9 | 5 MB Web / 15 MB Mobile |
| Profile Picture | 400 x 400 px | 1:1 | 2 MB |
| Header | 1500 x 500 px | 3:1 | 5 MB |
| Video | 1280 x 720 px (min) | 16:9, 1:1, 9:16 | 512 MB |
| GIF | Varies | 16:9 / 1:1 | 15 MB Web / 5 MB Mobile |
| Text | 280–4,000 characters (subscription dependent) | ||
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By mastering X post size best practices, you ensure your media looks crisp across all devices, loads quickly, and drives higher engagement. Start applying these dimensions and formats in your posts today to increase visibility, clicks, and influence on the platform.
