1080 x 1350 Aspect Ratio Explained for Social Media
Learn how the 1080 x 1350 resolution translates to a 4:5 aspect ratio and why it’s ideal for Instagram feed posts to boost visibility and engagement.
Introduction: Understanding 1080 x 1350 Pixels in Digital Media
For social media creators and marketers, especially those focused on Instagram, the term 1080 x 1350 pixels comes up often when talking about image optimization. This resolution is widely used for feed posts because it delivers ideal visibility without awkward cropping. But what ratio is 1080 x 1350? Understanding its aspect ratio is vital to producing visually appealing and platform-ready content that captures audience attention.
At its simplest, 1080 pixels is the width and 1350 pixels is the height of the image. These values form the image's resolution and determine how crisp it appears on screen. The aspect ratio—showing the proportional relationship between width and height—is the key to ensuring your image fits social platforms flawlessly.
Calculating the Aspect Ratio Step-by-Step
Follow this simple process to work out the aspect ratio for 1080 x 1350:
- Identify the given resolution:
- Width = 1080 px
- Height = 1350 px
- Find the greatest common divisor (GCD) for both dimensions:
- Both are divisible by 270.
- Divide each by the GCD:
Width: 1080 ÷ 270 = 4
Height: 1350 ÷ 270 = 5- Final aspect ratio: 4:5
This ratio means the width is four units for every five units of height. You can apply the same method to discover the aspect ratio for any resolution.
Confirming the Ratio: 4:5 Explained
The 4:5 aspect ratio is taller than a square (1:1) yet shorter than a vertical video (9:16). This size offers increased vertical presence while remaining balanced.
Why 4:5 works well for social posts:
- Width is 80% of the height.
- Designed for portrait-style display.
- Maximizes screen usage without cropping.
- Favoured by Instagram feeds for optimal viewing.
4:5 vs. Other Common Social Media Aspect Ratios
Aspect ratios vary across social networks and placement types. Here’s how 4:5 compares with other widely used formats.
| Aspect Ratio | Dimensions (Common) | Platform / Usage | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:1 | 1080 x 1080 px | Instagram feed, Facebook posts | Balanced layout, fits everywhere | Less vertical impact |
| 4:5 | 1080 x 1350 px | Instagram feed | Maximises onscreen space | Poor fit for wide formats |
| 9:16 | 1080 x 1920 px | Instagram Stories, TikTok | Immersive vertical experience | Requires cropping in feed |
| 16:9 | 1920 x 1080 px | YouTube videos, Facebook covers | Cinematic horizontal view | Minimal vertical engagement |
Why 4:5 is Preferred for Instagram Feed Posts
Instagram allows up to a 4:5 ratio for feed posts without forcing a crop. This taller portrait size fills more vertical space on mobile screens, naturally grabbing attention.
Popularity reasons for 1080 x 1350 px:
- Stronger visual presence in scrolling feeds.
- Ideal for mobile viewing with vertical device orientation.
- Native support–no compression or resizing issues.
How 1080 x 1350 Pixels Impact Engagement
Data from social media studies show portrait posts frequently surpass square posts in engagement. More vertical space equals more visibility, encouraging interaction.
Advantages include:
- Increased CTRs from stopping the scroll.
- Enhanced storytelling thanks to more vertical room.
- Better text visibility through larger design space.
For influencers and brands, these benefits often translate directly to improved likes, comments, and shares.
Best Practices for Designing in a 4:5 Ratio
Want your 1080 x 1350 images to stand out? Adopt these strategies:
Center Critical Elements
Keep text and focus points away from edges to avoid accidental cropping.
Use High-Resolution Sources
Large images reveal low-quality assets quickly; ensure sharpness.
Apply Vertical Composition
Stack elements, use tall lines, and balance the design with upward flow.
Boost Contrast and Color
Strong colors and contrasts grab attention amid busy feeds.
Check File Size
Large files may load slowly; optimise while maintaining quality.
Tools to Create and Export Images in the 4:5 Ratio
Software solutions to simplify the process include:
- Canva: Flexible custom size option.
- Adobe Photoshop: Professional precision controls.
- Figma: Collaborative design workflows.
- VistaCreate (Crello): Quick social templates.
Export using JPEG or PNG at exactly 1080 x 1350 px.
Common Mistakes with 1080 x 1350 Images
Avoid these pitfalls when working in the 4:5 ratio:
- Distorting the image by stretching.
- Incorrect dimensions at export causing undesired crop.
- Ignoring text safe zones risking cut-off.
- File sizes too large harming load speed.
By steering clear of these, your feed will maintain both professional quality and optimal reach.
Conclusion: Mastering Aspect Ratio for Better Reach and Quality
Understanding what ratio is 1080 x 1350 reveals it as the 4:5 aspect ratio—a proven standard for Instagram feed posts. Leveraging this ratio lets you design content that looks professional, uses screen space efficiently, and boosts engagement.
With the right tools, proven best practices, and attention to avoiding common missteps, you can confidently create content that works seamlessly across platforms. In social media, every pixel counts—make sure yours are perfectly aligned to 1080 x 1350 for maximum impact.
Ready to improve your Instagram engagement? Start creating your next post in 4:5 and watch your results grow.
