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Format guide · 2026
The complete Instagram Reels video format and upload specification guide for 2026.
| Quality | Dimensions | |
|---|---|---|
| Reels (vertical) | 1080×1920 | Recommended |
| Feed portrait | 1080×1350 | |
| Feed square | 1080×1080 | |
| Feed landscape | 1080×608 |
| Recommended container | MP4 or MOV |
| Video codecs | H.264 |
| Audio codecs | AAC |
| Aspect ratios | 9:16 (Reels, preferred), 4:5 (feed video), 1:1 (square) |
| Frame rates | 23–60 fps |
| Minimum resolution | 600×315 (feed); 1080×1920 recommended for Reels |
| Recommended resolution | 1080×1920 (9:16 for Reels) |
| Maximum file size | 4 GB |
| Maximum duration | Reels: up to 15 minutes; Feed video: up to 60 minutes |
Reels (9:16 vertical) receive far more algorithmic reach than regular feed video posts
Keep critical content (text, faces, logos) in the center 80% of the frame — edges get clipped in some views
Captions and subtitles significantly increase watch time on Instagram; add them before uploading
The first 3 seconds determine whether someone keeps watching — make the hook visual, not a slow intro
What is the best video format for Instagram Reels?
MP4 with H.264 codec at 1080×1920 resolution (9:16 vertical) is the best format for Instagram Reels. This fills the full screen on mobile. Use AAC audio and aim for 30 fps.
How long can an Instagram Reel be?
Instagram Reels can be up to 15 minutes long. Shorter Reels (under 60 seconds) generally see higher completion rates and more algorithmic reach. Feed videos can be up to 60 minutes.
Can I upload the same video to Instagram and TikTok?
Yes — they use the same recommended format: MP4, 1080×1920 (9:16), H.264. If you're distributing to both platforms, Synchro lets you upload once and publish to both simultaneously, so you don't have to go through each platform's upload interface separately.
Synchro uploads your video to Instagram and up to 7 other platforms simultaneously — free to start, no credit card required.
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