Instagram Reels Video Specifications 2025
Complete guide to Instagram Reels dimensions, aspect ratios, and technical specifications for 2025. Optimize your Reels for maximum engagement with the right video size and format.
Quick Specs
Dimensions & Resolution
Optimal for full-screen viewing experience
New ratio supported May 2025, great for portrait content
How it appears when viewed in feed
Video Duration
Minimum: 3 seconds
Maximum: 180 seconds
Up to 3 minutes (180 seconds) as of January 2025
Important Notes
Instagram Reels support up to 3 minutes (180 seconds) as of January 2025, announced by Adam Mosseri. The 9:16 vertical aspect ratio (1080×1920px) is required for proper display. Videos appear in the Reels tab, Explore feed, and main Instagram feed. Note: The 2022 update that auto-shared videos under 15 minutes as Reels has evolved - follow current in-app composer guidance for classification.
Optimization Tips
- ✓Export at 1080p using H.264 codec for optimal quality
- ✓Keep important content in the center 4:5 safe zone
- ✓Use 30fps for standard content, 60fps for action/sports
- ✓Upload in MP4 format for best compatibility
- ✓Add captions for accessibility and engagement
- ✓Optimal length is 15-30 seconds for maximum engagement
Sources & Verification
Last verified: 2025-09-28
3-minute Reels announced January 2025 by Adam Mosseri on Threads. 9:16 vertical format required.
Safe Zones
⚠️ Percentage of screen height to avoid for UI elements
cover Photo
Cover photo for Reels tab
thumbnail
thumbnail Dimensions
Square thumbnail for profile grid
captions
caption Recommendations
Keep captions concise for better engagement
Never resize videos manually again
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length for Instagram Reels in 2025?
Instagram Reels can be up to 3 minutes (180 seconds) as of January 2025, expanded from the previous 90-second limit. Any video under 15 minutes posted to Instagram automatically becomes a Reel. Note: The 3-minute update may not be available to all users yet.
What aspect ratio should I use for Instagram Reels?
Use 9:16 aspect ratio (1080×1920 pixels) for optimal full-screen viewing. While 4:5 is supported, it won't fill the entire screen and may not perform as well.
Can I upload 4K videos to Instagram Reels?
While you can upload 4K videos, Instagram will compress them to 1080p. It's better to export at 1080p to control the quality yourself.
What's the best file format for Instagram Reels?
MP4 with H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec provides the best balance of quality and file size for Instagram Reels.
Recent Updates
Instagram extended Reels to 3 minutes (180 seconds). Adam Mosseri announced the update
Videos under 15 minutes automatically shared as Reels
Related Specifications
Instagram Stories
2025Complete guide to Instagram Stories dimensions, formats, and specifications for 2025. Create engaging Stories with the perfect size and format for maximum visibility.
Instagram Feed
2025Complete guide to Instagram feed post dimensions and image specifications for 2025. Optimize your feed posts with the perfect size and aspect ratio for maximum engagement.