IGTV video dimensions determine how your content appears on Instagram, affecting framing, clarity, and viewer engagement. Understanding the correct specifications helps creators optimize vertical and landscape formats for mobile viewing.
This guide covers exact pixel sizes, safe zones, and export settings so your uploads display cleanly across devices without cropping or distortion.
| Format | Aspect Ratio | Portrait Dimensions | Landscape Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Upload | 9:16 | 1080 x 1920 px | 1080 x 1920 px (vertical) |
| Landscape Video | 16:9 | 1080 x 1920 px (fit) | 1920 x 1080 px |
| Square Feed | 1:1 | 1080 x 1080 px | 1080 x 1080 px |
| Minimum Resolution | - | 540 x 960 px | 540 x 960 px (recommended) |
| Maximum File Size | - | Up to 65 GB for videos up to 60 minutes; 8 GB for uploads via mobile | |
Portrait Vertical Video Specifications
Portrait mode is the default for IGTV and Reels, filling the mobile screen without side bars. The recommended resolution is 1080 x 1920 pixels at a 9:16 aspect ratio, providing sharp visuals on modern devices.
For best quality, export at 30 or 60 frames per second and use H.264 encoding with a high bitrate. Keep text and key visuals within the central 80% of the frame to avoid interference with UI elements.
Landscape Horizontal Video Settings
When to Use Landscape Format
Landscape videos are supported on IGTV but are displayed with pillarboxing, preserving the 16:9 composition. Use this format for cinematic scenes, wide product shots, or desktop-oriented content repurposed for mobile.
The ideal landscape dimensions are 1920 x 1080 pixels, matching Full HD video standards. Maintain a clean center area so important parts remain visible when the video is viewed in portrait containers.
Square Feed and Preview Options
Optimizing for Profile and Feed
Square videos at 1080 x 1080 pixels can be used for cover thumbnails or preview clips that appear in the IGTV channel feed. This format ensures balanced framing for static images and dialogue cards.
Export at 30 frames per second and sRGB color profile for consistent colors across devices. Test how covers look on both iOS and Android since rendering can vary slightly by platform.
Technical Requirements and Export Tips
- Use H.264 codec with AAC audio for maximum compatibility.
- Bitrate around 8–12 Mbps for 1080p content yields good quality without excessive file size.
- Keep key visuals within the central safe zone to avoid cropping on different phones.
- Upload via the Instagram app for best metadata handling and thumbnail control.
- Verify captions and descriptions on both mobile web and the app before publishing.
Technical Best Practices
Following technical best practices ensures your IGTV videos look professional and play smoothly on all devices. Consistent settings reduce upload errors and help maintain viewer retention.
Align your editing presets with recommended dimensions, frame rates, and bitrates to streamline your workflow and avoid re-uploads due to format issues.
- Set frame rate to 30 fps for standard content and 60 fps for fast motion.
- Keep audio levels between -14 and -12 LUFS for consistent volume across posts.
- Use a dedicated key image that respects the central safe zone.
- Test playback on multiple devices before publishing publicly.
FAQ
Reader questions
What exact pixel dimensions should I use for a vertical IGTV video?
1080 x 1920 pixels at 9:16 aspect ratio is the recommended size for sharp, full-screen vertical playback on mobile devices.
Can I upload a 16:9 landscape video to IGTV without issues?
Yes, landscape videos are supported, but they will appear with black bars on the sides; export at 1920 x 1080 pixels for best clarity.
What is the minimum resolution allowed for IGTV uploads?
The practical minimum is 540 x 960 pixels; lower resolutions may appear pixelated, so aim for 1080 x 1920 whenever possible.
What file size limits should I watch for when uploading IGTV content?
Videos up to 60 minutes can be as large as 65 GB, while uploads via mobile are capped at 8 GB per file.