Video Optimization Guide
Technical specifications for every platform. Resolution, aspect ratio, file size, codec recommendations.
Platform Specifications
| Platform | Resolution | Aspect Ratio | Max Length | Max File Size | Codec | FPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TikTok | 1080x1920 | 9:16 | 10 min | 287 MB | H.264 | 30 fps |
| Instagram Reels | 1080x1920 | 9:16 | 90 sec | 250 MB | H.264 | 30 fps |
| YouTube Shorts | 1080x1920 | 9:16 | 60 sec | No limit | H.264/VP9 | 60 fps |
| Facebook Reels | 1080x1920 | 9:16 | 90 sec | 4 GB | H.264 | 30 fps |
| 1920x1080 | 16:9 or 1:1 | 10 min | 5 GB | H.264 | 30 fps |
Key Recommendations
Resolution
Export at 1080x1920 (vertical) or 1920x1080 (horizontal). 4K is overkill - platforms compress heavily. 1080p offers the best quality-to-file-size ratio.
Aspect Ratio
9:16 vertical for TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, Facebook Reels. 16:9 horizontal or 1:1 square for LinkedIn and YouTube long-form.
File Format
MP4 with H.264 codec is universally supported. MOV works but MP4 is smaller. Avoid AVI, WMV, or obscure formats.
Audio
AAC codec, 128-256 kbps. Stereo audio. -14 to -6 dB loudness for comfortable listening. Avoid clipping.
Captions
Burn-in captions (hardcoded in video). 85% of users watch without sound. Use readable fonts, contrasting colors, and proper timing.
Bitrate
8-12 Mbps for 1080p video. Higher bitrate = larger file = slower upload. Platforms re-encode anyway, so don't over-optimize.
Recommended Export Settings
Resolution: 1080x1920 (9:16 vertical) Frame Rate: 30 fps Codec: H.264 (AVC) Container: MP4 Bitrate: 8-12 Mbps (VBR) Audio: AAC, 256 kbps, Stereo Loudness: -14 LUFS Premiere Pro: H.264 preset, match source Final Cut: Apple Devices 1080p DaVinci Resolve: YouTube 1080p preset CapCut: Default export settings
Upload Optimized Videos
Export your videos with these settings, then schedule them across all platforms.
Start UploadingFrequently Asked Questions
Should I use 4K or 1080p for short-form video?
1080p is plenty. TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts all compress video heavily. 4K adds upload time without visible quality improvement.
What's the best export codec?
H.264 (.mp4) is universally supported and well-compressed. For YouTube, H.265 or VP9 can work but aren't necessary for Shorts.
Do I need to add captions/subtitles?
Yes. 85% of social media videos are watched without sound. Burned-in captions increase watch time by 12% on average.
What frame rate should I use?
30 fps for most content. 60 fps for fast-paced content (sports, gaming). Higher fps = larger file size with diminishing returns on mobile screens.