When creating ads for Facebook, one of the most important considerations is choosing the right canvas size. The canvas size refers to the dimensions of the image or video file that will be used in the ad. Selecting the optimal canvas size helps ensure that your ad displays properly across different devices and platforms. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the recommended canvas sizes for different types of Facebook ads so you can create effective and well-formatted ads.
Image Ads
For standard image ads, Facebook recommends using images that are less than 20% text and have dimensions of at least 600 x 315 pixels. The ideal image size is 1200 x 628 pixels for crisp quality on high resolution displays. Using larger images is fine as Facebook will automatically scale down files that are too big. However, keep in mind that larger file sizes can increase load times.
Here are the recommended image dimensions for Facebook ad image ads:
| Ad Format | Dimensions |
| Single Image | 1200 x 628 pixels |
| Single Image | 600 x 315 pixels (minimum) |
| Carousel | 1200 x 628 pixels |
| Carousel | 600 x 600 pixels (minimum) |
For carousel image ads where multiple images rotate through, the minimum size per image is 600 x 600 pixels. However, using 1200 x 628 pixels ensures optimal quality.
Video Ads
When designing video ads for Facebook, there are two key formats to consider – square and landscape:
- Square Video: This is displayed as a 1:1 aspect ratio video on mobile and 1.91:1 on desktop. The recommended resolution is 1080 x 1080 pixels.
- Landscape Video: This uses a 16:9 aspect ratio. The recommended size is 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Keep in mind the following guidelines for Facebook video ads:
- Minimum resolution is 600 x 315 pixels
- Aspect ratio between 1.91:1 – 4:5
- Under 240 minutes long
- Under 4GB in file size
For optimal quality and performance across devices, aim for landscape videos at 1080p resolution. For square format videos that will be viewed on mobile, 1080 x 1080 pixels is ideal.
Stories Ads
Facebook Stories provide a full screen vertical format experience. The recommended canvas size for Facebook Stories ads is:
- 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)
This is optimized for both mobile and desktop viewing in vertical mode. The minimum resolution is 600 x 1067 pixels. As with standard ads, larger files will be scaled down so feel free to use resolutions above 1080 x 1920 if you would like higher quality.
Collection Ads
Collection ads allow showcasing of multiple products or services in a scrollable carousel format. For the collection ads image, you need to upload a 1000 x 1000 pixel image. Each product image in the collection should be 800 x 800 pixels minimum. The ideal size is 1080 x 1080 pixels.
Dynamic Ads
Dynamic ads pull in product imagery dynamically from your product catalog. The required image size is:
- 1200 x 628 pixels
This helps ensure the product images look crisp and clear on Facebook news feeds. Anything above 1200 x 628 is supported but not required.
Facebook Ad Image Guidelines
In addition to picking proper canvas sizes, make sure your Facebook ad images follow these general guidelines:
- Use high resolution images (72 dpi or higher)
- Avoid using text-heavy images
- Images should be relevant to ad content
- Use eye-catching, vibrant images
- Ensure proper image framing and composition
Carefully selected, visually appealing images can dramatically improve the results of your Facebook ads. Use images that are clear, bright, engaging, and consistent with your brand style.
Facebook Ad Video Guidelines
To create effective Facebook video ads, keep these tips in mind:
- Film in landscape format for standard video ads
- Use square 1:1 format for Stories
- Keep videos relevant to your brand and ad content
- Include captions and subtitles
- Optimize video resolution for at least 1080p
- Trim videos for concise messaging
- Use compelling thumbnail images
Well-produced, engaging video ads can yield excellent results on Facebook. Focus on visually captivating videos that quickly communicate your key messaging and value proposition.
Facebook Ad Text Guidelines
In addition to creative assets, the ad text influences performance. Follow these tips for ad text:
- Use 50-90 characters in the headline
- Keep the body text under 125 characters
- Focus the headline and body text on customer benefits
- Use a clear call-to-action button
- Leverage emotional triggers like humor or inspiration
- Use consistent branding and messaging
Compelling ad copy helps drive clicks and conversions. Work headlines, descriptions, and call-to-action language around engaging potential customers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right canvas dimensions ensures your Facebook ads display properly across different platforms and devices. Use the recommended sizes outlined for each format – 1200 x 628 pixels for standard images, 1080 x 1080 pixels for square video, 1920 x 1080 pixels for landscape video, and 1080 x 1920 for Stories.
Additionally, follow best practices for visually appealing, effective creative assets and conversion-focused ad text. With these tips in mind, you can create Facebook ads optimized for results.