The maximum length for an Instagram Reel in 2023 is 90 seconds or 60 seconds if you are creating it from the Instagram camera. So the size of an Instagram Reel is dependent on its length, but is limited to those maximum durations set by Instagram.
Instagram Reels allow users to create short, entertaining videos that can be shared and discovered on Instagram. Reels can be recorded and edited directly within the Instagram app, making it easy for anyone to become a creator.
When Reels first launched in 2020, they were limited to 15 seconds long. But Instagram quickly increased the limit to 30 seconds as Reels gained popularity. Then in 2021, Instagram again doubled the limit to 60 seconds maximum.
In early 2023, Instagram expanded Reels up to 90 seconds long. But this new 90 second limit only applies to Reels created using video uploaded from your camera roll. For Reels recorded using the in-app camera, the limit is still 60 seconds.
Maximum Reel Length
So in summary, here are the current Reel length limits as of 2023:
- Reels created using uploaded video clips can be up to 90 seconds long
- Reels recorded using the Instagram camera are limited to 60 seconds
The reason uploaded videos can now be longer is because Instagram wants to better compete with short-form video apps like TikTok. TikTok currently allows videos up to 10 minutes, so 90 seconds is still quite short by comparison.
But the 60 second camera recording limit remains in place to encourage creators to post frequently instead of creating one long Reel. The idea is to keep the content more snackable and quick for viewers to consume.
Optimal Reel Length
Just because you can make a 90 second Reel doesn’t mean you always should. The best performing Reels are typically much shorter:
- 15-30 seconds is ideal for very viral, engaging Reels
- 30-60 seconds works well for tutorials, recipes, and storytelling
- Only use the full 90 seconds for things like interviews, product reviews, or other content that requires more time
Shorter Reels tend to get more views and shares simply because they are faster to watch. Viewers are more likely to sit through a 15 second clip than a 90 second clip while scrolling through their feed.
You can also break longer content up into multiple shorter Reels. Episodes and serial content perform very well. This keeps viewers invested to see the next part while serving more digestible content.
Aspect Ratio
In addition to length, Reels are also limited in their aspect ratio. This is the orientation and dimensions of the video frame.
Instagram Reels must be in a 9:16 vertical video format. This matches the vertical scroll of the Instagram and Reels feeds.
Horizontal video can not be used for Reels. Instagram will automatically crop horizontal video into a vertical format, but this may cut off important parts of the frame.
Some aspect ratios Instagram Reels support include:
- 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16)
- 720 x 1280 pixels (9:16)
- 540 x 960 pixels (9:16)
Higher resolutions like 1080p will have better video quality. But even lower resolution vertical video like 720p or 540p works fine for Reels.
The optimal resolution depends on how you are creating the Reel:
- Use 1080p or 720p for uploaded clips from your camera roll
- Record directly in the app at 540p resolution
Reels sizes for businesses
For businesses using Reels to promote products and services, consider these vertical video tips:
- Highlight key product features in tight portrait framing
- Use close-up 9:16 shots to showcase details
- Model products being used or worn in vertical compositions
- Capture testimonials and reviews from real mobile perspectives
The more you embrace and adapt to the vertical, mobile-first mindset, the better your branded Reels will perform.
File Size
File size is another consideration for Instagram Reels, although there is no strict file size limit enforced.
Instagram compresses uploaded videos which makes the file sizes smaller. A 90 second 1080p Reel may end up being around 30-40MB after compression.
Smaller 720p or 540p Reels will have even smaller file sizes, usually under 10MB even at the 90 second limit.
Some tips to minimize Reel file sizes include:
- Use shorter length videos like 15 or 30 seconds
- Record directly in lower resolution 540p with the Instagram camera
- Trim any unnecessary sections from your video clips before uploading
- Use a third party app to compress videos if needed
The lower you can get your video file sizes, the faster they will upload and process in the Instagram app.
Image Quality
High definition 1080p video will generally have the best image quality for Instagram Reels. This looks great on mobile screens when viewed up close.
But 720p or even 540p can still look decent despite being lower resolutions. And the compression Instagram applies helps smooth out image quality.
If you are recording on your phone try setting the resolution to 1080p if your camera allows it. Or use the rear facing camera instead of front facing as it typically records in higher definition.
When editing, don’t degrade quality by exporting multiple times. Export your final Reel at 1080p or 720p for best results.
Also keep in mind Instagram Reels don’t support 4K resolution like standard image and video posts. Stick to 1080p or lower for Reels.
Tools to Create Reels
You can use both native and third-party apps to produce properly sized Instagram Reels:
- Instagram Camera – Record directly in the Instagram Stories camera at 540p and 60 seconds max.
- iOS Camera App – Record 1080p or 720p clips up to 90 seconds on newer iPhones.
- Adobe Premier Rush – Export final videos at 1080p or 720p, 60 or 90 seconds.
- InShot – This popular editing app supports Instagram’s 9:16 ratio and lengths.
- Kapwing – Web and mobile app with Reels templates and Instagram-specific exporting.
There are many other mobile apps that support short vertical video editing for social media. Shop around to find one with features you like.
The key is they need to export properly in a 9:16 vertical frame at 1080p, 720p or 540p resolution. And must allow 60/90 second maximum video lengths.
Optimizing Reels for Mobile
Always preview your Reels on a mobile device before publishing to ensure the format looks as intended.
Vertical orientation may appear cropped and small on a desktop viewer. But will fill the entire mobile phone screen as intended.
Pay attention to how text overlays and other graphics appear on the mobile screen. Avoid alignment or text issues from transferring between desktop and mobile apps.
View your Reel in both portrait and landscape mobile orientations. Make sure the subject is framed properly and text is legible in both.
Check that the audio sounds clear through mobile speakers. And is not too quiet or peeking. This is important as most viewers will watch Reels with audio on.