Are you a creator? Or just a common being who loves watching reels of creators like me? Over 2 billion people use Instagram, and reels account for 50% of time spent.
Since you know everything about the Instagram reel feature you would agree that it opens up a world where short and snappy videos rule the internet!
With the rise of TikTok and other short-form video platforms, Instagram also decided to go with the flow and introduced its own version of bite-sized content. But, have you ever thought about how long these reels are exactly? Or How long can Instagram Reels be?
Well, Instagram Reels can range from 3 to 30 seconds in length. That may not sound like a lot, but considering that the average attention span is only 8 seconds, it’s quite generous.
Plus the ability to add music, effects, and filters can change your Reel game.
This guide explores everything about Instagram Reels and discusses how long can a Reel be along with the importance of Reel length and a lot more.
If you’re already familiar with features like resetting your Instagram Explore page or screenshotting stories, understanding Reel lengths can help you better leverage this platform’s tools.
Introduction to Instagram Reels
The Reel feature of Instagram is a dynamic way to create and share short video content. It provides individuals are creators with a platform to showcase creativity, talent, and personality.
Moreover, the fun editing tools and music integration ability act as a cherry on top. However, reels attract attention, like no other format.
Fun Fact:
Muhammed Rizwan, India’s freestyle footballer holds the world’s most-viewed Instagram reel with over 491 million views.
Even the brand influencers adopted this feature as they recognized its potential for engagement.
How Long Can Instagram Reels Be?
Initially, Instagram limited Reels to just 15 seconds. Now, however, you can make them up to 90 seconds long. While longer Reels allow for more storytelling, Instagram’s algorithm may not prioritize overly lengthy content.
As of now, the maximum length for an Instagram Reel is 90 seconds. Note that: just because you can create a longer reel doesn’t mean you should.
And, ideally, 60 seconds is the perfect length. And you all agree that this time period gives enough time for one to engage with their audience.
There is one more perspective on how long can Reels be on Instagram, the CEO of Instagram, Adam Mosseri said Reels above 90 seconds can hurt distribution. Also, the possibility is that the algorithm may not prioritize longer reels.
However, if your reel feels too long to get to the point, audiences may swipe away before finishing it
The Importance of Instagram Reel Length
Why did Instagram choose this specific range for their Reels? As per social media experts, shorter videos tend to perform better on social media platforms. Studies have shown that videos under 15 seconds receive more engagement than longer ones.
This could be due to the increasingly busy lives and desire for instant enjoyment. So what does this mean for you as a content creator? It means that you have a very short window of time to capture your audience’s attention and make an impact.
Pro Tip: If you’ve ever wondered how small tweaks, like adjusting a Facebook post’s privacy settings, can boost engagement, the same principle applies here. Thoughtful adjustments in format and length can make a huge difference.
Other Metrics To Know About Instagram Reel Size
The ideal reel is not just about short or long videos. In fact, it’s about the size that fits the screen of a user’s mobile.
Apart from this, the dimensions play a huge role. Below, you can take a look at the specifics of Instagram Reel dimensions:
| Specifics | Dimensions |
| Reel size in pixels | 1080 pixels x 1920 pixels |
| Reel size ratio | Aspect ratios of 9:16 and 4:5 |
| Frame size | The combination of pixel dimensions and aspect ratio mentioned above |
| Cover size | 1080 pixels X 1920 pixels with an aspect ratio of 9:16 |
| Thumbnail size | 1080 X 1080 pixels and an aspect ratio of 1:1 |
| Compression size | The maximum resolution is 1080 pixels, the minimum is 320 pixels, and the aspect ratio should be between 1:91:1 and 4:5. |
| Reel caption length | 2200 characters |
Trim Reel to Meet the Ideal Instagram Reel Length
Now that you have got your answer to the question of how long can Instagram Reels be? So, if you have recorded a long video content, then worry not. Because you can still trim it to meet the ideal length for maximum engagement.
So, if you are running overtime, then you can team it by following these simple steps:
- Launch the Instagram app.
- Click on the “+” icon.
- Select and upload a video that you wish to trim.
- Now, tap on the “Edit Video” option to move ahead. You can find this option at the bottom of the screen.
- Tap on the clip in the editing timeline.
- Press the yellow slider and drag left or right to adjust the length of the video.
- Apply a slider to span the desired video length.
- Once you are happy with the changes, press the “Blue Arrow Pointing Towards Right”.
- Make other changes along with a thumbnail and caption, including speed, filter, text, mention, etc.
Concerning Factors When Deciding the Instagram Reel Length
When deciding how long can IG reels be, a few factors come into play. This phrase may include everything from your specific requirements to the production elements. All such factors are crucial in determining the most suitable duration of your reel.
Here are the key considerations to help you make an informed decision:
- Instagram Requirements: The first factor should be familiarizing with the requirements as per the platform. As stated above, the maximum duration for an IG reel is 30 seconds. However, the video must be within this time limit.
- Production Elements: Next comes the production elements involved in creating your IG reel. For example, if you are planning to include complex visual effects or transitions, then long videos might be necessary to showcase these elements effectively.
- Video Message or Purpose: The video message or purpose should also play a significant role in determining how long can reels be on Instagram. For instance, if you are trying to convey a simple idea or promote a product or service, then a shorter reel is ideal. Whereas, if you are up to more detailed tutorials, then a longer reel is necessary.
- Audience Consideration: This isn’t the most crucial, but it can be a deciding factor in determining how long can Instagram reels be. Let’s say, your target audience of younger individuals with shorter attention spans, then the shorter reel is effective to keep their attention.
Ideal Instagram Reel Length for Different Types of Content
In this section, I have discussed how long are reels on Instagram based on the type of content:
- For quick tutorials or how-to videos, videos of around 15-30 seconds are effective. This short format captures the attention without overwhelming viewers.
- Are you a storyteller? Then it might require a bit more room. For that matter, you can create 30-60 seconds including personal stories or brand narratives. Such duration allows for deeper engagement and maintains interest.
- For promotional content, a dynamic 10-20-second clip can effectively showcase products and catch the attention of followers without losing their focus.
- Willing to create an entertainment-driven Reel? For that, a 15-45-second clip will keep your audience entertained.
Post Longer Reels in 3 Ways
Does the type of content you create require you to upload a long-format video? If that’s the case, then there are still ways to keep them interesting as well as ideal as per the Instagram requirements:
- Host an Instagram Live: Creators with a huge following may not find 60 or 90-second clips enough to explain things thoroughly. One possible way is to go live. The live feature does not imply any limitations and can go beyond the 30-second limit. This possibility is mostly useful for events or product launches.
- Break Video Into Parts: Instead of trying to fit all the content into a shot video, break it into multiple parts and uncover details with each part. This will encourage your followers to come back and crave what’s next.
- Direct Traffic Elsewhere: Lastly, if you have a longer reel that exceeds Instagram’s time limit, use it as a teaser or preview and direct viewers to watch the full version on another platform like YouTube or Vimeo.
Conclusion
To end this guide with a short answer to the question of how long can Instagram Reels be 60 seconds. However, to further determine the Instagram Reel length, the key lies in understanding the audience and experimenting with different formats.
Shot reels are snappy and engaging, whereas long videos allow for people’s storytelling and more detailed content.
Besides, focusing only on the length, I recommend individuals to focus on the other specifics and dimensions to create a reel that accesses your marketing strategy. It is because, if you are making an effort then the video should perform well.
