Instagram Upload Specifications: 2026 Edition
These requirements are documented here as of the review date and are advisory, not guarantees. Platforms change their requirements, so always verify against the official documentation linked below before publishing or delivering work.
Supported formats
| Field | Requirement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Container | mp4, mov | Instagram accepts MP4 and MOV. Convert other containers before uploading. |
| Video codec | h264 | Instagram requires H.264 video. Re-encode before uploading. |
| Audio codec | aac | Instagram requires AAC audio. Re-encode the audio track before uploading. |
| Width | 1080 | Keep video width at 1080 px or below for Instagram. |
| Height | 1920 | Keep video height at 1920 px or below for Instagram. |
| Frame rate | 60 | Instagram accepts up to 60 fps, but 30 fps is recommended. |
| Duration | 90 | Reels are best at 90 seconds or under; longer clips may be trimmed. |
| Variable frame rate | Yes | Variable frame rate can cause playback issues. Consider a constant frame rate export. |
Technical explainer
Feed, portrait, and story aspect ratios (4:5, 9:16, 1.91:1) are computed in the UI, not stored as rules.
Keep the most important content within the safe margins. Instagram may crop the edges.
Will my video work on Instagram?
Upload a file (or check one you already have) and get a per-platform compatibility verdict in seconds.
Check my fileFix a problem
Common failures are easy to correct: convert the container or codec, or compress to a size the platform accepts.
Official sources
Platform and product names are used descriptively for reference only; LimkaKit is not affiliated with or endorsed by YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Adobe, or Blackmagic Design.