Instagram Stories Size and Specs 2026
Every upload spec at a glance, with sources.
Instagram Stories 2026: aspect ratio 9:16, recommended 1440x2560, up to 1 minute.
All specs
| Aspect ratio | 9:16 |
|---|---|
| Recommended resolution | 1440x2560 |
| Maximum length | 1 minute |
| Minimum length | 3 seconds |
| File types | MP4, MOV |
| Maximum frame rate | 60 fps |
Notes (from the sources, in English): 60 s max and 3 s min per story video, MOV/MP4, 23 to 60 fps and 9:16 come from the Graph API Story spec (API file cap 100 MB; story images JPEG, 8 MB). 1440x2560 is the Meta Ads Guide recommendation for Stories. No organic Help Centre spec page for Stories could be verified. Stories stay visible for 24 hours.
In 9:16 the app covers parts of the top and bottom of your video. Check your frame with the safe zone checker or download the safe zone templates as PNG.
Work out bitrate and file size with the file size calculator. Check caption length with the character counter.
Changes in 2025 and 2026
- January 2025: maximum Reels length raised from 90 seconds to 3 minutes, and the profile grid switched from squares to vertical rectangles.
- November 2025: Reels camera can record up to 20 minutes. Help Centre now states record and upload up to 20 minutes, but Reels over 3 minutes are not recommended to new audiences.
- December 2025: hashtags limited to 5 per post or reel (previously 30). Help Centre now says up to 5; the Graph API reference still says 30.
- Help Centre now lists supported photo aspect ratios as 1.91:1 to 3:4 (1080x1440 max); the Graph API still says 4:5 to 1.91:1. Change date not stated.
Sources
- IG User Media, Instagram Graph API reference (Meta for Developers) (official)
- Video ad specs on Instagram Stories (Meta Ads Guide) (official)
Checked: 2026-10-13. Confidence: official. All platforms in one table: social media video specs 2026
Other Instagram formats
FAQ
What size is a Instagram Stories?
The recommended size is 1440x2560 with an aspect ratio of 9:16.
How long can a Instagram Stories be?
Up to 1 minute.