Highlights
- Reels account for 30% of user time on Instagram, significantly increasing visibility and attracting new followers.
- Reels can be up to 90 seconds using the app or 15 minutes when uploaded, adapting to various content needs.
- Research suggests the ideal Reel length is 7-15 seconds, maximizing reach and impact on Instagram’s algorithm.
- The 90-second limit allows creators more freedom, resulting in better-ranked, high-quality videos.
- Instagram’s in-app trimming tool makes it simple to adjust video lengths, ensuring the content fits perfectly as Reels.
When you log on to Instagram, it might seem like it's all about pictures. However, the platform is rapidly evolving into a multi-media hub. With over 1.21 billion users growing, Instagram continuously adds new features to keep pace with other platforms. One of the most notable additions is Instagram Reels.
So, what exactly are Instagram Reels? The days of only uploading photos to Instagram are long gone. Since their launch, Reels have been a powerful tool for capturing users' attention and boosting engagement.
In this post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the optimal length for Instagram Reels and other content straight from the experts at Instagram.
What Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are a dynamic tool for online communication and engagement. Reels are short-form, full-screen videos crafted to captivate your audience and enhance brand awareness.
Reels offer numerous benefits! Their diverse content can be applied across various industries and niches, providing a broad appeal. Reels can also significantly boost your discoverability.
Moreover, research shows that Reels engage 30% more users on the Instagram app, offering opportunities to increase visibility and engage new audiences.
How Long Can A Reel Be on Instagram 2024?
Instagram Reels can be almost 90 seconds or even 15 minutes long, depending on how they are created.
When using the Instagram Reels tool directly within the app, the maximum length is 90 seconds. The default length for Reels created via the Instagram camera is 15 seconds. Still, users can extend this by adjusting settings during recording or uploading longer videos, which can then be shared as Reels.
According to TechCrunch, Instagram announced that any video shorter than 15 minutes posted to the app would automatically be shared as a Reel. Videos posted before this change remained unaffected.
In 2023, Instagram successfully consolidated its video formats, allowing for longer Reels. This update is why some Reels now exceed the previous 90-second limit.
What’s the Best Instagram Reel Length?
Instagram Reels are short videos designed to create immediate interaction between users and their followers, especially influencers. It's essential to determine the best length for these videos to maximize the reach and impact of your IG Reels, as it influences how they rank in Instagram’s algorithm.
Optimal Length for Instagram Reels
So, how long can an Instagram Reel be ideal?
While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, research suggests 7—15 seconds is a sweet spot. Videos of this length are concise and deliver a clear message. However, the ideal length ultimately depends on your content strategy.
Key Strategies for Effective Reels
- First Three Seconds: The initial three seconds of your video are crucial. This period determines whether viewers will continue watching or skip to the next video.
- Content Over Length: Avoid using fillers. Every second should count. If your message requires more time, don't hesitate to use up to 90 seconds, but make sure you have enough valuable content to fill that duration.
Experiment with Different Lengths
Experimenting with different video lengths is beneficial to find what works best for your audience. Depending on your content, you may discover that 60-90 seconds is more suitable.
What Does the 90-Second IG Reel Time Limit Mean for Creators?
Since its launch in 2020 with a 15-second limit, Instagram has extended the Reels time limit to 90 seconds. This change offers creators more flexibility to produce detailed videos with clear messages.
Benefits of the 90-Second Limit
- More Creative Freedom: Creators can post more comprehensive and engaging content without feeling rushed.
- Better Ranking: The IG algorithm may favor longer, well-structured videos, potentially increasing visibility for skit makers and influencers.
- Enhanced Content Quality: With more time, creators can add depth and creativity to their videos, enhancing viewer experience.
As Instagram evolves, users will increasingly encounter longer Reels from their favorite creators, showcasing more detailed and creative content.
How Do You Trim Videos To Fit The Length of Reels?
Now you know how long can a reel be on Instagram, but what if your clip runs longer? Fortunately, trimming video content is easy with the right tools, allowing you to cut out extraneous details and create Instagram-compatible reels.
Reel Trimming on Instagram
You can trim reels directly within the Instagram platform, making it convenient if you film your content using the app. Here's how:
Step 1: Install the Instagram app, start your reel project, and select a video you wish to post. The edit video button can be found at the bottom left of your screen. Click on it.
Step 2: Go back to the clit you want to edit in the timeline area on the screen. To change the duration of your video, press and drag the yellow line on the timeline.
Step 3: Adjust the slider to span your desired video length. To cut a section from your clip, use the split function. Place the marker at the beginning of the section you want to cut, select “Split,” then do the same at the end. Click on the clip and select “Discard.”
Step 4: If you’re satisfied with the changes, press the “Blue Arrow” in the right corner.
Step 5: Make any additional edits, such as adding a thumbnail and caption, before sharing your Instagram Reel or saving it.
Additional Tip: You can also select the “Speed” option at the end of your screen and drag the slider to alter the playback speed, which can help reduce the viewing length of your video.
Conclusion
Understanding how long can a reel be on Instagram is crucial for maximizing engagement and visibility. With Reels accommodating up to 90 seconds of dynamic content, creators have ample opportunity to craft compelling videos that resonate with their audience. Whether aiming for concise messages or more detailed storytelling, leveraging Instagram's flexible format ensures content remains engaging.
FAQ
How Long Can A Reel Be on Instagram?
The ideal reel length should be 7-15 seconds, but you can extend it to 60 or 90 seconds and even 15 minutes.
