Twitter Video Length Limit: Complete Guide to Upload Times & File Sizes (2025)

January 10, 2025
Jeff Tully

Twitter's video length restrictions can be confusing for content creators who want to share their stories. While the platform is famous for its bite-sized text updates, what's the case with video content?

For standard users, Twitter’s video length max is 140 seconds, with a file size limit of 512MB. These constraints seem to be in line with Twitter's original focus on quick, digestible content.

But Premium users now get the upgrade, with the chance to upload videos up to 3 hours long and file sizes reaching 8GB in 1080p quality. Quite a difference, huh? Without further ado, let’s dive deeper into these specs and check out some useful tips for your Twitter video content!

Current Video Length Limits on Twitter

Twitter sets different video length restrictions based on your account type.  That’s because they want to keep their performance on point but also meet different user needs.

Here is the breakdown of the video content upload options for Free vs. Premium users on Twitter:

The table compares free and premium Twitter accounts and their video content limits. Free accounts have a 140-second video limit, a 512MB file size cap, and can only upload one video per tweet.

Premium accounts open up a whole new world with longer videos, bigger file sizes, and even the chance to upload multiple videos per tweet. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to post more than just short clips. 

Video File Size and Format Requirements

Twitter sets limits on file size and formats to keep the platform running smoothly and make sure videos play perfectly on all devices.

Supported File Formats

Twitter accepts videos in MP4 and MOV formats with specific codec requirements listed below:

  • MP4 files: H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec (best for web uploads)
  • MOV files: For mobile app uploads
  • Resolution range: From 32x32 px to 1920x1200 px
  • Frame rate: Between 40-60 FPS for smooth playback

Maximum File Size Limits

Different file size limits also depend on account type:

The table shows that standard/free accounts can upload videos up to 512MB, with a max resolution of 1920x1200 pixels. On the other hand, premium accounts get way more room (up to 16GB) but stick to the same resolution limit.

If those resolution numbers don't mean much to you, here are some common video formats that might give you a better idea: 

  • Landscape orientation: 1280x720 pixels (16:9 aspect ratio)
  • Portrait orientation: 720x1280 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)
  • Square format: 720x720 pixels (1:1 aspect ratio)

Still nothing? Keep reading as the next part will clear it up!

Video Dimensions and Specifications

Twitter's video specs cover the perfect mix of aspect ratios, resolutions, and tech details to make sure that your videos have the same quality on any device.

Recommended Aspect Ratios

Twitter supports three main aspect ratios for video content, which you’ve probably noticed several lines above:

  • 16:9 (landscape) - Ideal for horizontal shots, like cinematic videos
  • 9:16 (portrait) - Perfect for vertical content, like mobile phone recordings
  • 1:1 (square) - Works for versatile social media content
Aspect Ratio Dimensions (pixels) Common Use Case
16:9 1920 x 1080 Landscape videos
9:16 1080 x 1920 Portrait videos
1:1 1080 x 1080 Square videos

Want some more numbers? Here are other aspects to keep in mind when figuring out the aspect ratios.

  • Minimum resolution: 32 x 32 px
  • Maximum resolution: 1920 x 1200 (landscape) or 1200 x 1920 (portrait)
  • Frame rate: Up to 40 FPS standard, 60 FPS maximum
  • Bitrate: Maximum 25 Mbps

How to Upload Longer Videos

Twitter gives you plenty of ways to upload videos based on account type and platform. Here's how you can make the most out of your video uploads on Twitter:

  1. Open the compose box (either on the website or mobile app).
  2. Click the gallery icon to access media upload options.
  3. Select your video file from your device storage.
  4. Check if the file meets these criteria:
  • Standard accounts: 140 seconds max, 512MB limit
  • Premium accounts: 4 hours max, 16GB limit at 1080p
  • Videos 2-4 hours: 720p resolution required
  1. Write your tweet text.
  2. Click the post button to publish.

Uploading Tips‍

Here’s what you can do to make your Twitter video content memorable and perform at its best:

  1. Split longer videos: Break up your video into 140-second chunks for standard accounts. Also, you can use video editing software to preserve the quality. Number chunks in the text of your post to make it user/viewer-friendly.

  1. Optimize video specifications: Compress files to meet size limits, use either one of the supported formats (MP4, MOV), and adjust the resolution to meet the platform standards. Plus, make sure that your aspect ratios are (16:9, 9:16, 1:1).

  2. Upload alternative formats: If your video is too long or exceeds any limits, share video links from compatible platforms (YouTube, Vimeo, Twitch), create video threads to break it up into smaller parts, or post preview clips with links to full content. 

Best Tips to Make Your Twitter Videos Pop

To get the most out of your Twitter videos, you need the right tricks to boost engagement while sticking to platform rules. Here’s what you need to know to make your videos stand out.

Here’s how you can level up your video content game:

  • Optimize video quality: The optimal video specifications guarantee maximum quality on all devices. So, make sure to always export in MP4 format (H.264 + AAC) and keep resolution between 1280x720p (HD) and 1920x1080p (Full HD).

  • Use the right aspect ratio: Use 16:9 for cinematic landscape footage, 9:16 for mobile-friendly portrait content, or 1:1 for square videos perfect for the feed.

  • Pick the right frame rate: Stick to 40 fps for smooth playback.

  • Compress your files: Do so, but keep the quality high.

  • Use thumbnails: High-contrast custom thumbnails from the video’s best frames attract viewers.

  • Keep it short and sweet: Aim for videos between 20-45 seconds for optimal viewer retention.

  • Add captions: Many viewers watch the videos without the text, so make sure they can still follow with the on-screen text or captions.

  • Test different video formats: Unsure what works best for your audience? Try a few options and see which one sticks.

  • Be strategic with the text: Put critical content in the first 3-5 seconds, and use bold text for key points.

Can Twitter Video Length Limit Work in Your Favor?

Twitter's video limitations shape how we share content on the platform. While they can feel restrictive, knowing how to take advantage of them is far more important. Working with the Free 140-second limit and 512MB file size? Or enjoying Premium benefits with 10-minute videos and 16GB capacity? No matter what’s the case, just optimize your videos for the platform specs to get the best results.

Remember to choose the right aspect ratio and stick to proper technical specs to make sure your videos look sharp on all devices. With these guidelines and your creativity, you'll be able to experiment with different formats and engage your audience through your effective Twitter video content.

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