YouTube Shorts Size Guide 2025
Complete specifications for YouTube Shorts. Master vertical video format, optimal resolutions, and best practices for maximum views and engagement.
Detailed YouTube Shorts Specifications
📊 Quick Reference
Optimal Settings
- • Resolution: 1080×1920 pixels
- • Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (Vertical)
- • Frame Rate: 24, 25, or 30 fps
- • Bitrate: 6-12 Mbps
Requirements
- • Duration: Up to 60 seconds
- • File Size: Up to 15GB
- • Format: MP4, MOV
- • Codec: H.264, H.265
Detailed YouTube Shorts Specifications
Video Requirements
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical) - This is crucial for Shorts
- Recommended Resolution: 1080×1920 pixels
- Minimum Resolution: 720×1280 pixels
- Maximum Duration: 60 seconds
- File Size Limit: 15GB
- Frame Rate: 24, 25, or 30 fps (30 fps recommended)
Audio Specifications
- Audio Codec: AAC-LC
- Audio Bitrate: 128 kbps or higher
- Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz
- Channels: Stereo (2 channels)
- Music: YouTube Audio Library recommended
Content Guidelines for YouTube Shorts
- Title: Include "#Shorts" in title or description
- Thumbnail: YouTube auto-generates from video
- Safe Area: Keep important content in center 90%
- Text Size: Use large, readable fonts
- Hook: Capture attention in first 3 seconds
Comparison: YouTube Shorts vs Regular Videos
| Feature | YouTube Shorts | Regular Videos |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 60 seconds | Up to 12 hours |
| Aspect Ratio | 9:16 (Vertical) | 16:9 (Horizontal) |
| Discovery | Shorts shelf, mobile feed | Search, suggested videos |
| Monetization | Shorts Fund, memberships | Full monetization options |
Optimal Upload Settings
- Format: MP4 with H.264 codec
- Resolution: 1080×1920 pixels (Full HD vertical)
- Frame Rate: 30 fps
- Bitrate: 8-12 Mbps for video
- Audio: AAC at 128-256 kbps
- Color Space: Rec. 709
YouTube Shorts Algorithm Tips
- Hook viewers immediately - first 3 seconds are critical
- Use trending sounds and music from YouTube Audio Library
- Include "#Shorts" in title or description
- Create loops to increase watch time
- Use text overlays for accessibility
- Post consistently to build momentum
- Engage with comments quickly
- Create series or follow trends
Content Creation Best Practices
Video Structure
- • Strong hook (0-3 seconds)
- • Clear middle content (3-50 seconds)
- • Call-to-action ending (50-60 seconds)
- • Loop back to beginning for rewatches
Visual Design
- • Keep text large and centered
- • Use high contrast colors
- • Avoid small details
- • Design for mobile viewing
Common YouTube Shorts Mistakes
- • Using horizontal (16:9) format instead of vertical (9:16)
- • Making videos longer than 60 seconds
- • Forgetting to add "#Shorts" to title/description
- • Using copyrighted music instead of YouTube Audio Library
- • Having a weak or slow opening hook
- • Including too much text or small details
Content Types That Perform Well
- Tutorials: Quick how-to content
- Behind-the-scenes: Raw, authentic moments
- Challenges: Trending challenges and hashtags
- Comedy: Quick jokes and funny moments
- Educational: Fast facts and tips
- Music: Covers, dances, and music content
- Lifestyle: Daily life glimpses
⚠️ YouTube Shorts Important Notes
- • Vertical format (9:16) is mandatory for Shorts shelf placement
- • Videos must be 60 seconds or less to qualify as Shorts
- • Include "#Shorts" in title or description for better discovery
- • Use YouTube's built-in editing tools for better algorithm favor
- • Shorts compete differently than regular videos - focus on engagement
- • Mobile-first design is crucial as 70%+ viewers are on mobile
Features
YouTube Shorts Features
Essential features and specifications for creating engaging YouTube Shorts that compete with TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Vertical Format
Optimized for 9:16 vertical viewing to maximize mobile screen real estate and engagement.
60-Second Limit
Maximum 60-second duration designed for quick consumption and high completion rates.
Discovery Focused
Powerful discovery features with dedicated Shorts shelf and recommendation algorithm.
Monetization Ready
Access to YouTube Partner Program and Shorts Fund for eligible creators.
Analytics Integration
Comprehensive analytics through YouTube Studio with Shorts-specific metrics.
Community Features
Comments, likes, subscriptions, and community posts integration with main channel.
FAQ
YouTube Shorts FAQ
Common questions about YouTube Shorts specifications and best practices.
What's the exact size requirement for YouTube Shorts?
YouTube Shorts must be 1080×1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio) and 60 seconds or less in duration. The video will be automatically recognized as a Short if it meets these criteria.
Can I upload horizontal videos as YouTube Shorts?
No, YouTube Shorts must be vertical (9:16 aspect ratio). Horizontal videos won't be recognized as Shorts and will appear as regular YouTube videos with letterboxing in the Shorts player.
Do YouTube Shorts need #Shorts in the title?
While not always required, adding '#Shorts' in the title or description helps YouTube recognize your video as a Short, especially if the aspect ratio is slightly off or there are other technical issues.
What's the maximum file size for YouTube Shorts?
YouTube Shorts follow the same upload limits as regular YouTube videos: up to 256GB or 12 hours duration. However, Shorts are capped at 60 seconds, so file size is rarely an issue.
Why aren't my Shorts showing up in the Shorts feed?
Ensure your video is vertical (9:16), under 60 seconds, and add #Shorts to the title. Also check that your content follows YouTube's community guidelines and isn't copyright-restricted.
Can I monetize YouTube Shorts?
Yes, eligible creators can monetize Shorts through the YouTube Partner Program, Shorts Fund, Super Thanks, channel memberships, and other YouTube monetization features.