Vertical video specs for Reels, Shorts and TikTok
The vertical size to export for TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, how long a clip can be on each, and how to cut a vertical version of a song you have already made.
All three vertical platforms want the same shape, which makes this simpler than it looks: build one vertical clip and post it three times.
The size to export
| Platform | Aspect | Export |
|---|---|---|
| TikTok | 9:16 | 2160 x 3840 |
| Instagram Reels | 9:16 | 2160 x 3840 |
| YouTube Shorts | 9:16 | 2160 x 3840 |
How long can a vertical clip be?
YouTube Shorts allows up to 3 minutes, with the full rules on YouTube Shorts specs. TikTok and Reels have both raised their limits repeatedly, so check the app rather than an article. For music, the practical answer is shorter than the maximum: a hook, not a whole song.
How do I make a vertical version of a video I already made?
Open the same project, switch the format to vertical in the top bar and render again. The layout reflows for the taller frame rather than cropping the landscape one, so nothing important ends up outside the picture. Renders are unlimited, so this costs nothing but the wait.
Keep the important part away from the edges
Every vertical app puts its own interface over your video: captions, a username, a row of buttons down the right side. Keep titles and faces in the middle of the frame and away from the bottom third, which is where the caption sits on all three.
Common questions
What size is a TikTok video?
9:16 vertical. Exporting at 1080 by 1920 or larger is right; LimePulse exports vertical at 2160 by 3840.
Can I post the same clip to TikTok, Reels and Shorts?
Yes. They take the same shape, so one export covers all three. Some creators re-upload rather than cross-post so each platform treats it as native content.
Why does my vertical video have black bars?
Because it was exported in a different shape and the app padded it. Export vertical rather than cropping a landscape file, and the bars disappear.
Related reading
Last updated 2026-09-15
LimePulse is not affiliated with, sponsored or endorsed by Spotify AB or Apple Inc. Product names are used only to describe what the software makes files for.