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Being new to creating content, figuring out the perfect length for Instagram Reels can be difficult even if you know the ideal duration but your analytics might reveal a different story. The thing is, video length is not just about following Instagram rules but also about maximizing engagement and making sure people actually watch your content.

When I first started creating Reels. I thought “The longer the better” but after posting a few minutes long videos I noticed my views were dropping. Turns out keeping things short and snappy works much better! 

Instagram Reel is the best way to grab attention and engage your audience. So, how long can Instagram Reels actually be? And more importantly how long should they be for the best engagement? Continue reading to grab the best answers to these queries.

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How Long Can Instagram Reels Be?

Instagram expanded its Reel length multiple times since launching in 2020. Initially they were limited to just 15 seconds but Instagram quickly realized that creators needed more time to tell their stories as Instagram Head Adam Mosserri told in a video . Today you can create Reels that are up to 90 seconds long whether you record them directly in the app or upload pre-edited clips.

Just because you can make a 90-second Reel does not always mean you should. Shorter videos often perform better because they cater t o people with short attention spans. Most users scroll through their feeds quickly so if your video does not hook them in the first few seconds they will move on.

Take the example of food vloggers, how they use Reels. Many of them condense entire recipes into 30 second clips showing only the most important steps. These snappy, engaging videos often go viral proving that brevity is key when it comes to Instagram content.

Can You Upload Longer Instagram Reels?

If we see technically, Instagram caps Reels at 90 seconds but there are a few ways to work around this limitation. 

• One method is breaking your video into Multiple Reels and posting them as a Series. This strategy works well for storytelling or multi step tutorials. 

• Another option is using Instagram Carousel Feature (which we will discuss later) to post longer videos in parts.

Creators also take advantage of Instagram Feed Videos which allow uploads of up to 60 minutes, probably an hour long. While these are not technically Reels but they can still serve the same purpose especially if your content needs more time. 

%uD83D%uDCA1 Keep in mind that Reels generally perform better because they are favored by the Instagram algorithm.

We have personally tested both Short & Long Reels and the difference in engagement is clear. Short punchy videos tend to get more Instagram Likes and Shares while longer videos work best for audiences who are already invested in your content. If you are hoping to attract new followers, keeping your videos short and engaging is the way to go.

How Long Should an Instagram Reel Be for Best Engagement?

If you want your Reels to perform well, length matters. Studies and social media experts suggest that the best performing Reels are between 7 to 15 seconds long. Why? Because people tend to scroll past anything that feels too long or slow paced.

Do you remember when was the last time you watched a full 90 second Reel without skipping? Unless it was incredibly engaging, right? The first 3 seconds are the most crucial so your hook needs to be strong. Start with an attention grabbing moment whether it's a bold statement, an exciting visual or a relatable question.

You have watched fitness influencers on Instagram. Most of them create quick, high energy workout clips in under 15 seconds. They cut out unnecessary fluff and jump straight into action keeping viewers hooked.

How Long Can Instagram Carousels Be?

Instagram carousels allow you to post up to 10 slides and each slide can contain either images or videos. Using videos, each clip can be up to 60 seconds long meaning a carousel post could technically hold up to 10 minutes of video content.

Carousels work best for step by step tutorials, educational content or storytelling. Unlike Reels they allow users to swipe through at their own pace making them ideal for content that does not need to be fast paced. Many brands use carousels to showcase products behind the scenes footage or longform storytelling.

Look at skincare brands who might post a “Before & After transformation” in a carousel format allowing users to swipe through the process. While Reels are great for quick engagement, carousels are better for in-depth content.

Instagram Reels vs. TikTok vs. YouTube Shorts

When it comes to short form video, Instagram is not the only player in the game. TikTok and YouTube Shorts also dominate the space but they have different length limits:

• Instagram Reels: Up to 90 seconds.

• TikTok: Up to 10 minutes but shorter videos perform better.

• YouTube Shorts: Up to 60 seconds.

While TikTok allows much longer videos, the most viral content is still under 30 seconds. YouTube Shorts on the other hand enforces a strict 60 second limit making it similar to Instagram Reels.

If you create content for multiple platforms, repurposing videos is a smart strategy. Suppose you can film a 60 second video and post it across Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts and TikTok without needing extra edits. This saves time while maximizing your reach.

Refining Your Short Form Video Strategy

Understanding video length is just one part of the equation. To truly optimize your Reels focus on:

• Hooking viewers in the first 3 seconds.

• Keeping videos under 15 seconds for higher engagement.

• Experimenting with different lengths to see what works for your audience.

• Analyzing your analytics to track performance and improve over time.

I once tested posting a 10 second Reel vs. a 45 second Reel with similar content. The 10 second version got twice the engagement because it was fast and easy to watch. The key takeaway? Test different approaches and find what resonates with your audience.

Finally, you know how long Instagram Reels can be. The real question is how will you use this knowledge? While Instagram allows up to 90 seconds shorter videos often perform better. Whether you are a brand influencer or casual creator, understanding the ideal video length can help you to Get Instagram Likes UK and boost engagement.

So, what is your ideal Reel length? Experiment, analyze and refine your content strategy to make the most of Instagram powerful short form video format!