TikTok’s meteoric rise has made it a must-have channel for brands, creators, and agencies. But with new features, evolving algorithms, and higher audience expectations, nailing the right video size and format is more critical than ever. In 2026, TikTok is rewarding creators who deliver crisp, high-resolution content that fits perfectly on mobile screens. If your videos aren’t optimized, you risk poor engagement, awkward cropping, and missed opportunities.
This guide breaks down the latest TikTok video specs, best practices, and workflow tips—so you can create scroll-stopping content and leverage Sked Social’s platform to streamline your TikTok strategy.
The gold standard for TikTok video size in 2026 is 1080 x 1920 pixels with a 9:16 aspect ratio. This vertical format fills the entire mobile screen, ensuring your content looks professional and immersive.
Key specs:
Why it matters: Videos that don’t match the 9:16 ratio may be cropped or display black bars, reducing impact and engagement. Always preview your content before posting—Sked Social’s visual planner makes this easy.
Example: A fashion brand uses 1080 x 1920 px videos to showcase new arrivals, ensuring every detail pops on mobile and nothing gets cut off.
TikTok’s algorithm favors content that keeps viewers watching and rewatching. Here’s what works best in 2026:
Pro tip: Start with a strong hook in the first 2 seconds. Use dynamic visuals, quick cuts, and on-screen text to maintain attention. Sked Social’s AI Tools can help you generate engaging captions and scripts tailored to your audience.
Example: An agency creates a 15-second “before and after” transformation video, maximizing replay value and shares.
To ensure smooth uploads and playback, follow these technical requirements:
Sked Social workflow tip: Use the TikTok auto-publishing feature to schedule videos in advance, ensuring you never miss peak engagement times.
Example: A restaurant group schedules a week’s worth of TikTok videos, each under 60 seconds and under 1GB, using Sked’s bulk upload and auto-publish tools.
High-resolution, visually striking videos perform best on TikTok. Here’s how to optimize:
Sked Social advantage: The built-in Media Library & Editor lets you crop, resize, and enhance videos before scheduling. Use the visual calendar to preview your feed and ensure a cohesive look.
Example: A real estate agency uses Sked’s editor to add branded overlays and captions, making property tours more engaging and accessible.
Carousels:
Stories:
Profile image:
Sked Social tip: Use the Media Library to organize and tag assets for quick access when building carousels or updating your profile.
Your new all-in-one workspace where brainstorms actually turn into content. Capture ideas when they hit, work with your team, fill the gaps in your calendar, and let AI handle the heavy lifting—from concept to publish. Get early access today.
Get Early Access!Running TikTok ads in 2026? Getting your video size and format right is non-negotiable if you want to maximize ad performance, avoid costly rejections, and ensure your creative looks flawless on every device. TikTok’s ad platform is more robust than ever, supporting a range of formats—from In-Feed and TopView to Spark Ads and carousels—but the fundamentals of video size remain consistent.
For all TikTok ad placements in 2026, follow these specs:
Ad-specific tips:
TikTok’s algorithm and ad review process are strict about video specs. If your ad doesn’t meet the 9:16, 1080 x 1920 px standard, it may be cropped, display with black bars, or even be rejected. This can tank your click-through rates and waste your ad budget.
2026 is the year of AI-powered content optimization. TikTok is rolling out more incentives for educational and longer-form content, and AI tools are making it easier to edit, pace, and optimize videos.
How Sked Social helps:
Example: A healthcare brand uses Sked’s analytics to identify that 30-second explainer videos drive the most engagement, then uses AI tools to generate new content ideas in that format.
Challenge: Videos look blurry or get cropped
Solution: Always use 1080 x 1920 px, 9:16 aspect ratio, and center key content. Use Sked’s visual planner to preview.
Challenge: Low engagement on longer videos
Solution: Hook viewers in the first 2 seconds, keep content dynamic, and use analytics to find your optimal length.
Challenge: Managing multiple TikTok accounts or team approvals
Solution: Sked Social’s Collaboration and Approvals features streamline teamwork and keep your workflow organized.
What is the best TikTok video size for 2026?
1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio) is the standard for all TikTok videos.
What file formats does TikTok support?
MP4 and MOV are recommended for best quality and compatibility.
What’s the maximum file size for TikTok videos?
Up to 1GB for auto-publishing and ads.
How long should my TikTok videos be?
11–18 seconds for virality, 21–34 seconds for storytelling, 30–60 seconds for educational content, up to 3 minutes for deep dives.
How do I optimize my TikTok videos for clarity?
Shoot in HD, use good lighting, center key content, and preview before posting.
Staying ahead on TikTok in 2026 means more than just knowing the right video size. You need a workflow that’s fast, flexible, and data-driven. Sked Social empowers you to:
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