- The 1:1 aspect ratio is optimal for Facebook Feed ads, maximizing visibility across desktop and mobile devices.
- Facebook Stories ads benefit from 4:5 or 9:16 aspect ratios, which utilize vertical screen space effectively.
- Facebook In-Stream ads should use the 16:9 landscape format for seamless integration with longer videos.
- Proper video ad specs include maintaining high resolutions, appropriate file sizes, and ideal video lengths for each placement.
- Optimizing video dimensions improves ad performance, enhances user experience, and increases engagement.
- Tools like Foreplay simplify competitor analysis and help refine Facebook video ad strategies.
Over ten million advertisers use Facebook for marketing purposes, targeting the over three billion monthly users. Video is a highly effective advertisement format, but having some bright visuals alone may not be enough to outpace the competition.
The right dimensions matter when creating video ads for Facebook that drive results. Your chosen dimensions impact your ad's appearance and performance across different placements.
Optimizing your video dimensions leads to better ad delivery, increased engagement, and overall campaign performance. This guide on the best video dimensions for Facebook ads will provide you with specifics about Facebook ads video size based on their placement.
We’ll also provide you with a general overview of the best specs for Facebook video ads. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the best dimensions for Facebook video ads, starting with the aspect ratio and display size.
What are the best video dimensions for Facebook ads?
The best video dimensions for Facebook ads depend on the specific placement you're targeting, including Feed, Stories, and In-Stream ads. Here are the recommended aspect ratios for each of these common ad placements:
1:1 aspect ratio for Facebook Feed ads
When creating video ads for the Facebook Feed, the 1:1 aspect ratio (a perfect square) is widely regarded as the optimal format. This is because it is versatile and performs well across desktop and mobile platforms.
On mobile devices, where the majority of users access Facebook, a square video takes up significantly more vertical screen space than a landscape video. This increased screen real estate helps capture attention and makes your ad more noticeable as users scroll through their Feed.
In addition to maximizing visibility, a 1:1 aspect ratio provides a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout that adapts seamlessly to different placements, ensuring that your content is displayed without awkward cropping or resizing.
The recommended resolution for 1:1 video ads is at least 1080x1080 pixels to achieve the best quality and maintain a professional appearance.
This ensures your video looks crisp and clear, even on high-resolution devices, enhancing the overall viewer experience and increasing the likelihood of engagement. Pairing the right aspect ratio with engaging content and eye-catching visuals can help boost the effectiveness of your ads.
The video ad for electroplated leather phone cases below perfectly illustrates this, as it features a square aspect ratio, allowing maximum exposure on mobile and desktop devices.
This is combined with sound Facebook video advertising principles, such as using bright and eye-catching visuals, showcasing the product’s benefits, and engaging the user with a catchy tune.
4:5 aspect ratio for Facebook Stories ads
For Facebook Stories video ads, the 4:5 aspect ratio (a vertical format slightly shorter than the full-screen 9:16 format) is an excellent choice for creating engaging and immersive content. Some may also choose the 9:16 format, although 4:5 is generally preferred.
This format takes advantage of the vertical orientation that mobile users naturally interact with, ensuring your ad captures attention without requiring users to rotate their devices.
The 4:5 aspect ratio fills most of the screen while leaving a small margin at the top and bottom. This creates a clean and focused presentation for your ad content, making it ideal for showcasing product details, delivering key messages, or driving specific calls to action.
The vertical layout perfectly matches mobile users' natural swiping and tapping motions, enhancing the overall user experience.
To ensure your ad looks polished and professional, use a resolution of 1080x1350 pixels or higher. Higher resolution maintains image clarity and accommodates Facebook’s compression standards, preventing your ad from appearing pixelated or distorted.
Compelling visuals, bold text overlays, and a clear call to action can increase the ad’s effectiveness, driving engagement and conversions in this immersive ad format.
The video ad for Johnnie Walker displayed below is an excellent example of this. It takes advantage of this slightly vertical format to bring its visuals to the forefront while being ideal for mobile formats.
16:9 aspect ratio for Facebook In-Stream ads
Facebook In-Stream ads are designed to appear within longer videos, allowing viewers to engage in a format they are already watching. The 16:9 aspect ratio (a widescreen, landscape format) is recommended for this placement. This ratio matches the dimensions of most horizontal video content, ensuring your ad blends naturally into the viewing experience.
The 16:9 format is particularly effective because it complements the host video's aspect ratio, reducing the likelihood of interruptions or mismatched framing. This helps maintain viewer attention, as the transition to your ad feels smooth and integrated.
Aim for a resolution of at least 1280x720 pixels (HD) to deliver high-quality visuals. Higher resolutions, such as 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD), can further enhance the clarity and professionalism of your ad, especially on larger screens.
When creating content for this format, focus on delivering your key message early, as In-Stream ads often run for a limited time before viewers can skip them. Pairing eye-catching visuals, concise messaging, and a strong call to action can significantly improve the effectiveness of your In-Stream ads.
The video ad for The Garden Design Co., seen below, illustrates these concepts. It features a 16:9 aspect ratio combined with crisp resolution and a message delivered within the first few seconds. This ad also uses social proof, as it features a satisfied customer detailing their experiences with the company.
Use Foreplay to discover millions of video ads to use as inspiration for your creative campaign.
Now that we know what the best dimensions for Facebook video ads are, let’s take a closer look at the best Facebook video ad specs according to placement.
Facebook video ad specs for different placements
Creating the best video ads for Facebook involves more than just the size and aspect ratio. Other specs to pay attention to include file size and video length.
Here's a breakdown of the video ad specs you need to know for each Facebook ad placement, including Feed, Stories, In-Stream, Marketplace, and Reels:
Facebook Feed video ad specs
Here’s a breakdown of the ideal specs for Facebook Feed video ads:
- Display size: 1080px x 1080px (desktop or mobile) or 1080px x 1350px (mobile only)
- Aspect ratio: 1:1 for desktop or mobile, or 4:5 for mobile only
- File type: MP4, MOV, GIF
- Maximum file size: 4GB
- Video length: 1 second to 241 minutes
The Mystere video ad below features a high-resolution video with a 1:1 aspect ratio, which allows it to perform well on both mobile and desktop devices.
This is paired with a relatively short 14-second duration, enough to display the product without boring the viewer. Combined with fast-paced music and luxurious visuals, this ad for wristwatches is ideal for driving clicks.
Facebook Stories video ad specs
Here’s what you need to know about the best specs for Facebook Stories video ads:
- Display size: 1080px x 1920px, or larger
- Aspect ratio: 4:5 or 9:16
- File type: MP4 or MOV
- Maximum file size: 4GB
- Video length: Up to 2 minutes, though only the first 10 seconds will play unless the user taps to continue watching
The 9:16 aspect ratio of the Sundae Studios video ad seen here works very well for mobile viewing, and its display size means that it should allow proper viewing on all devices. This video ad effectively conveys its message by using social proof, visuals of the product, and an upbeat tone.
Pro Tip: Keep approximately 14% (250 pixels) of the top and bottom of your Stories ad-free from text and logos to avoid covering the profile icon or call to action.
Facebook In-Stream video ad specs
Here’s what you need to know about creating In-Stream video ads for Facebook.
- Display size: 1080px x 1080px recommended, or larger
- Aspect ratio: 16:9 or 1:1
- File type: MP4 or MOV
- Maximum file size: 4GB
- Video length: 5-15 seconds
The In-Stream ad for Torras Global below features an aspect ratio of 16:9, allowing it to blend well with existing horizontal video content. By keeping the duration to just three seconds and using clear but simple visuals, it effectively conveys its message in a very short amount of time.
Facebook Marketplace video ad specs
Here’s what you need to know about Facebook Marketplace video ad specs:
- Display size: 1080px x 1080px or larger
- Aspect ratio: 1:1
- File type: MP4, MOV or GIF
- Maximum file size: 4GB
- Video length: 1 second to 241 minutes
The Marketplace ad seen here is only six seconds long, but it uses bright visuals combined with captivating text to engage the user. The phrase “Better choices for better living” immediately draws in the viewer.
Facebook Reels video ad specs
Here’s what you need to know about the Facebook Reels video ads in terms of their specs:
- Display size: 1080px x 1920px, or larger
- Aspect ratio: 9:16
- File type: MP4 or MOV
- Maximum file size: 4GB
- Video length: 4-90 seconds
This Reels ad for Finelli is just 11 seconds long, long enough to get the message across without being so long as to lose the viewer’s attention. Moreover, by combining quick-cut visuals, fast-paced music, and models showcasing the clothing in action, this ad effectively engages its target audience.
Now that we know what the specs and dimensions of your Facebook video ads should be, let’s discuss why having the right dimensions is so important.
Benefits of optimizing video dimensions for Facebook ads
Optimizing your video dimensions for Facebook ads offers several key benefits that can significantly improve your campaign results. These include improving ad performance, enhancing the user experience, and increasing conversations.
Here’s why optimizing your Facebook video ad specs is essential.
Improved ad performance
When you use the recommended video dimensions for each Facebook ad placement, your ads are more likely to be displayed properly across devices.
This means your message reaches your target audience as intended, without any awkward cropping or distortion.
Ads with optimized dimensions tend to have higher delivery rates as they adhere to Facebook's best practices. This can lead to lower costs and better overall ad performance.
Enhanced user experience
Videos that fit seamlessly into their designated ad placements create a more enjoyable browsing experience for users. They blend naturally with the surrounding content, making users more receptive to your message.
Using the right dimensions ensures your videos look professional and high-quality, building trust and credibility with your audience.
Increased engagement and conversions
Optimized video dimensions capture attention and encourage users to engage with your ads. For example, square videos in the Facebook Feed take up 78% more screen space than landscape videos on mobile devices. This increased visibility can lead to higher view rates, clicks, and conversions.
Similarly, vertical videos in Facebook Stories and Reels create an immersive full-screen experience that engages users. This format can drive significant results for your business when combined with compelling content.
Ultimately, optimizing your video dimensions pays off in better ad performance, happier users, and a stronger return on your Facebook advertising investment.
How to create Facebook video ads with the right dimensions
Creating Facebook video ads with the right dimensions involves a few key steps to ensure your ads look great and perform well across placements. These include choosing the right aspect ratio and resolution, optimizing video length, adding captions and sound, and then testing for performance.
Here’s how to create Facebook video ads with the right dimensions:
- Choose the right aspect ratio: Based on your ad placement, select the appropriate aspect ratio. Use a square 1:1 ratio for Facebook Feed ads, a vertical 4:5 ratio for Stories ads, and a landscape 16:9 ratio for In-Stream ads.
- Ensure high-quality resolution: Maintain high resolution to meet the recommended specs for each placement. Aim for at least 1080x1080 pixels for square videos, 1080x1350 pixels for vertical videos, and 1280x720 pixels for landscape videos to ensure your videos look sharp and professional.
- Optimize video length: Tailor your video length to the ideal duration for each placement. Shorter videos often perform better for Facebook Feed ads, while Stories ads should be 2 minutes or less, with the first 10 seconds being critical. In-Stream ads are most effective when kept to 5-15 seconds.
- Add captions and sound: Enhance your videos with sound but make them engaging even without it, as many users browse with their sound off. Include captions or text overlays to ensure your message is clear. For Stories and Reels, place captions in the main part of the screen, avoiding the top and bottom.
- Test and analyze performance: Monitor ad performance using Facebook’s metrics on views, engagement, and conversions. Run A/B tests to evaluate different aspect ratios, lengths, or creative elements. Use the data to refine and optimize your video ads over time for maximum effectiveness.
With the process of creating optimized Facebook video ads covered, let’s review some essential tips for making the most out of every ad.
Five tips for creating engaging Facebook video ads
You can create highly engaging Facebook video ads by quickly grabbing the viewer's attention, telling a compelling story, and using eye-catching visuals.
Here’s how to make sure that your Facebook video ads stand out from the pack:
Grab attention in the first few seconds
The first few seconds of your Facebook video ad are critical for capturing your audience's attention.
Start with a strong visual or an intriguing question to draw viewers in and make them want to keep watching. Consider using fast-paced editing, bold colors, or surprising imagery to stand out in the Facebook Feed.
The video ad for Nexgen Australia does this perfectly by starting with quick-cut visuals and narration that says, “Small business owners are making the smart switch,” thus immediately grabbing attention.
Tell a compelling story
After capturing your audience's attention, storytelling becomes your most powerful tool for building an emotional connection with your brand.
Craft a narrative that highlights a relatable problem or challenge your audience might face, and demonstrate how your product or service provides the ideal solution. The key is to make the story resonate with your viewers' experiences and needs, drawing them in on a personal level.
Use a clear and structured narrative arc with a captivating beginning to set the scene, a middle that builds tension or explores the challenge, and a satisfying end that showcases the resolution.
This approach keeps viewers engaged and makes your message more memorable, leaving a lasting impression that aligns your brand with positive emotions and impactful solutions.
Use eye-catching visuals
Compelling visuals are key to creating a successful Facebook video ad. Use high-quality images and footage that showcase your product or service in the best light. Although many prefer real images, animated Facebook ads are also highly effective.
This video ad for a desk mat uses visuals perfectly, using extremely bright and high-contrast images to catch the viewer’s eye. Moreover, the desk mat itself features a very visually stimulating design: a racecar, something that is sure to intrigue the viewer.
Include a clear call-to-action
Every Facebook video ad should serve a specific purpose and encourage viewers to take action. Include a prominent call-to-action (CTA) button or message that clearly communicates the next step: visiting your website, making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or downloading an app.
Ensure your CTA is aligned with your video’s message and campaign goals, seamlessly guiding viewers toward the intended outcome. A well-placed, compelling CTA can significantly boost engagement and conversions by removing any ambiguity about what to do next.
Optimize for mobile viewing
Since most Facebook users access the platform on mobile devices, tailoring your video ads for mobile viewing is essential. Use square or vertical aspect ratios (such as 1:1 or 4:5) to maximize smartphone screen space, capturing more attention as users scroll.
Include captions or text overlays to make your videos engaging and accessible, even for viewers watching without sound.
Keep your messaging concise and visually clear so it’s easy for mobile users to understand your ad at a glance. A mobile-friendly design ensures a smoother, more impactful user experience.
Before wrapping things up, let’s examine how you can analyze the competition's video ads.
How to analyze competitor Facebook ads for video dimension insights using Foreplay
Analyzing your competitors' Facebook ads provides valuable insights into their video marketing strategies, including the dimensions they use for different placements.
Facebook's Ad Library is a powerful tool for researching competitor ads. It allows you to view active and inactive ads from any Facebook page, even if you don't follow that page.
However, to make the research process easier, use Foreplay’s Discovery tool, which provides you with access to over ten million curated ads that you can use for inspiration.
You can then save all of your favorites in one easy place using the Swipe File feature. Then, using the Spyder Ad Spy tool, you can analyze the competitors and their video ads in depth.
Final thoughts on the best Facebook ads video size and specs
Choosing the best video dimensions for Facebook ads is critical to ensuring your campaigns perform at their peak. Each placement on Facebook, whether it’s Feed, Stories, or In-Stream, has specific dimension requirements to maximize visibility and engagement.
By tailoring your ads to these recommendations, you enhance the user experience, maintain high-quality visuals, and drive better engagement and conversions.
Complementing optimal dimensions with compelling storytelling, eye-catching visuals, and clear calls to action is also essential. Tools like Foreplay streamline the process of designing, analyzing, and perfecting Facebook video ads, helping you stay competitive and efficient.
Incorporating these strategies into your advertising efforts ensures your ads resonate with your audience and deliver measurable results. Understanding and applying the best practices for Facebook video ad dimensions is crucial to creating impactful campaigns that stand out and achieve your marketing goals.
Use Foreplay to find the inspiration you need to create effective Facebook video ads.
Frequently asked questions
How do I decide which video dimensions to use for my Facebook ads?
Choose your dimensions based on the ad placement. For example, use 1:1 for Feed ads, 4:5 or 9:16 for Stories, and 16:9 for In-Stream ads. The goal is to ensure your ad fits naturally into the user's experience.
What is the best way to test the performance of different video dimensions?
Run A/B tests by creating multiple versions of your ad with different dimensions. Monitor engagement metrics like click-through rates, view duration, and conversions to identify which performs best.
Can I use the same video for multiple Facebook ad placements?
While you can, it’s better to optimize videos for each placement. Adjusting aspect ratios and resolutions ensures your ads look professional and perform well across different devices.
What role does resolution play in Facebook video ads?
High resolution ensures clarity and professionalism. Use at least 1080x1080 pixels for square videos, 1080x1350 for vertical videos, and 1280x720 for landscape videos to avoid pixelation or distortion.
How important is sound in Facebook video ads?
While sound enhances engagement, many users watch videos without it. Add captions or text overlays to convey your message effectively, ensuring your ad remains impactful even in silent viewing.
What tools can help with Facebook ad creation and competitor analysis?
Tools like Foreplay’s Discovery and Spyder Ad Spy features provide access to curated ads and competitor insights. These tools streamline ad creation and refinement, helping you stay ahead of the competition.
