How long should a clip be for Shorts, Reels and TikTok?
Choose a clip length that fits the platform's current upload limit and carries one idea. Platforms change their limits, so check each platform's own help page on the day you upload. Then trim the clip to that length with VideoTrimming and download it as an MP4.
How long can a short clip be?
It depends on the platform, and the limits change. When we checked on 12 November 2026, third-party sources disagreed on some of them. That is why this page doesn't list numbers: a wrong number is worse than none. Check the platform's own help page on the day you upload.
Ready to try it? Open the trimmer and paste a link.
Where do I check the current limit?
| Platform | Where to look |
|---|---|
| YouTube Shorts | YouTube Help, in the section on Shorts |
| Instagram Reels | Instagram Help Centre, in the section on Reels |
| TikTok | TikTok Support, in the section on uploading videos |
How do I choose a length?
- One idea per clip. If the clip needs two explanations, make two clips.
- Start on the point. Cut the lead-in so the first second is the part people came for.
- End when the point ends. Don't hold on silence.
How do I trim to length?
Paste the link into VideoTrimming, set the start and end so the Length box shows the length you want, preview it, and download the MP4. Only use clips from videos you own or have permission to use: see when you are allowed to use a clip.
Questions
Can I make a clip longer than the platform allows?
You can make it, but the platform may reject or cut it. Check the limit first.
Does VideoTrimming resize the video for a platform?
No. It cuts a section out and saves it as an MP4. It doesn't crop or change the shape of the video.
Keep reading
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Three ways to share one part of a long video: a timestamp link, the platform's own clip tool, or a trimmed…
Read the guide Formats and qualityWhat is an MP4 file and why does it play almost everywhere?
An MP4 is a common video file format that holds video, audio and details in one file. What is inside, and how…
Read the guide Rights and permissionWhen are you allowed to use a clip from someone else's video?
General information on when you can use a clip from someone else's video: ownership, permission, licences and…
Read the guideHave a link ready?
Paste it, set the start and end, and keep only the part you need.
Open the trimmer