Twitter is a powerful networking tool, but there are limits to what you can do. In terms of uploading videos, the task comes with a set of technical rules that stem from the platform’s principle of sharing short-form content.
You can’t just record endless footage and share it as it is. So take a look at the rules below and keep them in mind next time you plan a visually rich tweet.
1. Twitter's Video File Size Limits
The maximum file size for videos on Twitter is 512MB. If the file you try to upload is bigger than that, Twitter will tell you to adjust it. You can either trim it on the app or make changes to the original video file.
If trimming really isn’t enough, there are several video compression methods for PC and mobile devices. This the most practical solution to your upload problem.
2. Twitter's Video Length Limit
Twitter has a maximum video length of two minutes and 20 seconds long. Once again, the app will let you trim a longer file as part of the upload process.
If you do have lots of footage to share with your followers, the best solution is to upload it in small snippets. Maybe, pick out the 2-minute highlights and turn them into weekly fun episodes.
3. Video Formats Supported on Twitter
The mobile app supports MP4 and MOV video files. A web-based upload, however, needs to be an MP4 in H264 format with AAC audio. This is the most common format for recording and distributing video content online.
If your file is the wrong type, explore the internet for helpful and free online file converters for all your needs. For video formatting, the likes of Online-Convert or FileZigZag are your best bet.
4. Video Resolution, Frame Rate, and Bitrate on Twitter
The minimum resolution you need when uploading videos on Twitter is 32x32. The maximum resolution is 1920x1200.
The frame rate should be no more than 40fps and the bitrate 25Mbps. While hardly lagging, the app’s capabilities will evolve further alongside digital technology.
5. No Embedded Tags and Descriptions on Twitter Videos
Unfortunately, unlike images, you can’t tag people or add descriptions to videos on Twitter. But don’t underestimate the other options available in a single tweet.
Simply describe the contents of the video in your message and tag any important names in there. Even though it takes up characters, you’re still able to make the most of videos on the platform this way.
6. Conditional Autoplay for Twitter Videos
Videos do automatically loop on Twitter, but only if they last 60 seconds or less. Another factor that affects this, however, is settings on someone's profile.
An interesting detail to keep in mind is that videos won’t autoplay in general if you enable Twitter’s data saver mode on mobile. To toggle this option, go to the Settings and privacy tab before clicking Data usage.
If you enable the Data saver setting, longer videos won’t autoplay or loop if someone doesn’t click on them. This isn’t an issue, unless you’re serious about building a strong presence on Twitter. And media going unnoticed isn’t ideal.
Essentially, eye-catching videos on a loop can boost a profile’s visual appeal. If you make a point of only uploading tiny snippets, your account will look a lot livelier and worth exploring.
7. Twitter Videos Don't Count As Characters
Finally, you don’t need to worry about the video itself taking up too much of your character count. Despite being typically larger than an image, Twitter also excludes it from a tweet’s total character count. Just choose your words carefully when including tags and descriptions, as discussed above.
For more information on how to use videos on Twitter for maximum effect, look through Twitter’s online help center.
Plan Your Video Uploads Wisely
Considering how big Twitter is, it’s not surprising that some boundaries are in place. This doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t get the job done. You just need to get creative with whatever tools you do have access to.
Remember these rules when creating, adjusting, and uploading your videos on Twitter, whether on a smartphone or computer. They matter in terms of smooth user experience and your profile’s success.
