Instagram Image Sizes 2026: Posts, Stories, Reels & Ads (Updated Guide)
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
If you want sharp posts and clean layouts in the feed, Stories, Reels, and ads, you need the right file sizes. This guide to Instagram image sizes 2026 lists the exact dimensions and aspect ratios for every placement, including posts, Stories, Reels, and sponsored content.
Quick reference: exact Instagram images sizes 2026
Placement | Aspect ratio | Recommended pixels |
1:1, 4:5, 3:4 | 1080 × 1440 | |
1:1, 4:5, 3:4 | Match set | |
9:16 | 1080 × 1920 | |
9:16 | 1080 × 1920 | |
Profile photo | 1:1 | ≥ 320 × 320 |
1:1 or 4:5 | 1080 × 1080 / 1080 × 1350 | |
9:16 | 1080 × 1920 | |
prioritize 4:5 | 1080 × 1350 |
Instagram post and carousel sizes 2026
3:4 (1080×1440): newly supported; matches most phone camera defaults and reduces pre-upload cropping; also plays nicely with Instagram’s rectangle grid thumbnails.
Instagram Reels size 2026
Canvas: 1080×1920 (9:16) vertical video.
Safe zone: plan for UI overlays (likes, comments on the right; captions at bottom). Keep key elements in the central ~1080×1440 area to avoid cover-ups.
Instagram Story size 2026
Canvas: 1080×1920 (9:16).
Safe zone: keep vital text/logos in roughly 1080×1420 center (about 250 px clear at top and bottom). Device overlays (name bar, reply bar, icons) vary, so leave breathing room.
Instagram sponsored content size 2026
Single-image & Carrousels ads: prioritize 4:5; upload 1080×1350 or 1080×1080; for carousels, use the same ratio across all cards for consistent swipes.
Stories & Reels ads: 9:16 at 1080×1920; obey safe zones to keep CTAs visible.
Quality & export tips (fast wins)
Export at 1080-px width (or higher with careful compression) to avoid softening.
Prefer JPEG for photos, MP4 (H.264) for video; keep bitrates sensible for mobile delivery.
For carousels, lock one ratio across slides, don’t mix 1:1 and 4:5.
Check brand text size on a 5-6″ phone mockup, not just desktop.
FAQs: Instagram image sizes 2026
What is the best Instagram post size for reach and clarity?
Portrait 4:5 at 1080×1350 tends to maximize on-screen real estate in the feed. Square 1:1 remains a safe choice.
What are the Instagram Story dimensions in 2026 and where are the safe zones?
Stories use 1080×1920 at 9:16. Keep essential text and logos inside the central area to avoid UI overlays. Many creators allow roughly 250 px top and bottom and small side padding as a practical guide.
What are the Instagram Reels dimensions and safe areas?
Reels display at 1080×1920 (9:16). Keep copy and key graphics in the central zone so captions, icons, and buttons do not cover them.
Does Instagram support 3:4 photos now? What changes with the grid?
Yes. Instagram added 3:4 photo support in 2025, which reduces pre-upload cropping. This update arrived alongside a shift toward more vertical presentation in previews.
Can I promote a 3:4 post?
Promotion eligibility varies by placement. Meta and expert trackers recommend 4:5 or 1:1 for feed ads and boosted posts. If you plan to promote, export 4:5 (1080×1350) or 1:1 (1080×1080).
What size should I use for Instagram carousel posts?
Use the same aspect ratio across all slides for a seamless swipe. 1:1 or 4:5 are the most common choices.
What are the Instagram sponsored content sizes in 2026?
Feed ads (single images and carousels): 1:1 (1080×1080) or 4:5 (1080×1350). Stories and Reels ads: 9:16 at 1080×1920.
What is the Instagram profile picture size in 2026?
Upload at least 320×320 (1:1). Remember it displays as a circle, so center key elements.
Why do my Instagram images look blurry after upload?
Most issues come from wrong aspect ratios, excessive compression, or upscaling. Export at 1080-px width in an accepted ratio and avoid heavy recompression.
Should I mix ratios inside one carousel?
No. Mixing 1:1, 4:5, 3:4, and 1.91:1 in a single carousel can cause inconsistent crops and preview issues. Pick one ratio for the entire set.
What export settings help preserve quality?
Use sRGB color profile, high-quality JPEG or PNG for stills, and MP4 (H.264) for video. Keep width at 1080 px and match the aspect ratio to the placement.
What is the landscape size for posts in 2026?
Use the 1.91:1 ratio at roughly 1080×566 to 1080×608. Check readability on smaller screens.
