Instagram reels have become one of the most popular ways for creators to share content and engage with their audience on Instagram. With reels, you can create fun and engaging 15 to 60-second multi-clip videos that are set to audio and can be easily edited with creative tools. But one of the most common questions is – What is the best Instagram reel length to maximize views and engagement?

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Instagram Reel Length limits, best practices for different types of content, and how to optimize for more views and engagement.

What is Instagram reel length?

Instagram reels can be 15 seconds to 60 seconds long. The previous limit was 15 to 30 seconds, but it was expanded to 60 seconds in 2021.

This allowed creators to share more content in a single reel. Some ways the longer Length is beneficial:

• Showcase more products, services, or tutorials in detail
• Use fuller song segments for more impact
• Share more complete stories or testimonials
• Include behind-the-scenes clips or bloopers
• Add multiple scenes, locations, or camera angles
• Insert additional text, graphics, effects, and edits

But longer doesn’t always mean better. The ideal length depends on your specific goals and content style. Using the full 60 seconds strategically is key.

What is the Instagram reels time limit in 2023?

The video length on the Instagram limit was increased from the previous 30-second maximum in 2021. Having a longer maximum length allows creators to tell more captivating stories, use songs more fully, and better highlight compelling content.

When determining the ideal Instagram reels time limit for your reels, it’s important to keep in mind that the current Instagram algorithm tends to favor videos that are at least 30 seconds long. Reels that are shorter than 30 seconds may not perform as well unless the content is exceptionally captivating.

At the same time, stretching reels out to the full 60 seconds isn’t always necessary – shorter, more concise videos around 30 to 45 seconds often see strong engagement.

Ultimately there are no strict rules, but using the full 30 to 60-second Instagram reel length when you have great content to fill it, while keeping videos tight and focused, is generally the best practice.

How do top businesses use 60-second Instagram reels?

Many top brands are taking advantage of the expanded 60-second length for Instagram reels to increase visibility and engagement. For example:

• Retail brands use the additional time to showcase more detailed product demos, unboxings, and tutorials – providing helpful content for potential customers.
• Food brands utilize the full 60 seconds to film more elaborate cooking and recipe content. The extra time allows them to include multiple steps involved in preparing dishes.
• Travel brands use the length to take viewers along on more immersive virtual vacations and highlight additional sights and activities from destinations. The longer videos help spark deeper wanderlust.
• Media/entertainment brands create extended reels featuring behind-the-scenes clips, bloopers, sneak peeks, and other exclusive footage to attract bigger fandoms.

No matter the niche, some best practices for taking advantage of 60 second reels include: planning content to utilize the full time, maximizing video quality, strategically placing hooks early to retain viewer attention, splitting single stories into multi-part reels, and experimenting with start/stop editing techniques, this will also help in increasing your Instagram story views.

Do you also think Why are my Instagram views so low? Find the solution to your issue in our most recent guide!

Why does Instagram Reel length matter?

Instagram reel length matters because it impacts performance. Key factors include:

• Viewer retention – Longer reels can lose viewer attention causing a drop-off. The ideal length keeps viewers watching.
• Discovery in feeds – If viewers watch a reel completely, the IG algorithm amplifies it more. Higher retained views signal relevancy.
• Engagement – When people watch more of a reel, they’re more likely to like, comment, and share – activating Instagram’s algorithm.
• Brand awareness – Longer view times increase brand visibility and storytelling capability.
• Ad monetization – Accounts can only monetize reels with high retention metrics. The ideal Instagram video length keeps people watching.

Optimizing reel length for your content style and audience helps maximize these performance factors, That is why how long are Instagram reels really matters.

What’s the perfect Instagram video length for views?

While Instagram hasn’t shared definitive data on the ideal IG reel length for getting the most views, there are some useful rules of thumb:

• 30-45 seconds tends to be a sweet spot for maximizing views and holding viewer attention according to many digital marketing experts. Reels less than 30 seconds often see fewer views unless the content goes viral. And viewer drop-off increases significantly beyond 45 seconds.
• Videos focused on tips, tricks, and tutorials tend to perform best around 30 seconds as this provides enough time to clearly explain or demonstrate something helpful without losing viewer interest. Quicker how-to content can be covered in 15-30 seconds Instagram video length.
• Storytelling and testimonial reels often benefit from the full 60 seconds as this provides time to share a compelling narrative or make an emotional connection with the audience.
• Comedic and meme reels are better suited for 15-30 second runtimes. The shorter length allows the humor to be delivered quickly and punchily before it loses impact.
• Product promotion reels typically gain more traction in the 30-45 second range, adequately highlighting features and visuals without excessive detail.

No matter what you’re creating, keeping reels short, well-paced, and visually captivating is key. Pay close attention to which lengths drive more impressions and engagement for your brand, and optimize based on real data. It often comes down to trial and error.

How can 60-second Instagram reels be effectively used?

Here are some top tips for taking full advantage of the 60-second length available for Instagram reels:

• Plan content ahead of time. Don’t just wing it. Write a loose script or outline so you have a content flow in mind before filming. Identify key story beats and visuals.
• Use cuts, edits, effects, and text to keep things moving and visually captivating from start to finish. Quick cuts between clips and strategic fading or transitions between scenes help maintain interest.
• Leverage high-quality video. With a longer runtime, high-resolution video that looks polished on the Instagram feed is a must. Use camera stabilizers, tripods, optimal lighting, and deliberate framing to make reels pop.
• Highlight multiple products/services. Showcase broader offerings or put together complimentary products. Give viewers more reasons to follow your brand.
• Split stories into multi-part reels. If you have an exceptionally compelling narrative or tutorial, break it into a series of 30-60 second reels to capture continuing attention while providing useful content.
• Collaborate with influencers. Have influencers in your niche use the full 60 seconds to publish collaborative/sponsored reels showcasing your brand in engaging ways.
• Include a strong IG call to action. Use end cards or strategic text prompts throughout the reel to drive clicks, traffic, conversions, and sales.

Follow these tips to maximize the impact of your next 60 second reel. But also know when shorter run times are more effective if you don’t have enough captivating content for the full length. Quality over quantity wins out.

Also Read – 10 Strategies for Increasing Instagram Story Views in 2023

What is the ideal IG reel length for different content types?

While the 60-second maximum provides a lot of creative flexibility, crafting reels based on these ideal Instagram reel length recommendations can help increase performance:

• Product showcases 30-45 seconds, giving enough time to highlight key features and visuals without excessive detail.
• Tutorials/how-tos: 30 seconds, concise and informative without losing viewer interest. Can go up to 60 seconds for in-depth tutorials.
• Cooking demonstrations: 45-60 seconds, allowing time to include ingredients and multiple recipe steps from start to finish.
• Storytelling: 60 seconds, provides sufficient time to share a compelling brand story or testimony that connects emotionally.
• Behind the scenes: 30-60 seconds, gives the flexibility to feature longer clips of exclusive/bonus footage from sets, events, etc.
• Sneak peeks/teasers: 15-30 seconds, shares just enough of a preview to get viewers excited about upcoming content.
• Call to action: In 15-30 seconds, quickly communicate a promotional deal, discount, or other incentive.
• User-generated content: 15-30 seconds, highlights authentic customer experiences without dragging on too long.
• Memes: 15-30 seconds, delivers the humor concisely before it gets stale.

Tailoring IG reel length based on the specific type of content ensures you’re keeping viewers engaged from start to finish. But don’t be afraid to experiment and find what resonates best with your audience.

Best practices for ideal Instagram reel length

To summarize, here are some best practices for determining ideal Instagram reel length:

• Shoot for 30-45 second reels when possible, this tends to be the overall sweet spot.
• Use the full 60 seconds for exceptionally compelling content like visual stories and tutorials.
• Keep how-tos, cooking tips, and comedic reels concise in the 15-30 second range.
• Tailor reels videos length based on your specific content type for maximum impact.
• Engage viewers quickly within the first 5 seconds with a hook.
• Place the most captivating scenes and visuals in the first 15 seconds before drop-off happens.
• Use strong editing, effects, graphics, and text to retain interest from start to finish.
• Analyze performance data to see which lengths drive the most engagement for your audience.
• Shorter isn’t always better – give your content room to breathe when the full runtime adds value.

By keeping these tips in mind as you’re planning and editing your reels, you can make the most of Instagram’s time limits. Remember that high-quality, visually compelling content will always be the priority, no matter what length you choose, this will also lead to more Instagram impressions on your reel. Make strategic use of available runtime and focus on providing real value to your audience.

Know how to adjust the length of your reels-:

Step 1: Open the Instagram app.

Step 2: At the bottom of the interface, tap the Reels symbol.

Step 3: Tap the camera icon in the top-right of the screen.

Step 4: On the left side of the screen, you’ll see an icon with the number “30” in it.

Step 5: To change the length of your Reels, tap the icon.

What’s the best Instagram Reel length for reach and engagement?

While there’s no universally perfect Instagram video length, these tips can help maximize Instagram Reel likes and reach:

• 30-45 seconds tends to be the overall sweet spot according to most digital marketing data. 
• 60-second reels allow you to showcase more content but only utilize the full length when warranted.
• 15-30 seconds works well for concise how-tos, comedic memes, and teasers.
• Match reel length to audio tracks and content type for a smooth experience.
• Analyze metrics to see which lengths perform best for your followers.
• Hook viewers immediately then place captivating visuals in the first 15 seconds before drop-off.
• Use strong editing, graphics, text, and transitions to retain attention through the end.
• Engage viewers by splitting stories into multi-part reels to maintain interest.

Testing different lengths while keeping content compelling and well-paced is key, also try to understand the best time to post reels on Instagram will also help you. There are no rigid rules – your audience insights should guide what length works for your brand.

Helpful Reading – Reach vs Impressions: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters?

Why does Instagram have to shift to video over images?

Over the past few years, Instagram has increasingly focused on video content rather than static photos. There are a few key reasons why:

• Changing user behavior – People increasingly expect video content on social media. Video generates 12x more shares than images and text combined. Instagram had to adapt to this shift in consumption preferences.
• More immersive storytelling – Video allows brands to tell richer, more vivid stories. Motion, music, voiceovers, text, and effects create more engaging experiences.
• Standing out in the IG feed – With so much competition, video content tends to grab more attention as users scroll. High-quality reels also keep users on the platform longer.
• Advertising capabilities – Video ads generate much higher click-through rates. More video inventory allows Instagram to increase monetization through advertising.
• Data advantages – Instagram can gain more insights into users’ interests based on how long they watch reels, what they engage with, etc. This data improves algorithms.

The shift to video provides advantages across the board – for users, creators, and Instagram itself. Short-form vertical video delivered through reels leverages new technologies and consumption habits.

Conclusion

Determining the ideal Instagram reel length requires understanding your audience, goals, and content strategy. While 60 seconds is now the maximum, the best runtimes tend to fall in the 30-45 second sweet spot for most brands – long enough to tell compelling stories but short enough to maintain engagement.

Analyze your performance metrics, tailor length by content type, focus on visually captivating footage, and leverage strategic editing to make the most of the available time. There are no universally perfect lengths – find what resonates through testing and data. Well-paced reels that provide true value will achieve the greatest impact regardless of their specific runtime.

To get more Instagram reel views organically, you can buy free Instagram Reel Views from Buyautolikes.io which provides 100% real viewers who will watch your reels in full to boost key metrics. 

Understanding the ideal length for your Instagram reels based on your brand’s goals and content style is key to maximizing their performance. Not only is the ideal Instagram reel length important, but so is learning how to get more Instagram reel views. For more information, read our blog.

FAQs

1. How to get monthly reel views?

Some effective ways to get more reel views per month include: consistently posting engaging high-quality content daily, using optimal hashtags and captions for discovery, engaging with other reels to increase profile visits, and analyzing your best-performing content.

You can also buy real Instagram reel views from buyautolieks.io to kickstart organic growth.

2. How long can reels be on Instagram?

As of 2023, Instagram reels can be between 15 seconds to 60 seconds in length. Reels were previously capped at 30 seconds before Instagram expanded the limit. 60 seconds is now the maximum possible runtime allowed.

3. What is the best length for a reel to go viral?

The best reel length for going viral is generally 30-45 seconds. This provides enough time to deliver an impactful message or story that viewers want to share widely. 

Hooking people within the first 5 seconds and placing the most captivating moments in the first 15 seconds also helps increase viral potential.

4. Does Instagram reel length matter?

Yes, reel length matters because it impacts viewer retention, engagement, reach, brand awareness, and monetization potential. An ideal length keeps people watching from start to finish. Testing different lengths for your content is key.

5. Is 1 minute too long for a reel?

It depends – 1 minute may be too long if it causes viewer dropoff for that specific content or audience. But the maximum 60 seconds can work well if justified by highly compelling visuals, stories, and info. Don’t just stretch reels irrationally. Go with what drives results.

6. Do longer reels get less views?

Not necessarily, but they can if they lose the audience’s attention. Well-paced 60 second reels with strong engagement can perform just as well as shorter versions. The key is retaining viewers based on the ideal length per content, not just making reels longer irrationally.