Use 16:9 for YouTube and websites, 9:16 for Reels, Shorts and TikTok, and 1:1 or 4:5 for feed posts. Plan which sizes you need before editing, so nothing important gets cropped.
Aspect ratio is the shape of the video: width compared to height.
The common ones
| Ratio | Shape | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 16:9 | Wide | YouTube, websites, presentations |
| 9:16 | Tall | Reels, Shorts, TikTok, Stories |
| 1:1 | Square | Feed posts, some ads |
| 4:5 | Slightly tall | Feed posts and ads |
Platforms change what they support, so check current recommendations before you export.
Plan before you edit
Decide your main format first. Then decide which others you need.
Shooting and designing for several formats
- Shoot or design with a safe area in the center that works in every shape.
- Keep text away from the edges.
- Consider making a separate edit for each major format, instead of a rough crop.
Cropping vs re-editing
Cropping a wide video to vertical often cuts off important parts. A re-edit lets the editor reframe, resize text and rebuild layouts.
Resolution
Common sizes are 1920 by 1080 for 16:9 and 1080 by 1920 for 9:16. Higher resolutions are available when needed.
Common mistakes
- Letting a wide video sit in a vertical frame with big black bars
- Text too close to the edge
- Exporting the wrong size for a platform
Related
Vertical video safe zones and best video format for web and social.
Examples
My portfolio has wide and vertical projects side by side. See the portfolio.
Which one should you start with?
Pick the format where your audience will mostly see the video. If it's a mix, make the master in the format that is hardest to adapt (usually vertical) and plan the others from it. Where possible, design with a center-safe layout.
A delivery list to give your editor
- Main format: ___
- Additional formats: ___
- Platforms: ___
- Captions: burned in or separate file
Common mistakes to avoid
- Cropping vertical from wide with no re-edit
- Forgetting square or 4:5 for feed ads
- Exporting without checking the preview on a phone
Frequently asked questions
What is the best aspect ratio for YouTube?
16:9 for standard videos, and vertical for Shorts.
Can I use a vertical video on my website?
Yes, with a layout that suits it. Many sites show vertical videos in a narrower container.
Do different aspect ratios cost extra?
Often yes, because each version needs reframing.
Do you deliver several sizes?
Yes, when agreed in the quote. See short-form video editing.
Bhavesh Vaghela
Freelance video editor and motion designer in Rajkot, India. I make short-form videos, motion graphics, SaaS explainers, logo animations and AI video for clients worldwide.
