Common social image sizes
Platforms change their recommendations and crop images differently across feeds, search results, and mobile layouts. The sizes below are useful starting points for original files, not permanent legal specifications.
| Placement | Starting size | Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Instagram square post | 1080 × 1080 | 1:1 |
| Instagram portrait post | 1080 × 1350 | 4:5 |
| Instagram Story or Reel | 1080 × 1920 | 9:16 |
| Instagram profile picture | 400 × 400 or larger square | 1:1, displayed as a circle |
| YouTube thumbnail | 1280 × 720 | 16:9 |
| LinkedIn link image | 1200 × 627 | About 1.91:1 |
| X post image | 1600 × 900 | 16:9 |
| Open Graph social card | 1200 × 630 | About 1.91:1 |
Design with a safe area
A profile image may be masked into a circle. A vertical Story can be covered by interface controls at the top and bottom. Keep essential text and faces a little inside the outer edge so a second crop does not remove them.
For feed images, test the composition at thumbnail size. Large shapes and one clear subject usually remain readable after the platform reduces the image.
Dimensions and file size are different
Pixel dimensions determine the shape and amount of image data. File size is the number of bytes after encoding. You can have a 1080 × 1080 image that is 80 KB or several megabytes depending on content, format, and quality.
Resize first when the shape is wrong, then compress when the uploader limits the file size.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1080 pixels enough for social media?
It is a practical width for many social files and displays. Download originals from the platform if you need to verify its current recommendations.
Why does my image get cropped after upload?
Platforms may use a different aspect ratio for the feed, search, or mobile layout. Keep critical content inside a safe area.
Should I upload a PNG or JPEG?
Use JPEG or WebP for photos unless transparency or text detail requires PNG. Test the final file before publishing.
Put this guide into practice: process the image locally without creating an account or uploading it.
Open the image resizer