Question 1

What is the best video format for social media?

Accepted Answer

The most widely accepted format is MP4 with H.264 video codec and AAC audio. It ensures compatibility across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, offering good quality at a reasonable file size.

Question 2

Why does my video lose quality after uploading to YouTube or Instagram?

Accepted Answer

Platforms like YouTube and Instagram re-encode your videos to optimize for playback and bandwidth. Uploading at the highest possible quality within platform limits helps reduce compression artifacts.

Question 3

What are the best export settings for Instagram Reels or TikTok?

Accepted Answer

Export at 1080x1920 resolution, use H.264 codec, and set the frame rate to 30fps. Keep the bitrate around 5-8 Mbps to balance quality and file size for vertical video formats.

Question 4

How do I upload a 4K video to YouTube without losing quality?

Accepted Answer

Use MP4 with H.264 or HEVC (H.265), export at a bitrate of 35–45 Mbps, and ensure your resolution is 3840x2160 (4K). Check YouTube’s upload settings for updates regularly.

Question 5

Why won’t my video upload to Facebook?

Accepted Answer

Common issues include unsupported formats (use MP4/H.264), file sizes exceeding 4GB, or incompatible aspect ratios. Always review Facebook's video specs before exporting.

Social media video specs

The Creator’s Cheat Sheet: Best Video Formats & Codecs for Social Media (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook)