Shorts must be vertical or square and can last up to 3 minutes. A vertical 9:16 video, such as 1080 × 1920 pixels, fills a phone screen. Shorts thumbnails use the 9:16 shape, 2160 × 3840 pixels recommended.
Shorts specs at a glance
| Shape | Vertical (9:16) or square (1:1) |
|---|---|
| Common vertical size | 1080 × 1920 px |
| Maximum length | 3 minutes |
| Thumbnail | 2160 × 3840 pixels, 9:16, at least 640 pixels tall |
Sources: YouTube Help on Shorts and on thumbnails. Checked on October 11, 2026.
How long can a Short be?
Up to 3 minutes, for videos uploaded after October 15, 2024, according to YouTube Help. Check the length in your editor before exporting: a few extra seconds can push a vertical video over the limit.
Longer is not automatically better. A Short that is cut tightly holds attention, and every second has to earn its place. Use the extra time when the idea really needs it, for example a recipe with several steps or a quick before-and-after.
Vertical or square?
Both shapes qualify as Shorts. Vertical 9:16 fills the screen of a phone held upright. Square 1:1 leaves empty space above and below on a phone, but it can be reused more easily on platforms that prefer square posts.
If you film horizontally, crop to 9:16 in your editor rather than adding blurred bars: the subject then fills the screen.
Keep the edges clear
On a phone, the Shorts player places the title, channel name and buttons over the video. Keep faces, text and important action away from the bottom and right edges so they are not covered.
Shorts thumbnails
According to YouTube Help, custom Shorts thumbnails can currently be added only in YouTube Studio on a computer, need a verified account, and should use the 9:16 shape. The thumbnail checker has a Shorts mode that tests vertical images.
FAQ
What is the aspect ratio of YouTube Shorts?
Vertical 9:16 or square 1:1. Horizontal videos are not Shorts.
What resolution should I export Shorts in?
1080 × 1920 is a common choice that keeps files light. If you filmed in 4K, 2160 × 3840 keeps more detail.
Can a Short be longer than one minute?
Yes, up to 3 minutes for videos uploaded after October 15, 2024.