What is YouTube Shorts aspect ratio? Optimal size

What is YouTube Shorts aspect ratio is a question that plays an important role in determining the success of a video. If you want to create short films that attract millions of views, let’s find out the answer with Mid-Man in this article!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What is YouTube Shorts aspect ratio?

The common aspect ratio for YouTube Shorts is 9:16, with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. Content creators on YouTube need to design Shorts in a vertical aspect ratio to ensure video quality.

Recording vertical videos directly on your mobile phone ensures you meet YouTube Shorts’ aspect ratio requirements. If using a camera, you can record in a 16:9 aspect ratio and then use video editing software to rotate it to a 9:16 aspect ratio.

what is youtube shorts aspect ratio — *You can adjust the 16:9 aspect ratio to 9:16 to fit YouTube Shorts*

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2. The ideal aspect ratio for YouTube Shorts

What is the best aspect ratio for Youtube Shorts? YouTube Shorts must be in a vertical format with a 1080 by 1920 resolution. This ensures the video covers the entire mobile screen without black bars, making it more visually appealing to the audience.

To appear on the YouTube Shorts feed, you need to use the ideal aspect ratio of 9:16. Videos uploaded with this aspect ratio will classify as Shorts and be added to users’ queues according to YouTube’s algorithm.

Always choose the 9:16 aspect ratio when recording from a mobile device or in your video editor settings. If you have trouble setting this aspect ratio on your mobile camera, the best option is to record the YouTube Short directly from the YouTube mobile app.

3. Why is the aspect ratio of YouTube Shorts so important?

YouTube Shorts has revolutionized the way we create and consume video content, but why is aspect ratio so crucial to its success?

In the visually-driven world of social media, the appearance of your content is as important as the message it conveys. The aspect ratio of your Shorts determines how your video is displayed on different devices, impacting viewer experience and engagement.

It’s not just about meeting YouTube’s requirements; it’s about optimizing your content to look its best on the platform’s distinctive vertical format.

Using the correct aspect ratio ensures your content is fully visible without awkward cropping or black bars, which can detract from the viewing experience. This can greatly influence viewer retention and increase the likelihood of your content being shared and recommended by YouTube’s algorithm.

4. What are typical errors in YouTube Shorts aspect ratio that should be avoided?

Creating YouTube Shorts with the correct aspect ratio is essential, but creators often face several pitfalls. Here are some typical errors and tips for avoiding them:

Using horizontal video: A common error is using 16:9 horizontal videos for Shorts. This leads to large black bars at the top and bottom, diminishing the video’s impact.
Incorrect aspect ratio: Using any aspect ratio other than 9:16 can result in your content being cropped or displayed with black bars, affecting the viewing experience.
Ignoring safe zones: Not accounting for elements like the channel avatar or closed captions can obscure important visual components.
Not optimizing for mobile: Since most Shorts are viewed on mobile devices, ensure your content is easily viewable on smaller screens.
Inconsistent aspect ratios: Mixing different aspect ratios across your Shorts can give your channel an unprofessional appearance.
Overcomplicating transitions: Complex transitions that work in horizontal videos may not translate well to the vertical format. Keep transitions simple and smooth.
Neglecting vertical composition: Not composing shots specifically for the vertical format can lead to wasted space and less engaging content.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can optimize your YouTube Shorts for the best possible viewing experience.

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5. Comparing YouTube Shorts aspect ratios

Can you upload videos to YouTube Shorts that are square or landscape in addition to the recommended 9:16 aspect ratio? Here are the pros and cons of 16:9 and 1:1:

5.1. Aspect Ratio: 16:9

✅Pros:

Familiar territory: The traditional format for YouTube content, so creators and viewers alike are well-acquainted with it.
Landscape friendly: Ideal for showcasing wider scenes, such as landscapes or group shots, making it suitable for specific types of content.

❌Cons:

Not mobile-optimized: Viewing in portrait mode on mobile devices causes black bars at the top and bottom, which can diminish the viewing experience.
Reduced engagement for Shorts: This format may not capture the interest of mobile-first audiences who favor the immersive, full-screen experience of vertical videos.

5.2. Aspect Ratio: 1:1 (Square)

✅Pros:

Flexibility: Provides a middle ground, making it a suitable option for content that doesn’t fit neatly into extremely vertical or horizontal formats.
Screen real estate: Although it doesn’t fully utilize the vertical space, it remains effective for mobile viewing.

❌Cons:

Not fully optimized for mobile: Square videos often result in black bars above and below the video frame on mobile devices.
Reduced immersion: It doesn’t provide the same immersive experience as the 9:16 aspect ratio, which can impact viewer engagement.

6. FAQs

Which YouTube Shorts resolution is the best?

YouTube recommends using the 9:16 aspect ratio for Shorts, with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This format is favored by the algorithm and can lead to higher engagement with your videos.

Can I use a different YouTube Short aspect ratio?

You can experiment with 16:9 or 1:1 aspect ratios, but 9:16 remains the preferred choice for most creators.

What occurs when I submit a video to YouTube Shorts that has a different aspect ratio?

If your YouTube Shorts aspect ratio differs from the required 9:16, the clip will likely be displayed with black bars to fit the vertical format. Although the video will still be viewable, these bars can detract from the overall viewing experience.

How can I know if my video is of the required minimum resolution for YouTube Shorts?

Check the video’s vertical resolution to ensure it is at least 1080 pixels in height. Uploading the video to YouTube as unlisted or private allows you to preview how it will appear in the Shorts format.

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What is YouTube Shorts aspect ratio is a question that many content creators ask to optimize their videos. Understanding the ideal aspect ratio will help you create attractive footage, attract high engagement and bring your channel closer to viewers. Start your creative journey today with the knowledge equipped by Mid-Man!