WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to share messages, photos, videos and more with individuals or groups. When sending videos in WhatsApp groups, there are file size limits to be aware of.
WhatsApp Video Size Limit
The maximum video size that can be sent through WhatsApp is based on the length of the video. Specifically, WhatsApp allows videos up to 16MB if they are less than 5 minutes long, and up to 64MB for videos between 5 and 10 minutes in length.
If you try to send a video larger than these size limits, it will fail to send and you will see an error message that the video file is too large. Compressing or trimming the video can help reduce the size to under the limit.
Less than 5 minute videos
For videos under 5 minutes in length, the file size limit is 16MB. This allows you to send decent quality videos through WhatsApp. A video of 480p resolution will typically stay under 16MB for that duration.
Here are some example video sizes and resolutions that can be sent for under 5 minute videos:
- 480p at 20fps: 16MB limit
- 360p at 30fps: 16MB limit
- 240p at 15fps: Under 16MB
5 to 10 minute videos
Longer videos between 5 and 10 minutes can have a larger 64MB file size. This allows for better quality and resolution at that length. Some examples include:
- 720p at 30fps: Around 64MB
- 480p at 30fps: Below 64MB
- 360p at 30fps: Below 64MB
Compressing Videos to Fit File Size Limits
If your video exceeds the file size limits for its length, you have a couple options to reduce the size:
Lower Video Resolution
One of the biggest factors determining video file size is resolution. By lowering the video resolution you can significantly reduce the file size.
Some resolution options to consider:
- 480p HD video
- 360p video
- 240p video
A lower resolution like 360p or 240p will allow you to stay under the 16MB or 64MB limits in most cases.
Reduce Video Bitrate
The video bitrate, measured in kbps (kilobits per second), determines how much data is used to store each second of the video. Reducing the bitrate can lower the file size.
For example, a 480p video may have a 2500 kbps bitrate originally. Lowering that to 1500 kbps or 1000 kbps can reduce the file size while maintaining decent quality.
Use Video Compression Software
Video compressor software like Handbrake allows you to customize resolution, bitrates, codecs and other settings to optimize your video for sharing on messaging apps. This gives you more control than simply lowering resolution in your camera app.
Online compression tools like CloudConvert can also reduce WhatsApp video sizes easily.
Trim Length of the Video
If your video is only slightly over the size limit, trimming a few seconds from the beginning or end can potentially get it under the limit. This is an easy solution for videos that are only marginally too large for WhatsApp.
Other WhatsApp Video File Type and Length Limits
In addition to the file size limits, WhatsApp also has restrictions on video file types and lengths:
- Video file formats allowed: MP4, M4V, 3GP
- Maximum length: 30 minutes
Any videos longer than 30 minutes or in other formats like AVI, MKV, MOV, etc. cannot be sent through WhatsApp.
Sending Larger Videos Through WhatsApp
If you have a video that exceeds the file size or length restrictions for WhatsApp, there are a couple options to send it:
Send via Google Drive or Dropbox Link
Store the video in Google Drive or Dropbox, then create a shareable link and send that in your WhatsApp chat. The recipient can then download or stream the video from there.
Transfer via External File Sharing Apps
Apps like ShareIt, Xender, TrebleShot and others allow local file sharing between devices over Wi-Fi hotspot or Bluetooth. You can use them to transfer larger videos from your phone to a recipient’s device.
Conclusion
To summarize the key points:
- WhatsApp has a 16MB file size limit for less than 5 minute videos.
- Videos between 5 and 10 minutes can be up to 64MB.
- Lower resolution or bitrate can reduce video sizes.
- Compression software helps optimize video sizes.
- You can share larger videos via Google Drive links or file transfer apps.
Following the WhatsApp video size limits ensures your recipients can view the videos you send through groups or individual chats without issues. Compressing videos and sharing via links provides options when your files are too large for sending directly through WhatsApp.
WhatsApp’s video limits allow you to share special moments and memories with quality videos without running into file size problems. Understanding and working within these limits helps you get the most out of WhatsApp’s video sharing capabilities.
Hopefully this guide has helped explain WhatsApp’s video size restrictions and how to manage your videos to work within the limits. With the right compression and settings, you can continue enjoying sharing videos with your WhatsApp contacts!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does WhatsApp reduce video quality?
WhatsApp does not automatically reduce video quality or resolution. However, it will fail to send videos over its size limits. You need to manually compress or reduce resolution on videos larger than 16MB or 64MB to meet WhatsApp’s requirements.
How can I send large videos on WhatsApp?
For videos larger than WhatsApp’s limits, you can upload them to a cloud drive like Google Drive or Dropbox and share the link. Alternatively, you can use external file sharing apps to transfer the video directly to the recipient’s device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
What is the best video format for WhatsApp?
MP4 is the recommended video format for WhatsApp. MP4 files tend to provide good compression and quality. Other formats like M4V and 3GP are also supported.
Why does WhatsApp reduce video quality?
WhatsApp does not automatically reduce video quality. The video size limits are in place to ensure files can transfer quickly and reliably through WhatsApp’s servers. You need to manually compress or reduce video resolution to meet the file size limits.
Can I send videos longer than 30 minutes on WhatsApp?
No, WhatsApp does not allow videos longer than 30 minutes. If you need to share a video longer than 30 minutes, you will have to split it into parts, use a cloud drive link, or transfer via a separate file sharing app.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s video size limits help ensure smooth sharing of videos up to lengths of 30 minutes. While quality may need to be reduced for longer videos, compression and resolution adjustments allow you to meet the requirements. With some informed preparation of your videos and leverage of workarounds like cloud links when necessary, you can continue enjoying seamless video messaging through WhatsApp.