TikTok aspect ratios and sizes
TikTok is designed around a vertical, full-screen viewing experience. A 9:16 source uses that canvas efficiently, but interface elements can cover the edges even when the video dimensions are correct.
TikTok size quick reference
| Placement | Ratio | Working size | Basis | Planning note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-screen vertical video | 9:16 | 1080 × 1920 | Recommended working canvas | Best starting point for a high-resolution vertical creative. | |
| Minimum planning reference | 9:16 | 720 × 1280 | 720p vertical | Smaller exact 9:16 frame; use a higher-quality source when available. | |
| Square source | 1:1 | 1080 × 1080 | Alternate source shape | Does not fill a 9:16 screen without added space or adaptive presentation. |
Prepare a TikTok video without accidental cropping
- Create the timeline at 1080 × 1920 so the export is exactly 9:16.
- Keep faces, captions, product details and calls to action inside a central safe area rather than touching the top, bottom or right edge.
- Preview the uploaded result in TikTok; safe-area templates are planning aids, not permanent interface guarantees.
A practical export workflow
If the source is landscape, first decide whether to crop, reframe or add a background. Stretching 16:9 directly into 9:16 distorts the picture. Use crop-loss measurements to see how much width disappears, then reposition the subject deliberately.
Use the image checker for a source image or the video calculator for planned export dimensions. Calculations happen in your browser.
What this guide does not guarantee
This guide describes a practical organic-video workflow. Ad placements, effects, captions and app versions may use different overlays or requirements, so confirm the current placement before final delivery.
A ratio describes shape; it does not guarantee file quality, accepted codec, duration, file size or how an interface crops a preview.
Official references
Platform requirements change. These first-party pages are the final reference for a current publishing decision.
Related calculators and guides
Frequently asked questions
What is the best aspect ratio for TikTok?
9:16 is the standard full-screen vertical choice. A practical high-resolution canvas is 1080 × 1920.
Will 1080 × 1920 prevent every overlay?
No. Correct dimensions prevent ratio mismatch, but captions, buttons and interface controls can still cover content near the edges.
Can I upload a 16:9 video to TikTok?
The file may be accepted, but it will not naturally fill a vertical screen. Crop, reframe or add intentional canvas space instead of stretching it.