Why Does Instagram Ruin Video Quality: A Complete Guide

Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms where people post videos and photos to share their lives. However, many users have encountered the same issue: poor video quality after uploading. So, why does Instagram ruin video quality?

In this post, let’s explore the factors that lead to poor Instagram video quality and learn useful tips for a better viewing experience.

Why Does Instagram Ruin Video Quality

Generally speaking, compression is the primary reason for low-quality videos on Instagram.

Instagram’s Compression Algorithm

Instagram’s compression algorithm is the biggest factor in quality loss. To optimize smooth playback and reduce loading times, the platform compresses videos during upload. This effectively reduces file size, but may result in a noticeable loss of detail and sharpness.

As a result, your video may turn blurry or pixelated, seriously affecting the viewing experience. In general, Instagram compression can be done through the following aspects:

Downscaling Resolution

When processing high-resolution videos (like 4K), the platform can compress the video heavily for faster loading times and efficient storage, resulting in loss of detail, blurring, or pixelation.

Reducing Bitrate

The video bitrate directly impacts the visual quality and file size. A higher bitrate means more data is transferred per second, bringing greater detail and clarity, but larger file sizes. On the contrary, a lower bitrate can shrink the video and reduce the quality.

Adjusting Frame Rate

Typically, Instagram supports video frame rates between 23 and 60 FPS. If your video has a larger one, the platform may reduce it to the recommended 30 FPS, which can affect the smoothness and clarity of fast-moving videos.

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Other Reasons for Poor Instagram Video Quality After Upload

Why does Instagram lower video quality? This could also be caused by:

Poor Internet Connection

There is no doubt that a weak or unstable Internet connection can slow down the upload speeds. If so, Instagram may compress the video to speed up the process.

Aspect Ratio Adjustments

Instagram recommends different aspect ratios based on the content type. For example, Reels and Stories recommend a 9:16 aspect ratio.

If your video doesn’t meet the platform’s upload requirements, it can be cropped or distorted, thus affecting the video quality.

Appropriate Instagram Settings

The Instagram mobile app gives you options to save your cellular data. If you’ve enabled the Data Saver mode or disabled the Upload at highest quality setting, the upload quality will be automatically adjusted to fit your network conditions.

Therefore, when you suffer from a poor network, your video quality will be decreased.

Why does Instagram lower video quality? I believe you should understand now.

Whether you’re a content creator, influencer, or casual user, ensuring high-quality uploads is essential. So, in the next part, I’ll explain several tips to help you maintain video quality and minimize quality loss on Instagram.

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How to Improve Video Quality on Instagram

There is no way to avoid compression on Instagram, but there are some tips to help you enhance video quality on the platform.

Export Videos Using Instagram Recommended Settings

First, I suggest that you export videos using Instagram’s recommended settings to ensure the best video quality.

• Format: MP4 or MOV
• Codec: H.264 for video and AA for audio
• Resolution: up to 1080P (1080 x 1920 for Reels, Stories, and Instagram Video, 1080 x 1350 for vertical Feed videos, and 1080 x 1080 for square Feed videos)
• Aspect Ratio: 9:16 for Reels, Stories, 1:1 or 4:5 for Feed videos
• Frame Rate: 30 FPS

Additionally, pay attention to the video file size, and it should not exceed Instagram’s specific video file size limit.

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High-Quality Upload Is Turned on

When you’re going to post a video to Instagram on your smartphone, first make sure the high-quality is enabled.

1. Go to your profile on Instagram.
2. Click the three-line menu at the top right to open Settings.
3. Scroll down and tap Data usage and media quality.
4. Disable the Data Saver mode.
5. Enable the Upload at highest quality option.

Upload Videos via a Stable Wi-Fi Connection

As we mentioned above, the internet connection affects both the upload speed and quality. To avoid this, use a strong Wi-Fi network to upload your video to Instagram.

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Conclusion

In this post, I give you the answer to the question “Why does Instagram ruin video quality?”. While Instagram compression is unavoidable, you can minimize quality loss by optimizing your video or other settings before uploading.