As a leading professional networking platform, LinkedIn allows users to share video content as part of their profiles, posts, and other interactions on the site. However, like most social media platforms, LinkedIn does have limitations when it comes to video file sizes and lengths. Understanding LinkedIn’s video requirements can help you optimize your video content for sharing on the platform.
LinkedIn Video File Size Limits
When uploading videos directly to LinkedIn to include in your profile, post, or message, there are file size limits in place. LinkedIn currently supports video files up to 5GB in size. This provides ample space for uploading full-length videos at high resolutions if desired. Just keep in mind that larger video files may take longer to upload and stream for viewers.
The maximum resolution for uploaded videos on LinkedIn is currently 1080p HD. So while you can technically upload very large video files, exporting your source videos at 1080p is recommended as an optimal balance of quality and file size for the platform.
LinkedIn Video Length Limits
In addition to file size, LinkedIn also places limits on video lengths for different content types:
- Profile videos – 10 minutes maximum
- Shared post videos – 10 minutes maximum
- Message attachments – 5 minutes maximum
- Sponsored content – 10 minutes maximum
Keeping your videos within these length constraints helps ensure your content plays back properly across LinkedIn and keeps viewers engaged. Of course, you can break longer videos up into multiple parts if needed to work within the time limits.
Video Dimensions
When uploading video directly to LinkedIn, the video player will automatically scale and crop your video content to fit the standard video dimensions used across the platform. This includes:
- Profile Videos – 800 x 800 pixels
- Shared Post Videos – 504 x 566 pixels
To avoid excessive cropping or distortion, it’s best to export your source videos at or near these dimensions if possible. Using standard 16:9 landscape orientation is also recommended.
Optimizing Video for LinkedIn
To ensure your videos look great on LinkedIn and play back smoothly for viewers, here are a few optimization best practices:
- Use landscape orientation at 16:9 aspect ratio for best results
- Export source files at 1080p resolution or lower
- Adjust video length to fit content type limits
- Compress files to reduce size while retaining quality
- Add captions or subtitles for greater accessibility
Video File Types Supported
LinkedIn supports the following video file formats for direct uploads:
MP4 | Most recommended format due to widespread compatibility |
MOV | QuickTime format, compatible on most devices |
AVI | Works but not recommended due to large file sizes |
WMV | Windows Media Video format supported |
MPEG-2 | Supports some MPEG-2 encoded files |
For the easiest upload and best playback across devices, encoding source videos as MP4 is recommended. MOV, AVI, WMV and some MPEG-2 files are supported as well.
Uploading vs. Linking to External Videos
In addition to uploading videos directly, you can also embed or link to videos hosted externally, such as on YouTube or Vimeo. This allows you to upload longer form videos than LinkedIn’s limits, while still making them viewable within your LinkedIn content.
Some benefits of linking vs. direct uploads include:
- No file size limits beyond what external platform allows
- View counts on external platform may be higher
- Can host ungated content accessible to non-LinkedIn users
However, direct uploads make for a more seamless viewing experience and give you full control and visibility on LinkedIn.
Live Video Streaming
LinkedIn also supports live streaming video through its LinkedIn Live platform. This allows you to share live events, conversations, presentations and more through real-time streaming video.
Some key things to note about LinkedIn Live include:
- Stream key required for broadcasting live
- Stream resolutions up to 1080p at 30fps
- Appears in LinkedIn feed during broadcast
- Video remains available afterwards for replay
Live video can help create an engaging, in-the-moment experience and human connection between you and your audience. Just keep in mind the preparation and commitment required for successful live streaming events.
Usage Rights and Restrictions
As when sharing any content on LinkedIn, you need to ensure you have proper rights and permissions for the videos you upload. Do not share or stream copyrighted content without authorization or you may risk account restrictions. Likewise, follow LinkedIn’s community guidelines regarding appropriate content.
When uploading videos directly to LinkedIn, you grant LinkedIn certain usage rights to replay and share your videos on its platform. You retain full ownership of the original content itself.
Metrics and Performance
LinkedIn provides metrics to help you gauge engagement and views for videos shared directly on its platform. You can see statistics like:
- Total video views
- Average percentage watched
- Total comments
- Shares and reactions
Monitoring these metrics can help you identify best-performing video content to produce more of, as well as tactics that help boost video engagement.
For video links, you’ll need to rely on analytics from the external site for performance data. Some key metrics to analyze include views, completion rate, traffic driven, and engagement.
Advertising LinkedIn Videos
You can further expand the reach of videos you post directly on LinkedIn by promoting them through LinkedIn’s advertising platform. Options include:
- Sponsored Video ads – Pay for additional views of your uploaded videos
- Sponsored Content – Promote video posts more broadly to your target audience
- Message Ads – Increase views of videos shared via messaging
Experimenting with promoted videos can help justify extra production efforts to create highly engaging video content.
Best Practices for LinkedIn Videos
To wrap up, here are some top tips for success with video marketing on LinkedIn:
- Optimize production quality – Invest in HD video and professional editing
- Keep it short and concise – Get to the point within time limits
- Highlight faces and human connection – Help viewers relate
- Use captions for sound-off viewing – Enhance accessibility
- Include calls-to-action – Drive desired conversions
- Promote your best content – Double down on what resonates
Conclusion
While LinkedIn enforces limits on video file size and length, you still have plenty of flexibility to share compelling video content. Focus on producing videos optimized for LinkedIn’s specifications. Share directly on LinkedIn for ease of use or link to external platforms for longer videos. With the right strategy, video can be a powerful tool for engaging your professional network.