Facebook

Ultimate Guide to Facebook Video Ad Size and Specs

Published June 16, 2024 by Henry Earle A'Hern

A visual representation of Ultimate Guide to Facebook Video Ad Size and Specs

For effective online advertising, it’s essential to understand the optimal Facebook video ad sizes and placements. Video ads are highly versatile and capture user’s attention, driving higher engagement. With over 2.45 billion monthly active users (MAU), Facebook is one of the most powerful platforms for business advertising.

Understanding Video Ad Dimensions

When using Facebook video ads,  size and dimensions matter.  Ad placements have specific requirements, and not following these guidelines can result in low-quality ads, or ads that are cropped or distorted. Facebook video size limits must be correct to ensure ads look their best. Depending on the use case video ad size for Facebook can differ dramatically.

Understanding the required Facebook video size, width, and height makes a difference in how viewers display and perceive content. Meeting platform-specific requirements and using the right Facebook video size format ensures your message is delivered effectively and represents your brand appropriately

Optimizing Video Ads for Different Platforms

Facebook offers multiple platforms for video ad placement, including:

  • News Feed
  • Stories
  • In-Stream
  • Marketplace

Each ad placement has its requirements, and tailoring your content can improve ad performance. Facebook video size ratio in pixels also varies depending on the ad location and purpose.

For example, Facebook’s news feed recommends a minimum resolution of:

  • 1080 x 1080 pixels for square videos
  • 1080 x 608 pixels for landscape videos
  • 1080 x 1350 pixels for vertical videos

The optimal Facebook video size for mobile is 1080 x 1920 pixels which is important if your audience is accessing your content primarily from handheld devices.

Understanding the specific requirements will help you create video ads that seamlessly integrate into users’ feeds and increase the chance of engagement and conversions. Optimizing video ad dimensions will enhance the overall viewing experience for your audience and drive better results for your campaigns.

Choosing the Right Video Format for Your Campaign

Facebook offers a variety of ad placement locations, such as:

  • In-stream videos
  • Carousel videos
  • Instant article videos

You may need to create a Facebook video ad size that fits these placements or is designed as a portrait or landscape orientation.

Each format is suited to specific campaign objectives. In-stream videos, for example, are ideal for reaching a wide audience and increasing brand awareness.

Carousel videos allow for showcasing multiple products or features in a single ad.

Choose the right video format for your campaign to maximize the impact of your content and achieve your marketing goals.

Exploring Instant Article Videos

Instant article videos captivate users as they scroll through their Facebook feeds. These videos play automatically and grab attention instantly.

To maximize the impact of your instant article videos, follow these best practices:

  • Create videos that are visually compelling and tell a story.
  • Keep videos concise and to the point.
  • Add captions to make your videos accessible to all users.
  • Use the best Facebook ad video size for mobile viewing.

Visual storytelling should be used when crafting videos to evoke emotions and tell a narrative. This tactic can significantly increase viewer engagement.

Once the right Facebook video ad size has been selected, use a mix of:

  • Captivating visuals
  • Music
  • Text overlays

This will enhance the visual aspect of your video and create a more immersive experience for your audience.

It’s essential to deliver your video ad message quickly using the most effective Facebook video size. Convey the main points in the first few seconds to hook viewers. Every second of your video should add value to the viewer’s experience. Keep videos concise and impactful to keep viewers watching.

Maximizing Engagement with In-Stream Videos

Section Image

In-stream videos appear within other content, such as during breaks in longer videos or as mid-roll ads. These videos provide a unique opportunity to capture the attention of viewers.

Make the most of in-stream video ads by:

  • Creating videos with captivating intros to hook viewers.
  • Delivering your message concisely.
  • Adding strong call-to-action
  • Testing different video lengths to find the optimal duration.
  • Selecting the correct video ad size for Facebook

When crafting in-stream videos, it’s essential to consider context. Understand the platform and audience demographics to tailor content that resonates effectively and hits common pain points.

Demographics should also be taken into consideration. Younger audiences will require a different tone and style than videos intended for professionals.

Interactive elements within in-stream videos can enhance viewer engagement with features like:

  • Clickable links
  • Interactive polls
  • Embedded forms

These elements encourage viewers to interact and make the experience memorable. Opportunities for viewers to participate will create a deeper connection and help to drive conversions.

Marketplace Video Ads

Section Image

Marketplace is a popular section on Facebook where users buy and sell items. Video ads in the Marketplace can reach customers looking to make a purchase.

To create compelling marketplace video ads:

  • Showcase your product or service in action.
  • Highlight the unique features and benefits.
  • Include customer testimonials.
  • Prioritize mobile optimization.

Visual images are a powerful tool for grabbing the attention of customers. Demonstrate how your product can be used in real-life scenarios through video ads, and provide a clear understanding of the product’s value and functionality. Customers are more likely to buy when they can visualize using the product.

Focus on what sets your product apart from competitors. Whether it’s superior quality, innovative design, or exceptional customer service, articulate these selling points in your video ads to create a strong brand identity and position your product as the go-to choice for potential buyers.

In a crowded marketplace, standing out is key to attracting and retaining customers.

Crafting Compelling Stories Through Video Ads

Section Image

Facebook stories provide a full-screen, immersive experience. To create compelling and engaging story video ads:

  • Select the correct video orientation
  • Keep the content relevant to users
  • Use graphics and eye-catching imagery
  • Use content that stirs an emotional response

Music and sound effects enhance the emotional impact of your story. The right soundtrack can evoke strong emotions and create a lasting impression on viewers. Pay attention to the pacing of your video to maintain audience interest. A well-paced video keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

Visually stunning graphics and animations can elevate the overall quality of your video ad. Eye-catching visuals grab the viewer’s attention and help to communicate your message effectively. Combine compelling images with a well-crafted story to create a video ad experience that is memorable and impactful.

Navigating Video Feeds

Video feeds are a treasure trove of content for Facebook users but for videos to stand out you will need a thumbnail that entices viewers to click and watch.

Here are some strategies to use:

  • Text overlays will provide additional context.
  • Experiment with video lengths and formats.
  • Analyze metrics regularly.
  • Use the correct Facebook ads video thumbnail size.

Create eye-catching thumbnail images using vibrant colors, bold fonts, and striking imagery that encapsulates the essence of your video content. A visually appealing thumbnail increases the chances of users stopping to engage with your video.

Text overlays convey key messages or evoke emotions before the video is viewed. Whether it’s a compelling question, a bold statement, or a sneak peek into the video’s content, text overlays can spark curiosity and compel users to hit the play button.

Facebook Image Ad Specifications

Understanding Facebook video ad size requirements is essential for the maximum visual impact. Facebook recommends using images that are a minimum of 1,200 x 628 pixels, with a ratio of 1.91:1 or 1:1. They should be visually appealing and relevant to your target audience.

High-quality images with bright vibrant colors help your ad stand out in a crowded news feed. Pictures or photos that feature people or evoke emotions create a strong connection with viewers and can increase engagement.

Facebook has specific guidelines regarding the amount of text allowed on ad images. Text overlay on images should be limited to a maximum of 20%. Ad text should be concise and impactful, complementing visual elements rather than overpowering them.

Creating Dynamic Campaigns with Facebook Carousel Ads

Carousel ads showcase multiple images or videos within a single ad unit, providing an engaging experience for viewers. This format is particularly effective for capturing attention and driving conversions.

To design eye-catching carousel ads use:

  • High-quality images
  • A compelling headline and description.
  • Concise and persuasive copy.
  • Seamless transitions between cards
  • A call-to-action button. 

Strategically leverage carousel ads and maximize the impact of your advertising efforts. Capture attention and entice users to explore further with a carousel that is visually striking and compelling. The first card should act as a gateway, leading viewers into the rest of your carousel content.

Showcase product features or use cases across carousel cards. Highlight the versatility and benefits of your offering to cater to a wider range of user interests and preferences.

Testimonials or reviews build trust and credibility. Social proof plays a strong role in influencing purchasing decisions, so incorporating customer stories can significantly boost conversions.

Final Words

Implement these Facebook video ad strategies to create effective ads that captivate your audience, drive conversions, and deliver tangible results for your business. Continuously monitor and analyze your ad performance to optimize your campaigns and stay ahead of the competition. With Facebook carousel ads, the possibilities are endless.

For help optimizing your Facebook video ad campaigns get in touch with the marketing team at Smarcomms. 

Back to Blog

Want better results on social media?

We'll manage everything for you so you can focus on your business and save 10+ hours a week. We've served over 10,000 businesses since 2016.

Zero-Risk, Money-Back Guarantee