WhatsApp has become one of the most popular messaging apps, allowing users to easily communicate with friends, family, coworkers, and more through text, voice notes, images, documents and videos. However, WhatsApp does impose file size limits when sending media, which can cause issues when trying to send larger videos.
Video Size Limit
WhatsApp currently limits video files sent through the app to a maximum of 16MB. This is done to reduce strain on their servers from excessively large files being shared. For reference, here are some estimated video lengths for different file sizes:
| 6MB | 1 minute video (compressed) |
| 10MB | 2 minute video (compressed) |
| 16MB | 3-4 minute video (compressed) |
| 30MB | 5-6 minute video (compressed) |
As you can see, typical video compression formats make it difficult to fit a high quality 6 minute video within the 16MB file size limit. A 6 minute video compressed with efficient codecs may range from 30MB to over 100MB depending on the resolution and frame rate.
Solutions
If you are trying to send a longer high quality video, there are a couple options to work around the WhatsApp video limit:
Compress the Video
Use a third party video compressor to reduce the size. This will lower the quality, but can allow you to fit a longer video under the size limit. Some options for video compression include:
- HandBrake – Open source video transcoder for Windows, Mac and Linux
- Adobe Media Encoder – Compression and encoding software included in Creative Cloud
- Avidemux – Free video editor and compressor for Windows, Mac and Linux
- Online compression tools like Clipchamp, Kapwing, EZGIF
Experiment with the settings to get the best balance of size reduction versus acceptable quality loss. Target under 16MB to ensure it sends through WhatsApp.
Send a Google Drive or Dropbox Link
Rather than attaching the full video file, upload it to Google Drive, Dropbox or another cloud storage service that allows public sharing. Generate a shareable link and send that in your WhatsApp message. The recipient can then stream or download the original quality video from the cloud service without the WhatsApp restrictions.
Split the Video
Using a video editing tool, split the full length video into multiple smaller segments under 16MB each. Number each segment video file, then send them through WhatsApp in sequence. The recipient can then rearrange them and stitch together to watch the full video.
Why the Limit Exists
WhatsApp needs to impose file size limits to manage the load on their servers and networks. Some key reasons include:
- Prevent spam and abuse – Large videos can overburden networks and servers if no limits existed.
- Compatibility across devices – Lower-end smartphones may have trouble processing very large video files sent through WhatsApp.
- Data usage for users – Video files consume mobile data. Limits help keep costs down for users who have limited data plans.
- Quick message syncing – Smaller files allow WhatsApp to quickly sync messages across linked devices.
The 16MB limit aims to strike a balance, allowing users to exchange meaningful videos while controlling potential issues from overly large media files being shared.
Other WhatsApp Media Limits
Along with video files, WhatsApp enforces size limits on other media as well:
- Photos – Send up to 16MB per image
- GIFs – Send up to 16MB per GIF animation
- Audio – Send up to 16 MB per audio clip
- Documents – Send up to 100MB per document
Trying to send media above these limits will result in errors showing the file is too big. The same solutions of compressing files or using cloud links can help get around limits for photos, GIFs, audio and documents.
Future Possibilities
While the 16MB video limit has existed for some time, WhatsApp may consider increasing it in the future as technology improves. Some possible changes include:
- Higher limits for certain file types like video or documents
- Limits based on device type and capabilities
- Premium accounts with higher limits compared to free accounts
However, any limit increases would likely happen slowly and incrementally to maintain control over strains on their systems. Heavy media users may need to rely on compression, cloud uploads and multi-part videos when sharing lengthy high quality videos through WhatsApp.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s 16MB limit for video files allows you to share short video clips, but makes sending longer high quality videos difficult. Compressing videos or utilizing cloud storage links are two solutions to work around this limit when you need to share longer video content through WhatsApp. Understanding the reasons for the restriction can help users find the right balance between convenience and quality when using WhatsApp to send videos to friends, family and coworkers.