Optimize Images & Videos for WhatsApp - Size Guide 2026
Send crisp photos and videos without WhatsApp destroying quality.
WhatsApp Image Sizes
| Type | Dimensions | Aspect Ratio | Max Size | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Photo | 1600 x 1200 (auto-resized) | Original | 16 MB (after compression) | JPG |
| Profile Picture | 500 x 500 | 1:1 | 5 MB | JPG, PNG |
| Status Image | 1080 x 1920 | 9:16 | 16 MB | JPG, PNG |
| Document Photo (uncompressed) | Original | Original | 2 GB | Any image format |
WhatsApp Video Specs
| Type | Resolution | Max Duration | Max File Size | Bitrate | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Video | 960 x 540 (auto-resized) | No hard limit | 16 MB (after compression) | Auto (low) | MP4 (H.264) |
| Status Video | 960 x 540 | 30 seconds | 16 MB | Auto (low) | MP4 (H.264) |
| Document Video (uncompressed) | Original | No limit | 2 GB | Original | Any video format |
Recommended Compression Settings for WhatsApp
Image Compression
- Quality Level
- 70-80% (WhatsApp auto-compresses to ~70%)
- Best Format
- JPG (WhatsApp converts everything to JPG)
Video Compression
- Codec
- H.264 (auto-transcoded)
- Video Bitrate
- ~1 Mbps (auto-compressed)
- Audio Bitrate
- 64-96 kbps AAC
Quick Tips for WhatsApp
Send photos as Documents (paperclip > Document) to bypass compression. The recipient gets the original file at full quality.
WhatsApp auto-resizes images to ~1600px on the longest side and compresses to ~70% JPG quality. Pre-compressing to exactly these specs gives you more control.
For Status updates, export at 1080 x 1920 for best quality. WhatsApp still compresses them, but starting high helps.
Videos sent as regular messages are heavily compressed to ~16 MB. For quality, send as a Document instead.
Use WhatsApp Web/Desktop for slightly better image quality — desktop sends at marginally higher quality than mobile.
Free Tools to Optimize for WhatsApp
Use our free browser-based tools to resize, compress, and optimize your media for WhatsApp. No uploads, no signups — 100% private.
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Compress VideoFrequently Asked Questions
Why does WhatsApp reduce image quality?
WhatsApp compresses all shared photos to reduce bandwidth usage. Images are automatically resized to approximately 1600 x 1200 pixels and compressed to around 70% JPG quality. The only way to send original-quality photos is to share them as Documents.
How do I send photos without compression on WhatsApp?
Tap the paperclip (attachment) icon and select "Document" instead of "Photos & Videos." Then browse to your photo file. The image will be sent at original quality and resolution, up to 2 GB file size, without any compression.
What is the WhatsApp video size limit?
WhatsApp compresses regular video messages to approximately 16 MB. For uncompressed videos, send as a Document — the limit is 2 GB. Status videos are limited to 30 seconds and are also heavily compressed.
What is the best format for WhatsApp photos?
Since WhatsApp converts all images to JPG anyway, send in JPG format at 1600 x 1200 resolution and 80% quality. This gives WhatsApp less room to degrade your image. For original quality, always send as a Document.
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