Limits and SizesYouTube Help says that the standard aspect ratio for YouTube on a computer is 16:9, and that the player adapts to the size of each video. For the default 16:9 ratio it lists these sizes to encode at:
| Name | Size |
|---|---|
| 4320p (8K) | 7680 x 4320 |
| 2160p (4K) | 3840 x 2160 |
| 1440p (2K) | 2560 x 1440 |
| 1080p (HD) | 1920 x 1080 |
| 720p (HD) | 1280 x 720 |
| 480p (SD) | 854 x 480 |
| 360p (SD) | 640 x 360 |
| 240p (SD) | 426 x 240 |
The page adds that YouTube may add padding around vertical (9:16) videos on computer browsers, and advises you not to add black bars or padding to your own video, because it stops the player fitting the video. It also notes that since 2022 YouTube has been removing support for playback between 4K and 8K, for example 5K.
Read on 14 November 2026 at support.google.com/youtube/answer/6375112. Apps can change a limit without notice; check the app before an important post.
Which to use
Most phone videos are 1080p and that is a good default. Keep your video in its natural shape: do not add bars to turn a vertical video into a wide one.
Questions people ask
Which resolution should I use?
Most phone videos are 1080p, which is on the list. Keep the original shape of your video.
Should I add black bars to a vertical video?
YouTube advises against adding padding or bars to your video, because it stops the player fitting the video.