Compress video for WhatsApp
Send a long clip on mobile data without waiting forever, and without WhatsApp mangling it. Squeeze it to a size you choose, in MP4 that every phone plays.
WhatsApp video size limit (27 September 2026)
2 GB per file. The 2 GB cap applies to files. Videos sent as media (not as a document) are recompressed by WhatsApp itself, so a smaller file you made yourself keeps more control over quality.
Source: WhatsApp blog: "Reactions, 2GB File Sharing, 512 Groups". WhatsApp raised the file cap from 100 MB to 2 GB; limits can change.
Media or document?
| Send as media (gallery) | Send as document | |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Recompressed by WhatsApp | Exactly your file |
| Plays inline | Yes | After download |
| Best for | Quick sharing | Keeping the quality you chose |
Good settings for WhatsApp
- 720p, H.264, 30 fps looks sharp on a phone and keeps the file small.
- 16 MB is a friendly size for mobile data; family on slow connections will thank you.
- Voice-only audio? 64 kbps is enough for speech and saves room for the picture.
Questions people ask
What is WhatsApp's video size limit?
WhatsApp allows files up to 2 GB. Videos sent the normal way (as media) are recompressed by WhatsApp to a lower resolution; sending as a document keeps the original file but the recipient has to download it to watch.
Why compress it myself if WhatsApp compresses anyway?
WhatsApp's own compression is aggressive and you can't control it. Making a smaller, well-encoded file first means faster sending on mobile data, and if you send it as a document it arrives exactly as you made it.
Which format plays for everyone on WhatsApp?
MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio. It plays on every Android and iPhone. Avoid H.265 or WebM if you are not sure what phone the recipient has.
How long can a WhatsApp Status video be?
Status videos have long been capped at a short length per clip (WhatsApp has adjusted it over time), so trim to the part you want to post.