Threads Image Sizes & Dimensions 2026
Complete specification guide for Meta's Threads app. Post images, videos, carousels, and profile pictures. Updated for 2026.
Quick Reference
Post Image Sizes
Portrait (Recommended)
Vertical Full Screen
Square
Landscape
Video Specifications
Portrait Video (Recommended)
Landscape Video
Profile & Other Content
Profile Picture
Link Preview Image
Carousel Posts
Key Features & Limitations
Flexible Aspect Ratios
Unlike some platforms, Threads doesn't enforce strict aspect ratio rules. The app displays images without cropping, keeping original dimensions intact. However, certain ratios perform better:
- Best: 4:5 portrait (1080×1350) for maximum feed visibility
- Good: 9:16 vertical (1080×1920) for full-screen impact
- Safe: 1:1 square (1080×1080) for versatility
- Acceptable: 1.91:1 landscape (1200×628) but less effective
Character Limit
Threads posts can contain up to 500 characters of text. This is significantly longer than Twitter/X (280 characters) but shorter than Instagram captions (2,200 characters).
Media Limits
- Images: Up to 10 per post (carousel)
- Videos: 1 video per post, up to 5 minutes long, max 500 MB
- Mix: Cannot mix images and videos in same post (unlike Instagram)
No Direct Messaging
As of 2026, Threads still doesn't support DMs. All communication happens through public posts and replies. This makes Threads more conversational and less private than Instagram.
Instagram Integration
Threads is deeply integrated with Instagram. Your profile picture, username, and verification status carry over from Instagram. You can share Threads posts directly to Instagram Stories.
Best Practices for Threads
Mobile-First Content
Threads is exclusively mobile. Design all content for vertical viewing on smartphones. Portrait and square images perform best. Avoid small text that's hard to read on phones.
Authentic & Conversational
Threads favors casual, authentic conversation over highly polished content. Behind-the-scenes photos, quick thoughts, and real-time updates perform well. Think Twitter-style engagement.
Engage in Replies
The algorithm rewards engagement. Respond to comments and participate in other threads. Unlike Instagram, Threads is built for back-and-forth conversation.
Use Hashtags Sparingly
Threads doesn't emphasize hashtags like Instagram does. Use 1-2 relevant tags maximum. Focus on compelling captions and visuals instead of hashtag strategies.
Post Frequently
Threads is fast-paced. Multiple posts per day is normal and encouraged. Don't overthink—share thoughts, updates, and content as they happen.
Video First
Video content gets prioritized in the algorithm. Short vertical videos (under 60 seconds) generate the most engagement. Repurpose Reels content for Threads.
High-Quality Images
Always use images at least 1080px wide. Low-resolution or blurry images will hurt engagement. Threads displays images uncropped, so quality matters more than on other platforms.
Link Strategically
Unlike Twitter, Threads doesn't penalize links in posts. Share freely, but ensure your link preview images (1200×600) look professional using proper Open Graph tags.
Cross-Post from Instagram
Easily share Threads posts to Instagram Stories with one tap. This drives traffic between platforms and builds your presence on both Meta properties simultaneously.
Threads vs Instagram vs Twitter/X
How Threads Differs
| Feature | Threads | Twitter/X | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Text Limit | 500 characters | 2,200 characters | 280 characters (4,000 Premium) |
| Video Length | 5 minutes | 90 sec (Reels), 60 min (Feed) | 2:20 min (10 min Premium) |
| Images Per Post | Up to 10 | Up to 10 | Up to 4 |
| Preferred Ratio | 4:5 portrait, 9:16 vertical | 4:5 portrait, 9:16 Reels | 16:9 landscape, 1:1 square |
| DMs | No | Yes | Yes |
| Link Sharing | No penalty | Minimal penalty | No penalty |
Content Strategy Implications
Use Threads for: Real-time updates, casual engagement, community building, text-heavy posts with visual support, quick thoughts and reactions.
Use Instagram for: Highly polished visuals, long-form video (Reels), shopping/commerce, aesthetic brand building, private conversations (DMs).
Use Twitter/X for: Breaking news, real-time commentary, text-focused content, concise updates, professional networking.