The Best Length for a TikTok Video in 2024

How Video Length Affects TikTok Performance 

TikTok’s video’s length matters because people will decide whether to watch it or scroll past it. There are two reasons why: 

Short Videos Do Well in Algorithms 

The system behind every ticktock favors clips that get many likes, shares, and comments, which tend to be faster. 

People like shorter stories; most prefer quick, funny snippets to long novels. 

Sharing Longer Videos Might not Work Well When Sharing 

Some viewers might miss out on its excellent parts if your video needs to be longer before they finish watching it. 

Different types of content require different durations; for example, funny sketches or dance challenges do better with shorter videos, while tutorials or explanations usually need more time. 

Nonetheless, remember that even though small films often win, longer ones could still rock if made correctly. 

Make sure yours meets these criteria: 

• Make it visually and audibly clear. 

• Give a narrative or valuable information. 

• End with a bang so viewers feel more satisfied and motivated to participate. 

In short, try to make your TikTok videos short and sweet if you want them to have a higher chance of succeeding. However, the fact is that every type of content calls for a specific approach; hence, test everything out and find what works best for both you and your fans. 

Limits to Follow When Searching for the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

One should follow the prescribed video length limits for the video platforms if one wants your video to be uploaded correctly on TikTok. Here is what you should know: 

Maximum video length 

A whole video on TikTok lasts for 60 seconds, which means that it can be one minute long. 



Recommended video length 

While the maximum video duration is 60 seconds, the recommended ideal time is much shorter. TikTok allows high quality uploads and its algorithm favors these videos, which suggests that videos should last between 10-15 seconds. Such duration helps capture viewers' attention and keeps them attentive. 

The Best Length For a TikTok Video Changes Over the Years 

In 2023, TikTok increased its limit on the videos it can accommodate to ten minutes. This choice has benefited those who want to share long videos, especially those who often create tutorial or vlog content. 

However, there might be better options for some videos. This is because videos with longer durations might not work well compared to shorter ones due to users’ attention spans and the algorithm’s preference for short videos. 

When creating TikTok videos, keep in mind video length limits and recommendations. Smaller clips tend to do better on social media platforms, but long ones can also be successful if they are exciting and meaningful to the audience. 

Also, you should optimize your video platform by practicing recommended video dimensions and file sizes to properly upload them to different devices. Following these rules, you will present a video prepared according to TikTok’s success principles. 

The Best Length For a TikTok Video 

The most effective TikTok video length in 2021 was up to seventeen seconds. However, by the end of the year, that figure had grown to twenty-four and thirty-one seconds. This is due to longer videos being promoted on the platform and long-form content performing well. 

User Preferences 

Initially, users preferred shorter videos from 11s to 17s. However, this platform pushes for longer videos, so user preference has followed suit. 

Data and Research 

According to studies, one out of four top-liked TikTok falls within the time limit given as ideal (21-34 seconds). Such duration is enough for telling stories or passing messages yet concise enough for users to get involved. 

Making your TikToks as short as possible is better. But when done correctly, there may be compelling reasons for creating elongated versions. However, extended versions must have a purpose, which must be entertaining while providing value to viewers. 

The Best Duration for a Small TikTok Video 

According to Buffer, the most appropriate time frame for a short TikTok video is about 10-15 seconds because such clips are brief but still capture ideas conveyed by their authors. 

Remember that no matter the circumstance, you can find yourself having too many details dragging on with no clear message. At times, getting straight through isn’t easy either. 

How To Get More Views And Engagement On Short Videos On TikTok 

Make Sure Your Visuals and Sounds are Clear 

The use of excellent visuals and audio is, therefore, without a doubt, a crucial factor that could keep viewers very attentive to make it an eye-catching video. To make it outstanding, eye-catching video should include vivid colors, imaginative camera angles, and filters. 

Add Captions 

While many TikTok users watch videos without sound on, it is still crucial that your video makes sense. Be brief and precise in your statements; their easy readability will significantly affect your caption. 

Use Trending Hashtags 

When you use trending hashtags in your video, more people will see them, resulting in high levels of engagement, among others. Find popular tags within your niche and include them in your caption when creating a new video. 

 
Add Effects and Filters 

Several effects and filters on Tiktok may make videos look more visually exciting. It is optional to go through all these effect /filter options simultaneously because there are so many, but it generally works for you. 

Experiment With Different Video Lengths 

Try out videos of varying lengths to understand what your audience prefers most. By trying different durations, you will know what makes them keep watching or returning for more. 

Conduct Data Analysis on Each Video 

Keep track of your videos’ performances. Assess the views, likes, and comments statistics to see if there is a pattern. Consider sticking with shorter videos if they turn out to be hits, and adjust your approach accordingly if longer ones are getting more love. 

Customize Your Videos for Your Viewers 

It is essential today to know whom you are targeting and their interests. Young people have short attention spans and might prefer shorter videos, while older people tend to watch longer ones. 

Narrate or Communicate a Message 

You must tell a story or convey a message that will deliver value to the viewer. Ensure your video has a clear purpose and effectively communicates the message. 

The Ideal Length for Long TikTok Videos 

TikTok allows up to 10 minutes per video, though it often favors those much briefer, as evidenced by its history of preference for brevity. 

For educational content, including how-to videos, formats can be slightly lengthened from 30-45 seconds, while comedy skits and other trend-based items may be best made between 10-20 seconds long. 

Tips on How to Maximize Engagement & Views on a Long TikTok Video 

Conciseness 

On TikTok, it is possible to create longer videos. Generally, viewers prefer shorter ones, with anything between 15 seconds and one minute considered optimal video length. However, when producing long videos, it is essential to make them engaging and ensure that audience attention stays strong. 

Audience Engagement Tip To Follow 

Create an intro hook in the first few moments of your video that centers around the central theme or element of interest that your video seeks. 

Make an Exciting Narrative 

Be it humor, education, or inspiration – make sure they capture all these values in their stories, thereby capturing audiences through fascinating stories, helpful tips, or simply entertaining media whose impression remains in the minds of viewers. 

Use TikTok Editing Tools 

Besides having various tools like soundtracks, effects, and filters, TikTok has multiple editing tools that can help improve your videos by adding additional value. 

Nonetheless, if you prefer shorter videos, it would be crucial to try various video lengths to see what works best for your viewers. For example, educational and how–to videos may have slightly longer formats ranging between 30-45 seconds. 

Post Regularly 

Consistency helps develop an audience and increases the chances of getting on people’s For You pages. 

Engage with Your Followers 

By responding to comments and interacting with one’s audience, you can attract a loyal fan base and raise engagement levels. 

Understanding What Makes a Good Video Length on TikTok 

These things should be considered when deciding how long you want your TikTok video to run: 

The Message of the Video 

The size of the video will depend on what kind of point you want to make. Feel free to take up more space if you have much to say. Just make sure that your video stays fun enough all through. 

Human Attention Span 

Remember, people’s attention spans are short nowadays, primarily online. Therefore, try not to make too lengthy videos if possible, but keep those sweet and concise so as not to lose interest. 

Finishing the Video Well 

The intention is for users to watch all the footage rather than just some parts. Is this length enough for my video? Consider whether this length serves its purpose in relating it while not leading folks hanging after watching this piece. 

Here are some factors that can help you decide on the ideal length of your TikTok Video 

Type of content 

Short videos work best for certain types of content, such as funny sketches and dance challenges; conversely, educational and how-to videos need longer for in-depth exploration. 

Engagement 

Shorter videos will likely be watched and engaged because they’re easily digestible. They, too, can share your work with other people who might like it. 

Storytelling 

Break the story into smaller parts instead of trying to fit everything into one long clip. This will ensure that viewers are kept on their toes and do not lose interest. 

In this way, you can make entertaining TikTok videos, no matter how short or long they may be. Keep experimenting with different formats until you find the most effective ones for yourself and your target viewers. 

Is it possible to consider user attention span when deciding on video length? 

Here’s how user attention spans should be factored in video durations on TikTok:  

User attention spans must also be a key consideration when deciding the preferred span of a TikTok video. Research shows that adults have an average concentration period of 8 seconds. Therefore, capturing brief attention spans and winning over audiences before they abandon your video for another is crucial if you want them to stay glued to the end. 

You must then know who your audience is and gain their trust so that their attention can be captured. What exactly does your video aim at? It would be best to tell them about it directly by clearly stating what is included in such footage. 

Moreover, it sets audience expectations from the outset of the TikTok video; hence, they will immediately know what they expect to see. While choosing an ideal duration for any given film, look at its content depicted. Look at its purposes and level of relatedness to potential audience members’ needs or interests in engagement. 

The shorter clips usually do better than the longest ones, but other longer videos can make sense. For a longer video production and upload to be successful, it must have a purpose, engage the audience, and lead in value addition. The nature of your content should also determine its length accordingly. 

For example, funny sketches and dance challenges work well with shorter videos; educational and how-to videos often benefit from longer ones where you can go into more detail on more significant topics. 

Lastly, long TikTok videos should be divided into smaller segments or chapters so that viewers can have some breaks, digest the information given, and feel safe. 

How to Optimize Your TikTok Videos Using Video Editing and Optimization for the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

To make sure that your TikTok upload quality is great on their platform, you need to optimize them. They’re the following: 

Screen Size and Quality 

TikTok suggests that the optimal resolution for its clips is 1080 pixels by 1920 pixels with an aspect ratio of 9:16 in mind to fill up most of the available screen space. 

The Size of Your File 

15MB is an upper limit for uploading a video over TikTok. Therefore, this mandates compressing your footage to be small enough to load here. 

Here are some extra tips that could come in handy when you get the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

Use Clear Visuals and Sound 

Considering this is a visual platform, ensure you use high-quality visuals and clear sound. 

Add Subtitles 

Because many people watch these clips without sound on, make sure your message comes through even if they can’t listen. 

Hashtags 

When deciding what hashtags should be included in posts, try looking at trending hashtags, which will make a particular post popular, increasing engagement. 

Add Effects and Filters 

TikTok offers several effects and filters to pick one best suited for your video. 

Optimizing your TikTok videos ensures they appear at their best, reaching the largest possible audience. You should follow the recommended video dimensions and file size, use clear visuals and sound, and add captions or hashtags while distinguishing them from other effects. 

Strategies for Choosing the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

When it comes to determining how long your tiktok videos should be, below are some strategies that you can use to help you find the perfect fit: 

Experimentation 

Various video lengths have been tried to establish which best suits the taste of viewers. Therefore, by trying different time durations, you will identify what retains viewers’ attention through experimentation. 

Data Analysis 

Keep an eye on how your videos are performing. Check out views, likes, comments-anything. Is there any pattern? It may be advisable to stick with shorter videos if they seem popular. However, this could change if more love is shown towards longer ones. 

Following Trends 

Take a peek at what's working for others in your corner of TikTok. If successful videos in your niche tend to be of a certain length, then consider that as a starting point for yours. 

Consider the Platform 

TikTok is a quick platform where users scroll past content rapidly. This is why shorter performances work better since they attract people’s attention more often than not; these people stay engaged without doubt. Only if it brings them value or is relatable will lengthy performances succeed. 

Tailor to Your Audience 

Consider the age group of individuals who consume your content and their interests. Younger audiences may have shorter attention spans and prefer short clips, while older ones may be open to watching longer ones. 

Think About the Content-Type 

Different types of content require different video lengths. For example, when doing funny sketches or dance challenges, one might opt for shorter videos as longer ones could be used to educate or provide how-to guides. 

Tell a Story 

The length of the video is essential when telling stories or passing a message. Thus, you want to have enough time to get your point across while keeping their concentration. 

Edit for Impact 

Edit down your video so that every second matters; if possible, cut out all parts that are not impactful. Thus, this will help to keep viewers engaged and maintain interest. 

By considering these factors, you can choose the optimal length of your TikTok Videos and create content that is relatable to your audience. Don’t forget about experimenting with data analysis on trends until you identify what’s good for you and your followers. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

Avoid common mistakes impacting your content's engagement quality when making long-form video content. Some of these mistakes include: 

Lack of planning: Don’t create lengthy, unstructured videos that may bore the audience by planning before shooting any footage. 

Poor sound quality: Poor sound quality can result in viewer disengagement. It's essential to ensure clear and balanced audio throughout the video. 

Insufficient or poor lighting: For better visual quality, there should be consistent lighting to avoid distracting or boring the viewer (s). 

Information overload: A video with too much information can become lengthy and complicated for viewers to grasp. One must maintain a balance in the information they present. 

Not editing/optimizing: Please edit and optimize videos to avoid unpolished, unprofessional, and long-lasting videos that may not meet your target audience's expectations. 

Do not maintain a good pace: Avoiding overly long or slow segments will keep your video moving correctly. This will help you retain viewer engagement. 

Wrong framing of a subject: Not doing proper framing may affect how visually appealing your video is and how well its message comes across. Framing skills can be improved by understanding and using the rule of thirds. 

By avoiding these common errors, you can make longer, more engaging, informative, and visually exciting videos to enhance user experience on TikTok and other online platforms. 

Final words on the Best Length For a TikTok Video 

Understanding TikTok’s relationship between video length and performance is crucial to maximizing content potential. These aspects are critical factors for the customization of your videos to fit into TikTok algorithm. However, it does not mean that longer ones cannot do well. If people’s mindset about creating them changes, they know what other users want. If you need assistance creating compelling TikTok videos for yourself or a business, reach out to us so we can plan together how best to craft a  TikTok strategy that works for you.