The Best Export Settings for WhatsApp Status Videos

WhatsApp Status lets you share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. But Status has its own constraints: videos are limited to 30 seconds, and they're displayed in a vertical 9:16 aspect ratio. If you're exporting from a video editor or camera that shoots in 16:9, you'll need to resize, trim, and compress. Here's how to get the best results for WhatsApp Status.

WhatsApp Status Video Specs

WhatsApp Status supports videos up to 30 seconds. The recommended resolution is 1080x1920 (portrait) or 720x1280 for smaller file sizes. WhatsApp will compress uploads further, but starting with an optimized file gives you more control. Aim for a file size under 16 MB to avoid upload issues—typically 500 KB to 2 MB per second of video works well.

Aspect Ratio and Cropping

If your source is landscape (16:9), you have two options: crop to the center 9:16 or add letterboxing. For Status, cropping usually looks better—full-width video is more engaging than a tiny box in the middle. Use Media Shrinker's resolution options to output 720p or 1080p in portrait. If your video is already portrait, you're good to go.

Target File Size for 30 Seconds

For a 30-second Status video at 720p, a target of 8–15 MB is reasonable. That gives you roughly 250–500 kbps video bitrate, which holds up well for casual content. If you're sharing something with lots of motion or detail, lean toward 15 MB. For simple talking-head or static content, 8 MB is fine. Media Shrinker's quality slider lets you preview before you compress.

Format and Compatibility

WhatsApp accepts MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio. Media Shrinker outputs exactly that—no conversion needed. Just compress, download, and upload to Status. Your video will look crisp on your contacts' phones and disappear after 24 hours as intended.