Blurry uploads usually come from the export settings, the upload connection or a hidden app setting. Fix all three.
Export settings that work everywhere
| Setting | Use |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080 × 1920 (vertical) |
| Frame rate | Same as your footage (24, 25, 30 or 60). Don't convert. |
| Container and codec | MP4, H.264, High Profile |
| Audio | AAC, 48 kHz |
| Bitrate (YouTube's official guide, 1080p) | SDR 8 Mbps at 24–30 fps, 12 Mbps at 48–60 fps. HDR 10 or 15 Mbps. 4K SDR 35–45 Mbps (30 fps) or 53–68 Mbps (60 fps). |
Platform limits to know
- Instagram (API): 23–60 fps, max 1920 px wide, video bitrate up to 25 Mbps, audio 128 kbps, files up to 300 MB through schedulers. Going over the limit doesn't add quality; Instagram re-compresses it anyway.
- TikTok (API): 23–60 fps, H.264 recommended, files up to 4 GB.
HDR caveat: Phones often record HDR by default. Some apps tone-map HDR differently, and the result can look washed out or over-bright on other people's screens. If your colours look wrong after posting, export in SDR (Rec.709) instead. This is general practice, not an official platform rule.
Upload settings
- Instagram: In the app, open Settings → Data usage and media quality and turn on Upload at highest quality. Older reports say it's off by default. Menu names may differ slightly on your app.
- TikTok: Look for an HD or high-quality upload toggle on the post screen, and turn Data Saver off (the exact toggle name) Check in-app.
- Everywhere: Upload over Wi-Fi, from the original file. Don't send it through WhatsApp or AirDrop "compatibility" first.