Choosing the Right Video Format for Maximum Reach

‍

Social media video continues to dominate digital marketing — and in 2026, it’s more essential than ever for brands to create videos that stop the scroll. But with so many platforms, styles, and trends to keep up with, knowing which video formats work best can make or break your strategy.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best video formats for social media in 2026, what’s changed from previous years, and how to make your content stand out.

‍

What Do We Mean by “Video Formats”?

When we talk about video formats for social media, we’re really referring to two things:

• Technical format – the shape and size of your video (like vertical 9:16 for TikTok or horizontal 16:9 for YouTube).
• Content format – the style or type of video you create (like tutorials, product demos, or storytelling).

In 2026, both aspects matter more than ever — social media algorithms now prioritise videos that are native to their platform and feel authentic, engaging, and watchable in just a few seconds.

‍

The Most Effective Social Media Video Formats in 2026

1. Short-Form Videos

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts continue to dominate. These videos — typically under 60 seconds — are perfect for quick engagement.

Trends in 2026 focus on authenticity, storytelling, and fast pacing over polished, ad-style production.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 9:16 (Vertical) – ideal for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts.
• 1:1 (Square) – works well on Facebook and Instagram feeds.

‍

2. How-To & Tutorial Videos

Educational content remains one of the most watched and shared video types online. Quick tutorials, demos, and “how-to” clips build trust and establish expertise.

These work brilliantly across YouTube, Pinterest, and even LinkedIn, especially when they deliver bite-sized value.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 16:9 (Horizontal) – perfect for YouTube and LinkedIn.
• 9:16 (Vertical) – great for quick, mobile-friendly tutorials on Reels or TikTok.

‍

3. Storytelling & Brand Story Videos

In 2026, brands that tell why they do what they do — not just what they sell — build stronger emotional connections.

Brand story videos perform well across Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, helping audiences connect with your mission and values.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 16:9 (Horizontal) – ideal for longer storytelling on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
• 9:16 (Vertical) – can be adapted for Reels and Stories to reach mobile audiences.

‍

4. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Videos

Audiences love seeing what happens behind the curtain. BTS content shows authenticity, teamwork, and creativity, helping humanise your brand.

It’s perfect for Reels, Stories, and TikTok — and great for building loyalty.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 9:16 (Vertical) – works best for Stories, Reels, and TikTok.
• 1:1 (Square) – good for feed posts on Instagram or Facebook.

‍

5. Educational & Explainer Videos

Explainers and educational videos simplify complex ideas in engaging ways. Using animation, graphics, or clear storytelling, these videos perform strongly on YouTube and LinkedIn, helping establish thought leadership in your industry.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 16:9 (Horizontal) – the standard for YouTube and LinkedIn.
• 1:1 (Square) – better for feeds where users scroll quickly.

‍

6. Product Demo Videos

When it comes to influencing purchase decisions, product demos remain essential. In 2026, the focus is on real-world use and benefit-driven storytelling, rather than pure product features.

These work best across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook Ads.

Best Aspect Ratio:

• 16:9 (Horizontal) – great for YouTube and website embeds.
• 9:16 (Vertical) – ideal for mobile-first content on Reels, TikTok, and Ads.

See an example of one of our BTS Social media videos.

‍