Short Summary
Reddit is a place where conversation meets community, and when done right, video content can thrive. But posting videos here isn't as intuitive as it is on other platforms. If you’ve ever sat there staring at the “create post” screen wondering what to do next, you’re not alone. This detailed guide will help you understand Reddit’s video setup and walk you through the process from start to finish — with real examples and no tech jargon.
Understanding Reddit's Video Requirements
Before you dive into uploading, it’s worth taking a second to learn what Reddit expects from your video files. Reddit has its own way of handling media, and ignoring these small rules can lead to your content being rejected or looking broken.
Supported Video Formats
Reddit works best with videos in MP4 format. That means:
- Your video should be encoded in H.264 for visuals and AAC for sound.
- Anything outside that might still upload, but could cause playback issues or fail altogether.
If you’re using a smartphone or any modern editor, chances are your output will already be compliant. Still, it's always good to double-check — especially if you're editing or compressing files manually.
Maximum Size and Length
Here are the key limitations:
- Your video should not exceed 1 GB in size.
- Length-wise, keep it under 15 minutes.
- Optimal resolution is between 480p and 1080p — higher than that is unnecessary.
Heavy files not only slow down uploads but also increase the chance of Reddit rejecting them during processing. Keep things lightweight and to the point.
Upload Videos to Reddit: Step-by-Step Guides
Using Reddit on Desktop:
- Open your browser and sign into Reddit.
- Navigate to the subreddit you’d like to post in.
- Click on “Create Post” — usually at the top of the page.
- Choose “Image & Video” as your post type.
- Upload your MP4 file either by dragging it in or selecting it from your device.
- Write a headline that’s short but attention-grabbing.
- Add any optional tags or flair, depending on the subreddit’s rules.
- Hit “Post” and you’re live.
Using the Reddit Mobile App:
- Launch the app and log in to your account.
- Tap the big "+" button usually found at the bottom.
- Choose “Video” as the content type.
- Select your video clip from your gallery.
- Pick a subreddit, write a caption or headline, and press "Post".
Important: Some subreddits block video uploads or require a minimum karma level to post. Always check their posting guidelines before sharing your video content.
Troubleshooting Common Reddit Video Upload Issues
Even if you follow all the steps, things don’t always go smoothly. If something’s off, here are a few ways to fix it:
Issue: Video stuck during upload
- Try switching from mobile data to Wi-Fi.
- Re-export your clip using standard settings (720p, H.264, AAC).
- Clear cache or restart your app/browser.
Issue: Video uploaded but won’t play
- Wait a few minutes. Reddit often takes time to process uploads.
- If it still won’t work, try trimming the video and re-uploading.
- Avoid using odd file names or special characters.
Issue: “Unsupported format” error
- Double-check your file extension — it should end in .mp4
- Use a basic converter tool if your file was saved in .mov or another format.
Enhancing Your Reddit Video Posts
Once your video is up, it’s time to give it some traction. Here's how to increase visibility:
- Choose a subreddit where your topic naturally fits.
- Write a title that sparks curiosity, humor, or emotion.
- If possible, include a brief text body explaining why you’re sharing it.
- Reply to early comments. This keeps your post active and visible.
- Use relevant tags or flairs if the community requires them.
- Cross-post to related subreddits if allowed — it boosts reach organically.
Should You Use Reddit Ads?
For creators or agencies looking for OnlyFans models, product launches, or community growth, Reddit Ads can be a powerful tool. You can run targeted campaigns directly to niche communities. But they’re not necessary for every use case. If you’re just trying to grow organically, smart posting and solid engagement are often more effective.
Bottom Line
Reddit is a unique platform where smart, thoughtful video content can really shine. By following these proven strategies for promoting your content, staying within Reddit's technical requirements, and participating in the community, your posts have the potential to gain real visibility — and possibly even go viral.
Don’t aim for perfection. Aim for connection.