Getting your political ad creative sizes right is a big deal for 2026. It's not just about making things look good; it's about making sure your message actually gets seen and makes an impact. Platforms keep changing how they show content, and if your ads aren't sized correctly, they can end up looking bad or even getting cut off. This guide breaks down what you need to know for all the major spots where you'll be running ads, so your campaign doesn't miss a beat.

Key Takeaways

• For Facebook and Instagram feeds, stick with 1080x1350 (4:5) for the best mobile view, or use 1080x1080 (1:1) for general use.

• Stories and Reels across Facebook and Instagram need the full vertical screen: 1080x1920 (9:16).

• Snapchat ads also favor the vertical 1080x1920 (9:16) format, keeping things mobile-first and engaging.

• Messenger ads work best at 1200x628 (1.91:1), but keep visuals simple as they appear small.

• Right Column ads on desktop are strictly 1:1 (1080x1080), and text needs to be clear because the space is tiny.

Facebook Feed

When you're putting together ads for the Facebook Feed, you've got a few options for how your visuals show up. These ads pop up right in people's news feeds, mixed in with posts from friends and pages they follow, so they really need to grab attention.

The most common formats are single images or videos. For images, Facebook likes a few different aspect ratios. You can go with a square (1:1) or a vertical rectangle (4:5). The recommended resolution for a square image is 1440x1440 pixels, and for the 4:5 ratio, it's 1440x1800 pixels. While Facebook will scale down smaller images, sticking to these recommended sizes usually gives you the best results. Just remember, if you're using the 4:5 ratio, it might get cropped on desktop, so keep the important stuff centered.

Here's a quick rundown of image specs:

For videos, the specs are a bit more flexible. You can use landscape (1.91:1), vertical (9:16), or square (1:1) formats. The minimum resolution is 1080x1080 pixels. Videos can be up to 60 minutes long, but shorter, punchier videos often perform better in the feed. Make sure your video is in MP4 or MOV format and uses H.264 compression.

Don't forget about the text that goes with your ad. The headline has a short limit of 27 characters, and the primary text should be between 50 and 150 characters. Keep it concise and clear to get your message across quickly as people scroll.

Also, keep in mind that Facebook ads can sometimes be shown across both Facebook and Instagram. If you're running a campaign that targets both, using a square (1:1) image or video is often the safest bet, as it's less likely to be cropped on different placements.

Instagram Stories

Alright, let's talk Instagram Stories. These are those full-screen, vertical ads that pop up between people's regular Stories. They're super popular because they grab attention right away, you know? People are already in that quick-swipe mode, so if your ad is good, it really stands out.

The key here is to make it look native to the platform. Think vertical, full-screen, and engaging. You've got a few options for how you present your creative.

Here are the specs you'll want to keep in mind:

• Recommended Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels. This is the sweet spot for making sure your ad looks sharp on most devices.

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16. This is the standard vertical format for Stories.

• Minimum Width: 500 pixels. While 1080 is recommended, this is the absolute minimum.

• File Types: JPG or PNG are your best bets for images.

• File Size: Keep it under 30MB. Bigger files can slow things down and might not upload properly.

A really important tip is to think about the 'safe zones'. You know how there's a profile picture and sometimes a call-to-action button at the bottom? You don't want your main message or logo getting covered up. Try to keep important text and visuals away from the very top and bottom edges. Leaving about 14% (around 250 pixels) at the top and 20% (about 340 pixels) at the bottom free of critical elements is a good rule of thumb. This way, your message gets seen loud and clear.

So, basically, make it vertical, make it look good, and give it some breathing room at the top and bottom. Easy enough, right?

Facebook Stories

Alright, let's talk about Facebook Stories ads. These are those quick, full-screen ads that pop up between user stories, kind of like a mini-commercial break. They disappear after 24 hours, so they're great for time-sensitive promotions or just keeping your brand top-of-mind.

The key here is vertical. Think 9:16 aspect ratio, just like you're probably used to for Instagram Stories. This means your creative needs to fill the whole screen, from top to bottom. It's an immersive format, and when done right, it can really grab attention.

Here are the basic specs you'll want to keep in mind:

• Resolution: Aim for 1080 x 1920 pixels. This gives you a nice, crisp image or video.

• File Types: For images, stick with JPG or PNG. For videos, MP4, MOV, or even a GIF can work.

• Video Length: You can go up to 2 minutes, but honestly, shorter is usually better for Stories. Think 15 seconds or less for maximum impact.

• Safe Zones: Facebook recommends keeping important text and logos within the central 1080 x 1420 pixels. This way, they won't get cut off by interface elements or the call-to-action button.

Remember, Facebook Stories ads can also show up in Messenger Stories. While the core specs are the same, Messenger might have slightly different display areas, so it's always a good idea to test your creative across both.

When you're designing, try to make your ad feel native to the Stories experience. People are used to seeing quick, engaging content here. Avoid anything that feels too corporate or overly polished, unless that's your brand's specific vibe. Think about using motion, sound (if appropriate), and a clear call to action. You can find more details on Facebook ad sizes to make sure everything lines up perfectly.

Instagram Reels

Instagram Reels are short, snappy videos that have become a huge part of how people discover new content on the platform. When you're creating ads for Reels, think vertical. The ideal size is 1080 pixels wide by 1920 pixels tall, which gives you that full-screen, immersive feel. This 9:16 aspect ratio is key for making sure your ad looks good and doesn't get cut off.

When designing your Reel ads, remember that users often watch with sound on, so make sure your audio is just as engaging as your visuals. It's also a good idea to keep important text and logos within the central area of the screen. This is because elements like your profile icon or call-to-action buttons might cover up parts of the video, especially near the bottom. A good rule of thumb is to keep key information within the middle 80% of the frame.

Here are some technical specs to keep in mind:

• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels

• Aspect Ratio: 9:16

• File Size: Up to 4 GB (though smaller is usually better for faster loading)

• Video Format: MP4 or MOV

Think about using Reels to show off products in action, share quick tips, or give a behind-the-scenes look at your brand. Because they blend in with organic content, they can feel less like a traditional ad and more like something users actually want to watch. Just make sure your video resolution is at least 720 pixels to meet the minimum requirements for good viewing. You can find more details on video specs on the Meta for Creators site.

Remember that the cover image you choose for your Reel ad is super important. It's the first thing people see on your profile grid and in the Reels tab, so make it eye-catching to encourage clicks.

Facebook Reels

Alright, let's talk about Facebook Reels ads. These are those short, vertical videos you see mixed in with content from creators. Meta is really pushing video, and Reels are a big part of that. Think of it as a way to show off what your brand is all about in a quick, engaging format.

The key here is to make your ad feel like native content, not just another interruption. Users are already in a scrolling mindset, so you've got to grab their attention fast. Since sound is on by default for Reels, using audio effectively can make a big difference.

Here are the basic specs to keep in mind:

• Dimensions: 1080 x 2560 pixels (that's a 9:16 ratio).

• File Type: MP4, MOV, or GIF are your go-to options.

• Max File Size: You can go up to 4 GB, which is pretty generous.

• Video Length: While there's no strict maximum, shorter is usually better for engagement. Aim for something that gets to the point quickly.

When you're designing, remember that Facebook's interface elements will cover some of your screen. You'll want to keep important stuff, like your logo or call-to-action, away from the very top and bottom. Meta suggests leaving about 14% at the top and 35% at the bottom clear.

Think about the first three seconds of your Reel ad. That's your window to hook someone. If they don't get it or aren't interested right away, they're just going to keep scrolling. Make it count!

Also, don't forget about text. You've got about 40 characters for your primary text and 55 for your headline. Keep it concise and clear. And while captions aren't mandatory, they're a good idea since not everyone watches with sound on, even though it's the default.

Snapchat Stories

Snapchat Stories are all about that quick, vertical, full-screen experience. Think of it as a digital billboard that disappears after 24 hours, so you gotta make your ad count while it's up.

The key here is to go vertical, full-screen, and keep it snappy. Users are swiping through these pretty fast, often while on the go, so your ad needs to grab their attention immediately. It's a really immersive format because it takes over the whole phone screen.

Here are the specs you'll want to keep in mind:

• Resolution: 1080 x 1920 pixels is the standard. This ensures your ad looks sharp on most devices.

• Aspect Ratio: Stick to 9:16. This is the classic vertical format that Snapchat is built on.

• File Types: For images, JPG or PNG work best. For videos, MP4 or MOV are your go-to options.

• Video Length: Keep your videos short and sweet. While Snapchat allows up to 10 seconds for ads, shorter is often better to keep viewers engaged.

Remember, Snapchat's audience tends to be younger and they expect content that feels native to the platform – think fun, authentic, and maybe a little playful. Don't just slap a regular ad onto Stories; make it feel like it belongs.

When you're designing, try to keep important text and logos away from the very top and bottom edges. Snapchat sometimes overlays things like usernames or buttons there, and you don't want your message getting cut off. It's a good idea to leave a little breathing room, maybe around 250 pixels from the top and 340 from the bottom, just to be safe.

Messenger Ads

Messenger ads are a bit different because people are usually in a conversational mindset when they see them. They pop up in the Messenger inbox, so you want your ad to feel natural, not like a jarring interruption.

The recommended size for Messenger ads is 1200 by 628 pixels, which is a standard horizontal format. It's not super wide, but it gives you enough space to get your point across. You can go as small as 600 by 314 pixels, but honestly, things can get pretty cramped.

Here's a quick rundown of the specs:

• Recommended Size: 1200 x 628 pixels (1.91:1 ratio)

• Minimum Size: 600 x 314 pixels

• File Types: JPG, PNG

• Max File Size: 30MB

• Headline Character Limit: 20 characters (no description field)

When you're designing for Messenger, think about keeping things simple and bold. Since the ad appears in a list of messages, a strong image or graphic really helps it stand out. It's a good idea to put your main message right on the image itself. Testing out bright colors can also make your ad pop in the inbox. Remember, people are there to chat, so make your ad easy to understand at a glance.

Marketplace Ads

Alright, let's talk about Facebook Marketplace ads. This is a pretty neat spot to get your products in front of people who are actively looking to buy stuff. Think of it like a digital flea market or classifieds section, but with a massive audience.

The key here is to be direct and show off your product. Since these ads pop up right alongside organic listings, they need to feel natural. People are there to shop, so your ad should make it super easy for them to see what you're selling and how much it costs.

Here are the basic specs you'll want to keep in mind:

• Image Size: Aim for 1080 x 1080 pixels. This square format works well across most devices.

• File Types: Stick to JPG or PNG. Keep it simple.

• File Size: Don't go over 30MB. Nobody likes a slow-loading ad.

• Text Limits: You get a headline (up to 40 characters), primary text (125 characters), and a description (30 characters). Make every character count!

Because users on Marketplace often have a strong intent to purchase, your creative should highlight the product clearly. Including pricing information directly in the ad can also be a big plus, as it answers a key question upfront for shoppers.

When you're designing your ad, remember that the visuals are super important. Use clear, appealing photos of your product. If you're selling something, show it off from its best angle. People are scrolling through listings, so yours needs to catch their eye quickly. It's all about making that connection with a buyer who's ready to make a move.

Audience Network

Alright, let's talk about the Audience Network. Think of it as Facebook and Instagram's way of letting your ads show up in places outside of their main apps. We're talking about other websites and mobile apps that partner with Meta. It's a pretty neat way to reach people who might not be scrolling through your feed right at that moment, but are still browsing online.

This placement is particularly good for retargeting. You know, showing ads for that thing someone looked at on your website but didn't buy? Audience Network can do that. It's like a gentle nudge, reminding them about what they liked.

Here are some of the specs you'll want to keep in mind:

• File Types: MP4, MOV, or GIF are your go-to options.

• Aspect Ratio: Aim for 9:16. This is that tall, vertical format.

• Resolution: A minimum of 1080 x 1080 pixels is usually the baseline.

• Video Length: You've got up to 2 minutes, but shorter is often better for keeping attention.

• Sound: It's optional, but people do sometimes turn sound on, so it's worth considering.

Remember, the Audience Network is a broad space. While it offers a wider reach, the context of where your ad appears can vary a lot. Keep your creative clear and direct, as you might not have the same control over the surrounding content as you do within Facebook or Instagram itself.

It's a bit different from the main feeds, so testing is key here. See how your ads perform across these different apps and sites to figure out what really clicks with your audience.

Right Column Ads

Right Column ads are a bit of a throwback, really. They only show up on desktop, specifically on the right side of Facebook pages. So, if your audience is mostly on their phones, this isn't the place for you. Keep your creative simple and clear because the ad space is pretty small.

Here's what you need to know:

• Image Size: While you can upload a 1080x1080 pixel image (that's a 1:1 ratio), it displays much smaller. Think about what you're putting in there – tiny text or intricate details will just get lost.

• Format: It's images only, no videos here. So, make sure your static image is doing all the heavy lifting.

• Text: You get a headline, but it's capped at 40 characters. Get straight to the point.

Because these ads are so small and only on desktop, they're not as prominent as other placements. It's good to check out the Facebook ad size guidelines to make sure your image looks decent even when shrunk down. You're basically aiming for something that catches the eye quickly without being overwhelming. It's a good spot for simple brand awareness if you know your users are on desktop.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it. Keeping up with all these different ad sizes can feel like a lot, I know. It’s easy to just slap something together and hope for the best, but honestly, that rarely works out. When your ads look right, they just perform better. People notice them more, and they seem more trustworthy. This guide should make it a bit easier to get things looking sharp across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and all the other places. Just remember to check back often because these platforms love to change things up. Getting the size right is a small step, but it makes a big difference in how your message lands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the right sizes for ads so important?

Using the correct sizes for your ads is super important because it makes your content look its best. When sizes are right, your pictures are clear, text isn't cut off, and videos look great. This makes your brand seem more professional and helps people pay more attention to your ads.

Are Facebook and Meta ad sizes the same?

Yes, they are exactly the same! Facebook changed its name to Meta, but all the technical stuff for ads stayed the same. So, if you knew the old Facebook ad sizes, they still work for Meta ads.

What's the best size for ads on Facebook's main feed?

For ads in the main Facebook feed, a vertical size called 4:5 (which is 1080 pixels wide by 1350 pixels tall) usually works the best. It takes up more space on phones, so more people see it and tend to interact with it more. A square size (1080x1080) is also a good all-around choice.

How can I stop my Facebook ads from looking blurry?

To avoid blurry ads, always upload your images with a higher resolution than needed, like 1440x1440 pixels even if 1080x1080 is the required size. Also, use clear file types like PNG for graphics with text and high-quality JPGs for photos. Never try to make small pictures bigger, as they will always look bad.

Do I need different ad sizes for Instagram compared to Facebook?

Nope, Instagram uses the same ad sizes as Facebook. A square picture (1080x1080) will look the same on both platforms' feeds. For Stories and Reels, the size is 1080x1920 on both Instagram and Facebook. The trick is to make sure your ad looks good in each spot it might show up.

Should I use Automatic Placements for my ads?

While Automatic Placements can be easy, it's often better to choose specific placements yourself. This lets you upload different versions of your ad that are perfectly sized for each spot, like Feed, Stories, or Reels. This way, your ad always looks its best and works the hardest for you.