What are YouTube Shorts?
YouTube Shorts are vertical, short-form videos (up to 60 seconds) designed for mobile viewing. They use a 9:16 aspect ratio and feature their own dedicated player with unique UI overlays.
Technical Specifications:
- Aspect Ratio: 9:16 (vertical)
- Resolution: 1080×1920px (recommended)
- Duration: Up to 60 seconds
- File Format: MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, 3GPP, MPEG, WebM
- Max File Size: 256GB (or 12 hours)
YouTube Shorts Safe Zone Dimensions
Based on the actual YouTube Shorts app interface, here are the critical safe zone measurements:
- Top: ~150px (8%) - "Shorts" title and navigation icons
- Right: ~180px (17%) - Like, dislike, comment, share, remix buttons
- Bottom: ~480px (25%) - Video info, channel, subscribe, navigation bar
- Left: ~40px (2%) - Minimal edge padding
✅ Safe Zone (Center Area)
Your main content should stay within approximately 900×1290px in the center for optimal visibility.
YouTube Shorts UI Elements
Like/Dislike Buttons
Unlike TikTok and Reels, Shorts shows BOTH like and dislike buttons
Remix Button
Unique to Shorts - allows viewers to create response videos
Bottom Navigation Bar
Persistent navigation (Home, Shorts, +, Subscriptions, You) takes up significant bottom space
Channel Subscribe Button
Prominently displayed in the bottom section with channel name
Test Your Shorts Layout
YouTube Shorts has a unique UI with more overlay elements than other platforms. Use OverlayCheck to:
- ✓ See exactly where YouTube's UI will cover your content
- ✓ Preview the bottom navigation bar placement
- ✓ Compare Shorts safe zones with TikTok and Reels
- ✓ Ensure your CTA buttons don't get hidden
Pro Tips for YouTube Shorts
- Optimize for discoverability: Shorts can appear in both Shorts feed and regular YouTube search
- Account for bottom 25%: Largest bottom UI of all platforms - plan accordingly
- Use strong titles: Your video title appears in the bottom section - make it compelling
- Leverage #Shorts: Include #Shorts in title or description for proper categorization
- Mind the right edge: The 17% right sidebar is wider than TikTok/Reels