Instagram Explore Ad Size: 1080×1080 px
Aspect ratio 1:1 · 1080×1080 pixels · JPG, PNG, MP4, MOV
Explore uses the same 1:1 or 4:5 assets as the main feed but is served to non-follower audiences discovering content by topic.
Why this size matters
Explore audiences are colder than feed — they don't already follow the brand, so context has to live inside the creative itself. "Ad-first" framing (clear product, obvious price, brand name in first 2s) wins here.
- Formats
- JPG, PNG, MP4, MOV
- Max file size
- 30 MB
- Best for
- Reaching new audiences via the Explore surface.
Design tips that actually move the needle
- 01Reuse your 4:5 feed asset — no separate Explore creative needed.
- 02Brand identifier in the first frame — cold audiences don't recognize the handle.
- 03Show the product doing the thing it does — no lifestyle-only shots.
- 04Price or offer on-image if you have one — Explore is high-intent discovery.
People also ask
Is Explore a separate placement I need to toggle?+
It's included by default in Advantage+ placements. You can exclude it in manual placement selection but the audience is high-quality prospecting inventory.
Do Explore ads perform differently?+
CPMs are usually lower than feed, but CTR is lower too. Blended CPA is often better because the audience is broader.
What is 1:1 in pixels?+
For Instagram Explore, a 1:1 aspect ratio is 1080×1080 pixels. Any resolution with the same ratio works, but 1080×1080 px is the recommended native size and avoids upscaling.
Is 1080×1080 the right size for Instagram Explore?+
Yes — 1080×1080 px (1:1) is the recommended Instagram Explore ad size. Accepted formats: JPG, PNG, MP4, MOV. Maximum file size: 30 MB.
Related sizes
Free tools for this size
Aspect ratio reference
→ 1:1 aspect ratio: pixel sizes, mm and placementsFull platform reference
→ All Instagram ad specsStop resizing by hand. Xeli does it for you.
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