The New Instagram Grid: What It Means for You
Instagram’s profile grid format has changed! The traditional square layout is being replaced by a taller grid preview, and this will undoubtedly affect how you create and post content. Don’t worry—this guide will cover everything you need to know, including the exact sizes for every piece of content.
Why This Change is a Big Deal
Personally, I’m thrilled about this update! The square grid often felt too cramped, making it hard for individual posts to stand out. With the new taller grid, content has more breathing room, creating a cleaner, more polished look that invites users to engage and explore.
If you’re an Instagram creator, small business owner, or social media manager, staying ahead of platform changes is essential. Instagram’s updates often come with opportunities to rethink strategies and enhance engagement. This latest shift reflects the growing popularity of taller content formats, such as Reels and 4:5 ratio posts, which were often cropped awkwardly in the old grid.
Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, explained that most shared content is no longer square, and this change helps showcase posts more effectively. Let’s be honest—we’ve all seen grid previews where people’s foreheads were cut off from Reels, right? This update addresses those issues while making the grid more visually appealing for everyone.
What Changed in Instagram’s Updated Grid?
Instagram’s grid has transitioned from a traditional 1:1 square layout to a taller 3:4 ratio preview. However, this update comes with some nuances that every content creator should understand, especially for feed posts and carousels. Here’s the breakdown:
Old Square Grid Size: 1:1 Ratio (1080 x 1080 px)
New “Taller” Grid Preview Size: 3:4 Ratio (1015 x 1350 px)
Even though the grid preview is taller, Instagram does not allow direct uploads in the 3:4 ratio. Instead, you’ll need to stick to the 4:5 ratio for feed posts and carousels, which provides a balance between the new grid and the classic square preview for users who haven’t received the update yet.
Cheat Sheet for Instagram Content Sizes
To help you create optimized content, here are the exact dimensions for each format:
Square Posts (Old Grid Content):
Size: 1080 x 1080 px (1:1 ratio)
Ideal for users without the update who still see the square grid.
Current Feed Posts and Carousels:
Size: 1080 x 1350 px (4:5 ratio)
Recommended size for all feed posts.
Grid Preview (Updated Profiles):
Size: 1015 x 1350 px (3:4 ratio)
Note: This is for previews only and cannot be used to create content.
Stories, Reels, Instagram Lives, and Covers:
Size: 1080 x 1920 px (9:16 ratio)
Optimized for vertical, full-screen content.
Key Considerations for the New Instagram Grid
You Can’t Upload 3:4 Ratio Content
While the new grid preview uses a 3:4 ratio, Instagram limits uploads to a maximum of 1080 x 1350 px (4:5 ratio). To avoid cropping issues, continue creating content in the 4:5 format and center important elements within the square zone (1:1).
Not Everyone Has the Update Yet
Instagram rolls out features gradually, and some users may still see your grid in the classic square format. Optimize your content for both formats by centring visuals and text within the 1:1 zone to ensure nothing important gets cut off.
Why This Change is Great for Creators
The taller grid format offers a cleaner and less crowded look, allowing individual posts to stand out more. This is especially beneficial for:
Storytellers: Longer captions and visually engaging content now have more room to shine.
Small Businesses: Product images and carousel posts can look more polished and inviting.
Social Media Managers: The new grid provides an opportunity to rethink aesthetics and layout strategies.
Adapting Your Content Strategy
Now that you’re familiar with the changes, here’s how to adjust your Instagram content strategy:
Update Your Templates: Ensure your design tools (like Canva or Adobe) are set to 1080 x 1350 px for feed posts.
Audit Your Grid: Review your current grid to identify posts that may look awkward with the new layout.
Plan Ahead: Center important elements in the middle square to account for users without the update.
Test and Analyze: Monitor engagement on your posts to see how the new grid affects performance.
Final Thoughts
The new Instagram grid is an exciting change that can make your content more engaging and visually appealing. By staying on top of these updates and optimizing your strategy, you’ll ensure your posts look great—no matter the format. Embrace the taller grid and let your creativity shine!