How Long Should My Video Be in 2025?
The Different Types of Video Lengths
One of the most common questions we get when meeting with clients is: “How long should my video be?”
The short answer? It depends!
Where you plan to use your video plays a big role in determining how long it should be. That said, according to Wyzowl, “most people (73%) believe videos between 30 seconds and 2 minutes are most effective.” So, while there are still plenty of cases for going shorter or longer (and we’ll get to those), that 30-second to 2-minute range is a strong starting point for most video marketing needs.
Let’s break down the best use cases for short, mid-length, and long-form videos in 2025.
Short-Form Video (Under 60-Seconds)
With people constantly on the go, short-form video is king. These quick, easily digestible videos work well for grabbing attention, receiving high interaction from viewers, and getting straight to the point—especially on social media.
If your primary platform is Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts, sticking under 60 seconds is your best bet. The shorter and more engaging, the better.
Common short-form formats include:
– Behind-The-Scenes
Quick Clips (1 – 10 Seconds)
– Ads
Digital Monetization (10 – 15 Seconds)
Television Commercials (30-Seconds)
– Intro Videos
To Welcome Team Members, Staff, or Prospects (~60-Seconds)
A good example? A 60-second welcome video from the President of Banker Steel designed to greet new hires after their job offer. It’s short, personal, and leaves a strong first impression.
Mid-Length Video (1 – 2 Minutes)
If short-form video is for grabbing attention, mid-length video is where you start to build trust. While platforms like LinkedIn or Vimeo allow for longer formats, this sweet spot helps you deliver more depth without losing viewer interest.
As noted in a recent Dash article, video length often depends on both the channel and the content itself.
Best suited for:
– Company Overviews
– Explainer Videos
– Client Testimonials
These videos still need to be concise, but the 1–2-minute range gives you a little more room to dive into your topic without losing the audience’s attention. Unlike short-form videos, these often vary in length depending on the story you’re trying to tell. For example, a brief client testimonial might clock in closer to one minute, while an explainer that walks through a detailed process might need closer to two.
An example of how this format can work is the ~2-minute client testimonial we produced for Friendship Industries/Able Solutions — it shows how you can convey real impact without overstaying your welcome.
Longer-Form Video (Over 2-Minutes)
Sometimes, your story or topic needs more time—and that’s okay. Long-form video starts at around two minutes but can easily run much longer depending on the goals and content.
In this category, “what” you’re saying matters more than “where” it’s being watched. Ask yourself:
– What content am I using to build this video?
– What’s the intended use—internal training, external onboarding, etc.?
Most common use: Training videos.
Organizations often turn in-person or written training materials into video to improve efficiency and reduce staff workload. The final length can vary based on whether the source is a 2-page script or a full PowerPoint presentation.
Distribution also plays a role. If viewers are watching on their own time, platforms like YouTube or Vimeo are ideal. For on-site viewing, a thumb drive or playing the video directly off of a computer may be better suited.
Want an example? Check out the 10-minute training video we produced for jury duty at the Rockingham County Circuit Court.
Summary: Find the Right Fit for Your Audience and Goal
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to video length—but there is a right length for your audience and your goals.
– Under 60 seconds is ideal for short attention spans, fast engagement, and social media.
– 1 to 2 minutes is great for building trust and providing more context—especially on professional platforms.
– Over 2 minutes gives you the space to go in-depth for training or storytelling when needed.
The key is to keep the viewer in mind. Ask yourself: Where are they watching? Why are they watching? And what action do I want them to take next?
Still unsure what length works best for your next project? We’re happy to help you figure it out. Just reach out!
