If you’ve ever tried recording or sending a video on Snapchat only to have it awkwardly cut off mid-clip, you’re definitely not alone. Snapchat’s video time limits can be pretty frustrating, especially when you’re trying to capture a longer video that you want to send to your friends. The good news is there are a few ways you can work around Snapchat’s recording limits.
What are Snapchat’s video time limits?
Snapchat has two video time limits to be aware of:
- Videos you record and send directly through Snapchat are limited to 10 seconds.
- Videos you upload from your camera roll have a 60 second limit.
So if you record a video within the Snapchat app, it will automatically stop after 10 seconds. And if you upload a pre-recorded video from your camera roll, Snapchat will cut it off after one minute.
Why does Snapchat have video time limits?
Snapchat was originally intended to be used for sharing quick, spontaneous moments. The short time limits reinforce that by encouraging users to capture short videos in the moment rather than prerecording long, elaborate clips. Some of the reasons Snapchat limits video length include:
- Reduce file size: Shorter videos take up less storage space and data.
- Maintain casual, in-the-moment feel: Long videos feel less like quick “snapshots” to share.
- Encourage creativity: The limits motivate users to get creative in condensing their videos.
Of course, as user needs evolve, these tight limits can sometimes be frustrating. The good news is there are some workarounds.
How to record longer Snapchat videos
If you want to capture a video that’s longer than 10-60 seconds, there are a couple options:
1. Use the multi-snap feature
Snapchat’s “multi-snap” recording allows you to record up to 60 seconds of footage by tapping and holding the record button. It will automatically record 10 second clips back-to-back until you release the button or hit the 60 second maximum.
To use multi-snap:
- Open the Snapchat camera.
- Press and hold the record button to start recording your first 10 seconds.
- Continue holding the button when the first clip ends. This will immediately start recording a second 10 second clip.
- Keep holding down the record button until you have recorded all the footage you need, up to 60 seconds.
- Release the button to stop recording.
- Edit and send your multi-snap video as normal.
The only catch is your video may look a bit choppy since it’s broken up into 10 second segments. But it’s an easy way to capture longer footage without any third-party apps.
2. Use Snapchat’s 60-second uploading limit
If you don’t mind taking your video outside of Snapchat, you can record up to 60 seconds in your camera app and then upload it to Snapchat later. Here’s how:
- Open your phone’s camera app separate from Snapchat.
- Record a video up to 60 seconds long.
- Open Snapchat and tap the upload icon in the toolbar.
- Select your video from your camera roll.
- Trim your video if needed (it will still only send as a 60-second clip).
- Edit and send as normal.
This gives you more flexibility with recording. Just keep in mind the upload limit is 60 seconds, so your video will still be cut off after one minute.
3. Use a third-party app to extend limits
If you need more than 60 seconds, certain third-party apps can help extend Snapchat limits:
| App | Time Limit | How it Works |
|---|---|---|
| VideoMerger | 5-10 minutes | Merge multiple videos together before uploading to Snapchat |
| VideoSplit | 60 seconds | Split long video into 60 sec clips to upload as separate Snaps |
| LensDesk | 60 seconds | Upload 60 sec vids as “lenses” that recipients “play” |
The advantage of using a third-party app is you can record very long videos and work around Snapchat’s 60-second limit. Just be aware that some of these apps work by uploading your video externally rather than directly through Snapchat.
Why does my Snapchat video cut out randomly?
If your Snapchat video recording randomly cuts out mid-video, there are a few possible explanations:
You lifted your finger while recording
If recording a multi-snap video, you need to keep your finger continuously pressed on the record button. Lifting your finger even briefly will stop the recording and cut the video short.
Your phone switched apps in the background
If another app notification appears in the background while you’re recording Snapchat video, your phone may automatically switch apps, which interrupts the recording.
To avoid this, close out of all other apps before recording your Snapchat video.
Your storage or network connection was interrupted
Sometimes choppy storage or poor network connectivity can also cause Snapchat recordings to cut out unexpectedly. Make sure you have enough available storage on your phone and a stable internet connection before recording.
You accidentally hit the stop button
On some phones, the Snapchat record button is very close to the “back” button. It’s easy to accidentally tap the wrong one and cut your recording short.
Pay close attention to only tap the record button when starting and stopping your video.
The app glitched
Like any app, Snapchat isn’t perfect. Sometimes glitches happen that cause recordings to end prematurely. Closing and restarting the app before recording can help.
Tips for recording long Snapchat videos
Here are some best practices for capturing long videos on Snapchat without interruptions:
- Close out of all other apps and notifications before recording.
- Use the multi-snap feature but don’t lift your finger until you’re done.
- Record horizontal videos for a better fit.
- Use optimal lighting so your video is clear.
- Keep your phone steady by mounting it or using a tripod.
- Know exactly what you want to capture before you start recording.
- Preview your video before sending to make sure it came out how you wanted.
Conclusion
Snapchat’s short video limits can be annoying, but are in place to reinforce the app’s fun, casual nature. If you need more time, leverage multi-snap recording, upload from your camera roll, or use third-party apps to extend your videos. With the right technique and some practice, you can create longer recordings that won’t cut off awkwardly mid-video.
The key is understanding Snapchat’s limitations and finding creative workarounds. While video length is restricted, the tools are there to capture multi-part recordings or upload existing video at up to 60 seconds. With the right strategy, you can share engaging video stories with friends even with Snapchat’s constraints.
Summary
- Snapchat limits videos recorded in-app to 10 seconds and camera roll uploads to 60 seconds.
- Short limits are meant to encourage quick, casual sharing.
- Use multi-snap, camera roll uploads, or third-party apps to work around limits.
- Choppy recordings can result from lifting your finger, app switching, or tech issues.
- Best practices include closing other apps, using optimal lighting, and steadying your phone.
With some creativity and the right tools, you can capture and share longer videos that won’t annoyingly cut off mid-clip. What strategies have you found helpful for recording longer Snapchat videos? Let me know in the comments!