WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps for sharing videos, but it comes with file size limits. Directly sending a video in chats is capped at 16 MB, while the document option allows up to 2 GB.
These limits can be frustrating if your clip is long or high-resolution. The good news is that there are easy ways to work around these restrictions. With the right method, you can send your video without delays, quality loss, or complicated steps. Here is how to send a large video on WhatsApp effectively.
Best Methods for Sending a Large Video on WhatsApp
If your video is too big for direct sharing, these techniques will help you get it to your recipient quickly and in good quality.
Compress the Video for Smaller File Size
One of the fastest solutions is video compression. You can use apps like Video Compressor, InShot, or VLC Media Player to shrink your file. Compression reduces the resolution or bitrate, making the video smaller.
For example, switching from 4K to 1080p or 720p can cut the file size by more than half. After compression, you can share the video directly in WhatsApp without hitting its size limit.
Send the Video as a Document
Instead of attaching your video from the gallery, select the document option. This allows you to send videos up to 2 GB.
Here’s how:
- Tap the attachment (paperclip) icon in your chat.
- Select Document instead of Gallery.
- Browse and choose your video from your phone storage.
This method avoids WhatsApp’s automatic compression, keeping more of the original quality.
If your video is still too large for the document method, upload it to a cloud storage platform like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.
Steps:
- Upload your video to your preferred cloud storage service.
- Copy the shareable link.
- Send the link in your WhatsApp chat.
The recipient can then view or download the video in full quality without size limits. This is perfect for long event recordings or high-resolution projects.
Trim or Split the Video into Parts
If the problem is video length, trimming or splitting works well. Most phones and video editing apps let you cut unnecessary sections or divide the video into smaller clips.
You can then send each segment separately. While the viewer will need to play multiple files, they will still get the complete content.
Record in Lower Resolution from the Start
If you know in advance that you will share the video through WhatsApp, you can record in a lower resolution to avoid size issues.
For instance:
- Use 1080p instead of 4K for casual videos.
- Lower the frame rate if high motion isn’t essential.
This reduces the file size immediately and saves you from having to compress it later.
Final Tips for Sending Large Videos on WhatsApp
- Always check your video size before sending to save time.
- Use Wi-Fi for faster uploads, especially for large files.
- Choose the method that best balances file size and quality for your needs.
With these strategies, you no longer have to worry about WhatsApp’s file limits. Whether you compress, send as a document, use cloud storage, trim, or record in a lower resolution, you can make sure your video reaches its destination quickly and clearly.
