Discord file size guide
How to make a video small enough for Discord.
Discord currently lists a 10MB upload limit for non-Nitro users, 50MB for Nitro Basic, and up to 500MB for Nitro, while noting that selected users may see experimental limits.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-31
Direct answer
The short version
For a free Discord account, target slightly below 10MB. Trim unused seconds first, then use a small-file preset or calculate an appropriate bitrate. If quality becomes unacceptable, shorten the clip or reduce resolution.
Confirm the limit for your Discord plan
Do not rely on old 8MB guides without checking your current account. Discord’s official documentation currently lists 10MB for non-Nitro subscribers, 50MB for Nitro Basic, and up to 500MB for Nitro.
Discord also states that it experiments with different upload limits for selected users, so the limit visible in your client is the final authority.
Trim the video before aggressive compression
Remove loading screens, silence, pauses, failed takes, and unnecessary endings. A shorter video has more data available for every remaining second at the same file-size target.
CreatorZip supports simple start and end trimming in the same workflow as compression.
Use a 10MB target with a safety margin
For non-Nitro accounts, aim below the limit rather than exactly at 10MB. A target around 9.5MB leaves room for small differences between the estimate and the exported file.
Use the bitrate calculator when you know the duration, or start with the Smallest file preset and inspect the result.
Protect quality by changing the right variable
If the video looks blocky, avoid lowering bitrate indefinitely. Shorten the clip, reduce 4K or 1080p to 720p, or lower frame rate for content that does not need high-motion playback.
Always watch the downloaded MP4 before sending it to a server or community.
Sources
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the current free Discord upload limit?
Discord currently lists 10MB for non-Nitro subscribers, while noting that selected users may see experimental limits.
Why do older guides say 8MB?
Discord used an 8MB free limit for years. Those pages and discussions remain indexed even though the commonly documented free limit is now 10MB.
What if the compressed video is still too large?
Trim more duration, lower resolution, use a smaller-file setting, or calculate a lower target bitrate with a safety margin.
Why does my Discord video look pixelated?
The bitrate may be too low for the resolution and motion in the source. Shortening the clip or lowering resolution can preserve more visible quality than bitrate reduction alone.
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