The most significant difference between reels and videos is the time limit. Users must summarize the video within 90 seconds in reels, as they cannot exceed this limit. On the other hand, Instagram feed videos can go up to 60 minutes.

Because the reels algorithm and the reels feed work together to get your content in front of more new-to-you users, short-form video typically generates much higher reach. In fact, Instagram encourages users to create engaging reels in order to qualify for recommendations.

Instagram has deprecated the ability to create a standard video post. Instead all videos posted to Instagram are considered Reels. Due to this change, you won't see the option to select a standard post option when publishing videos to your Instagram account. Videos automatically get published as Reels in Sprout.