glossary
TikTok Ad Specs
The technical requirements for running playable ads and video ads on TikTok. Know these cold or expect rejections. TikTok runs two formats that matter for user acquisition: playable ads and in-feed video ads. Each has different specs, different constraints, different opportunities to mess up. 01. Playable Ad Specifications | Specification | Requirement | |————–|————-| | […]
TikTok ad specs are the technical requirements for running playable ads and video ads on TikTok. Know these cold or expect rejections.
TikTok runs two formats that matter for user acquisition: playable ads and in-feed video ads. Each has different specs, different constraints, different opportunities to mess up.
Playable Ad Specifications
| Specification | Requirement | |————–|————-| | File Format | .ZIP package | | File Size | 5 MB maximum (strict) | | Interactivity | Required (tap, swipe, gameplay) | | CTA Button | Must be visible at all times | | Preview Mode | Typically starts as video, shifts to interactive | | Network Compatibility | Pangle (TikTok Audience Network) recommended | | Device Support | Must work on lower-end devices | | Review Process | Stricter than video ads |
Video Ad Specifications
| Specification | Requirement | |————–|————-| | Aspect Ratios | 9:16 (vertical), 1:1 (square), 16:9 (horizontal) | | Recommended Ratio | 9:16 for best performance | | Resolution | 720x1280px minimum, 1080x1920px recommended | | Duration | 5-60 seconds (9-15 seconds optimal) | | File Size | Up to 500 MB | | File Types | MP4, MOV, MPEG, 3GP, AVI | | Bitrate | 516 kbps minimum |
Design Best Practices for Playables
Show core fun in seconds. You have maybe three seconds before someone scrolls. Lead with the hook.
Don’t explain everything. Players figure out good games fast. If your playable needs a tutorial, it’s too complex.
Use lightweight engines. PixiJS and vector graphics keep file sizes down. Heavy 3D frameworks blow past the 5 MB limit fast.
Compress aggressively. Audio, images, animations. Everything gets compressed. Test on low-end devices before submission.
CTA always visible. TikTok enforces this. No hiding the install button during gameplay.
Common Rejection Reasons
File size over 5 MB (playables) The most common rejection. Compress harder or simplify the experience.
Missing or hidden CTA TikTok wants that install button visible throughout. No exceptions.
Poor performance on low-end devices If it stutters on older hardware, it gets rejected. Test on cheap phones.
Misleading gameplay Show actual gameplay, not aspirational cutscenes per TikTok’s advertising policies. Fake-out ads get flagged. Ad fraud detection is strict.
Audio/video quality issues Low bitrate video ads look bad and get rejected. Hit the minimum specs or go higher.
Non-interactive playables If you submit a playable that’s just a video with a button, expect rejection. Real interactivity required.
Related Terms
- Playable Ads – Interactive ad format fundamentals
- Creative Fatigue – Why you need volume on TikTok
- Ad Networks – Where TikTok fits in UA strategy
External Resources
- TikTok Video Ad Specifications – Official specs from TikTok
- Udonis TikTok Ad Specs Guide – Detailed breakdown with examples
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the playable file size so strict?
TikTok prioritizes fast load times and broad device compatibility. 5 MB is the hard limit. Go over it and you’re rejected immediately, no exceptions.
What aspect ratio performs best for video ads?
9:16 vertical. It’s native to TikTok’s mobile feed and gets the most screen real estate compared to 1:1 or 16:9.
How long should my video ad be?
9-15 seconds is the sweet spot. Long enough to show value, short enough to hold attention before the scroll.
Do playables really need to work on low-end devices?
Yes. TikTok’s user base spans global markets with varying device quality. If your playable stutters on older hardware, it gets rejected during review.
