| Pinterest has evolved into a powerful video-first search engine, giving brands a unique opportunity to blend inspiration with intent in 2026. With Pinterest videos driving higher engagement, saves, and visibility, brands can now reach audiences through dynamic content that blends storytelling and search intent. This guide covers everything you need to know, from how to post videos on Pinterest to understanding Pinterest video ads, creating scroll-stopping Pins, and building a strong Pinterest video strategy for startups and established brands alike. |
Today, Pinterest isn’t just a place to collect ideas — it’s where ideas come alive in motion. Whether it’s a 15-second recipe tutorial, a mini product demo, or a storytelling-driven brand video, businesses are realizing that Pinterest videos hold the power to connect intent-driven audiences with visually immersive content.
And in 2026, it’s going to be a game changer.
With Gen Z and Millennials increasingly turning to Pinterest not just to “pin,” but to plan and purchase, brands are finding more ways to show up through short-form video content. According to Statista, Pinterest surpassed 500 million monthly active users in 2025, proving that this “quiet giant” is becoming a vital part of every forward-thinking marketer’s playbook.
So whether you’re a lifestyle brand sharing DIY transformations, an eCommerce retailer highlighting product features, or a B2B company building brand awareness, understanding Pinterest’s video ecosystem is key to success.
Let’s dive into the why, what, and how of creating an unbeatable Pinterest video strategy for 2026.
For a cross-platform perspective, you can also explore social media video marketing to see how Pinterest fits within a complete video-first growth strategy.
If you’re still asking “Wait, does Pinterest even have videos?” — you’re not alone. Pinterest’s transition from a static image platform to a video-first experience has been gradual, but today, videos are everywhere on the platform. Here’s how they work and where users see them.
Pinterest now supports three major video formats, each serving a unique purpose:
Pinterest has strategically placed video content across multiple touchpoints:
The result? Pinterest feels less like a “scroll and forget” app and more like a living, breathing catalogue that keeps your video working long after you post it.
Previously, only select advertisers could post videos. But now, every creator and business account can upload videos directly. That means whether you’re an indie jewelry brand, a design agency, or a solopreneur, you can share your stories through motion.
You can upload through desktop or mobile, and your videos will automatically optimize for feed and search discovery, ensuring your content looks great everywhere. This democratization of video access has opened the door for smaller brands to compete with industry giants and win, by being more creative, authentic, and consistent.
Source: Statista
If you’re wondering whether Pinterest is worth your brand’s time, the short answer is yes, especially if you’re serious about engagement and brand discovery. Pinterest videos are no longer an experimental format; they’ve become one of the platform’s most powerful drivers of attention. Many brands are now investing in Pinterest commercials to promote new products, seasonal campaigns, and tutorials that align with user search intent.
Static images might stop the scroll, but videos start the conversation. Data shows that video Pins deliver up to three times more engagement and saves compared to image Pins. The reason is simple: movement draws the eye, emotion holds attention, and storytelling inspires action.
Pinterest’s audience loves “how-to” and “transformation” content. Think of quick recipe videos, interior design makeovers, or beauty tutorials, they all work beautifully on Pinterest because they show rather than tell. Even B2B brands are using explainer videos, motion infographics, and product walkthroughs to simplify complex ideas and boost visibility.
For visual inspiration, check out how to improve social media marketing with animation.
Pinterest has steadily updated its algorithm to prioritize movement. Idea Pins - Pinterest’s multi-frame, story-style videos, have become a centerpiece of content discovery.
Pinterest’s algorithm favors videos that encourage engagement metrics such as saves, clicks, and “outbound link interactions.” In other words, the more watchable and actionable your videos are, the more Pinterest will amplify them. That’s why brands that consistently publish short, visually appealing videos are seeing organic reach far outpace traditional image Pins.
Let’s break down why Pinterest videos have become indispensable for marketers:
If you’re new to uploading videos on Pinterest, don’t worry, it’s simpler than it looks. Pinterest has made the process incredibly intuitive, allowing creators and brands of all sizes to share high-quality, engaging video content with minimal effort.
Here’s a complete breakdown of how to post videos on Pinterest and make sure they perform at their best.
Before you upload your first video, ensure your account is set up for success. A Pinterest Business Account unlocks essential tools such as:
If you already have a personal account, you can switch easily:
Go to Settings → Account Management → Convert to Business Account.
This will allow you to track metrics like saves, impressions, and outbound clicks - vital data for refining your Pinterest video strategy.
Before uploading, take a few moments to optimize your video file:
If you’re unsure what kind of video style works, check out our article on how to create social media viral videos.
You can upload videos through desktop or mobile:
On Desktop:
On Mobile:
Pro Tip: Optimize your title and description with relevant keywords, but keep them conversational. Pinterest’s algorithm loves natural language.
This is where Pinterest SEO really comes into play.
Use this simple formula for success:
You can also:
Once published, your video will start appearing in feeds and search results. Monitor early performance and update descriptions based on engagement metrics.
Now that your video is ready to go, let’s make sure it looks perfect everywhere. Uploading videos in the wrong size or aspect ratio can lead to awkward cropping, pixelation, or poor engagement. The good news? Pinterest makes it easy to optimize — if you know the right specs.
Source: Freepik
Pinterest supports multiple aspect ratios, but the following work best:
|
Format Type |
Aspect Ratio |
Best For |
|
Square |
1:1 |
Multi-platform consistency; good for feed browsing. |
|
Vertical (Standard) |
2:3 |
Pinterest’s classic format; balanced and mobile-friendly. |
|
Vertical (Full) |
9:16 |
Full-screen videos that dominate the mobile feed; great for Idea Pins. |
Pro Tip: Always test your video’s framing. Text or important visuals should stay within the safe zone (center 80%) so nothing gets cut off.
|
Specification |
Recommended |
|
File Format |
MP4 or MOV |
|
Encoding |
H.264 |
|
Resolution |
1080p (minimum width: 600px) |
|
Length |
6–60 seconds (ideal under 30 seconds) |
|
File Size Limit |
Up to 2 GB |
|
Sound |
Optional — ensure captions for silent viewers |
Pinterest automatically optimizes videos for device and network conditions. However, uploading at a high resolution ensures your content always looks sharp.
If you’re planning to promote your videos, here’s what you should know about Pinterest video ad specs:
|
Ad Type |
Aspect Ratio |
Duration |
Description |
|
Standard Width Video Ad |
1:1 or 2:3 |
Up to 15 minutes |
Appears in-feed, ideal for brand storytelling. |
|
Max Width Video Ad |
9:16 |
Up to 15 minutes |
Expands across both columns on mobile, offering high impact. |
|
Idea Ads (Video) |
9:16 |
6–30 seconds |
Ideal for educational, interactive, or multi-part storytelling. |
Using the correct specs doesn’t just improve aesthetics, it boosts CTR and engagement, since Pinterest’s algorithm favors well-formatted content.
For reference, see how specs vary across platforms in our post on Twitter Video Ad Specs.
Pinterest’s algorithm uses content quality as a ranking signal. When your video matches the platform’s ideal aspect ratio and file quality:
A perfectly sized, properly optimized video = better reach, better performance, and better ROI.
Pinterest video ads are where creativity meets conversion. Unlike traditional social platforms where ads often interrupt the experience, Pinterest ads blend in naturally with user intent. They inspire, educate, and subtly nudge users toward action — without feeling intrusive.
Pinterest offers three main ad formats to suit various goals and budgets:
Pinterest’s advertising ecosystem has grown remarkably sophisticated. You can target users based on:
Campaign objectives generally fall into three buckets:
While metrics vary by industry, here’s a ballpark benchmark for Pinterest video ad performance:
To optimize results:
For creative inspiration across platforms, explore our related articles on:
YouTube Video Ads
Best Facebook Video Ads
LinkedIn Video Ads
The best Pinterest commercials combine beautiful visuals, actionable ideas, and clear calls-to-action that align with the platform’s discovery-driven audience. Pinterest is a visual discovery engine, not a typical social feed. That means your videos need to do more than just “look pretty.” They need to capture attention, tell a story, and inspire action within seconds.
The key? Think of Pinterest as YouTube meets Google Search; users come with intent. They’re not mindlessly scrolling; they’re searching for ideas. So, your video should feel like an answer, a spark, or a how-to moment.
Let’s break down what makes a scroll-stopping Pinterest video Pin.
Pinterest users are multitaskers. To grab their attention, start your video with a bold visual, clear transformation, or irresistible statement.
Some ideas that work consistently:
Example:
A brand selling eco-friendly paint could open with a quick clip of a dull room instantly transforming into a colorful, sustainable space — within two seconds, the viewer gets it.
Every great video on Pinterest follows a simple arc: Hook → Process → Reveal.
Let’s say you’re a furniture brand. Your 20-second video could look like this:
This storytelling structure keeps viewers emotionally invested while delivering value.
Pro tip: Add subtle transitions and consistent pacing. Pinterest users love content that’s smooth, not flashy.
Animations can make even simple concepts pop. Text overlays can reinforce your message, and captions make your videos accessible to viewers watching without sound, which, by the way, is most of them.
Use tools like Canva or Adobe Express to add branded text, icons, or animated arrows.
Keep your captions concise (under 10 words per frame) and in high-contrast colors for easy readability.
And don’t forget - accessibility builds trust. When your videos are easy to follow, they perform better across all demographics.
Pinterest’s algorithm loves videos that teach or inspire. That’s why tutorials, how-to's, and transformations dominate the platform.
Some evergreen formats that perform well:
Educational content doesn’t mean always boring, it means useful. When users feel like your video gave them something of value, they save it, boosting long-term visibility.
Need expert help crafting engaging visuals? Explore our social media video production services to create Pinterest-ready storytelling videos that convert.
About 82–85 % of Pinterest usage happens on mobile, so your video should be vertical (2:3 or 9:16), with key text centered vertically. Avoid clutter, tiny fonts, or horizontal layouts — they get cropped or ignored. Use clear visuals, minimal text, and bold color contrast. Think: scroll-stopping simplicity.
Now that you know how to create, upload, and optimize Pinterest videos, let’s talk about strategy, because success on Pinterest doesn’t happen by accident. It’s about aligning creativity with intent.
Unlike TikTok or Instagram, where content fades in hours, Pinterest has a long content lifespan. A great video can keep generating traffic and save months after posting.
Here’s how Pinterest stands out:
That’s why your Pinterest video strategy should lean into helpful, searchable, evergreen content, rather than chasing viral moments.
Startups, in particular, can win big with Pinterest, even on small budgets.
Here’s how:
Pinterest’s internal tools and third-party platforms (like Later and Tailwind) make it easy to plan ahead.
Scheduling Tips:
Keyword Tagging:
Analytics Insights:
For deeper engagement strategies, see our post on tips to improve social media followers and engagement.
Source: Freepik
Pinterest shouldn’t exist in isolation. It’s most effective when integrated into your wider video-first strategy. For instance:
This holistic approach ensures your video investment keeps paying off, across platforms and time.
Pinterest isn’t just about posting content — it’s about crafting experiences that connect inspiration with action. To make your Pinterest video strategy stand out in 2026, you’ll need a blend of creativity, consistency, and data-driven refinement.
Source: Freepik
Here’s a complete list of Pinterest video best practices to help your brand stay ahead of the curve.
Pinterest users scroll fast. The average viewer spends less than 10 seconds per Pin before deciding whether to engage. That’s why short videos, between 15 and 30 seconds, perform best. They’re long enough to tell a story but short enough to maintain attention.
If you’re sharing tutorials or multi-step processes, use Idea Pins with multiple clips instead of one long video. This format lets you guide viewers step-by-step while keeping engagement high.
Your audience should recognize your videos instantly, even before they see your logo. Consistency builds trust and brand recall. Here’s how to achieve it:
Pinterest’s analytics tools make it easy to experiment.
Try A/B testing different:
Post both versions, track saves, impressions, and click-throughs, and see which performs better. Over time, you’ll identify what your audience truly responds to — data-driven creativity is the fastest way to scale results.
Pinterest videos are often watched without sound, especially on mobile. Captions ensure your message gets across, even when muted. They also improve accessibility for hearing-impaired viewers, expanding your potential reach. Use bold, legible fonts with high contrast against your video background.
Adding text overlays can also emphasize key takeaways like:
“Save this idea for later”
“Shop now”
These micro-prompts drive engagement without being pushy.
Pinterest users love acting on inspiration — they’re natural planners. So guide them clearly toward the next step.
Examples of effective CTAs:
Source: Freepik
With most Pinterest traffic coming from smartphones, vertical or square formats work best. Ensure your visuals, text, and logos stay within the safe zones of a mobile frame. The more effortless your video looks on mobile, the more likely viewers will watch, save, and share it.
Pinterest rewards consistency. Posting 3–5 times a week is far more effective than uploading 15 Pins in one day and going silent for weeks.
Schedule your posts using Pinterest’s built-in tools or external platforms like Tailwind or Buffer. This ensures your audience always has something new to engage with, and signals the algorithm that your account is active and relevant.
Regularly check your Pinterest Analytics dashboard to review:
Use these insights to shape your future content calendar. If you notice that short, vertical “how-to” videos perform better, make them a recurring format.
Each platform behaves differently. Pinterest might favor evergreen “how-to” content, while TikTok might reward trending sounds. Compare engagement patterns across your other social profiles like Instagram, YouTube, and Snapchat — to see how audiences differ.
For a broader comparison, check out our guide on snapchat marketing. It highlights how discovery-focused platforms differ in audience behavior and creative trends, helping you fine-tune your Pinterest approach.
Pinterest videos are no longer optional — they’re essential.
The platform’s evolution from a static image board to a video-powered discovery engine has opened a new era of opportunity for brands that think visually and act strategically. Whether you’re a creator, startup, or global enterprise, Pinterest allows you to build awareness, nurture intent, and drive long-term traffic, all through the power of motion.
By following the best practices in this guide, from uploading correctly sized videos and optimizing SEO metadata to testing creatives and embracing educational storytelling, your brand can thrive in this ever-evolving visual ecosystem.
Pinterest rewards clarity, creativity, and consistency; three traits that make any Pinterest video marketing strategy unstoppable.
Want to create high-performing Pinterest videos? Explore our social media video production services to turn your ideas into engaging, on-brand, and conversion-driven visuals.
Absolutely. Pinterest videos are more than just visually appealing—they’re powerful drivers of engagement and discovery. In 2026, Pinterest’s algorithm actively favors motion-based content like Idea Pins and short-form videos, which consistently outperform static images in both reach and saves.
Video Pins help brands stand out in search results, stay visible longer, and connect with audiences actively seeking inspiration or products. According to recent data, video Pins can deliver up to three times more engagement than static ones—making them an essential part of any modern content strategy.
If your goal is awareness, engagement, or conversions, Pinterest video marketing offers a rare mix of creativity and measurable ROI.
Uploading a video to Pinterest is quick and straightforward.
Keep videos under 30 seconds, focus on strong visuals in the first 3 seconds, and include relevant hashtags and metadata for better search visibility.
Pinterest video ads are paid promotions designed to amplify your reach and target specific audiences, while organic video Pins rely on SEO and engagement to gain visibility.
Here’s the difference in a nutshell:
Pinterest offers several ad formats — Standard Width, Max Width, and Idea Ads — each designed for different campaign goals.
Video ads feel native within Pinterest’s visual ecosystem, meaning they blend inspiration with intent—which is exactly why users engage with them more naturally.
To make the most of Pinterest for videos, consistency matters more than frequency. Posting 3–5 videos per week is ideal for maintaining visibility and engagement without overwhelming your audience.
Each Pin you post continues to gain traction over time, thanks to Pinterest’s evergreen nature. This means even older videos can resurface through search results and related Pins months after publication.
Use Pinterest Analytics to track which videos earn the most saves, clicks, and impressions, and focus on recreating or repurposing that style. Over time, consistency builds brand authority and a loyal audience.