The character limit on X (formerly Twitter) is one of its defining features. But in 2026, the rules aren't as simple as they used to be. This guide breaks down every character limit you need to know, from standard posts to the expanded limits for Blue subscribers.
The Big Question: What's the Character Limit?
It depends on who you are:
- Standard Users: The classic 280 characters per post remains the standard for free users.
- X Blue Subscribers: Subscribers get a massive increase to 25,000 characters per post.
Character Limits At-a-Glance
| Feature | Standard Limit | X Blue Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Post (Tweet) | 280 characters | 25,000 characters |
| Direct Message (DM) | 10,000 characters | 10,000 characters |
| Profile Name | 50 characters | 50 characters |
| Profile Bio | 160 characters | 160 characters |
| Profile Location | 30 characters | 30 characters |
| Website URL | 100 characters | 100 characters |
What "Counts" as a Character?
Twitter's counting system is straightforward, but there are nuances:
- Letters, Numbers, Symbols & Punctuation: Each counts as one character.
- Spaces: Yes, spaces count.
- Emojis: Most emojis count as two characters. 👍👍
- Links: All links, regardless of their original length, are shortened by Twitter's t.co service and count as 23 characters.
- Images, GIFs, and Videos: These do not count against your character limit. You can add up to 4 images, 1 GIF, or 1 video per post.
- Polls: Poll questions and choices do not count against the character limit of the accompanying post.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting that links automatically use 23 characters.
- Using too many emojis, which quickly doubles the character count.
- Trying to paste a long URL directly without letting Twitter shorten it.
How to Write Longer Posts (Even Without Blue)
1. Create a Thread
Threads are the classic way to tell a longer story. Simply post your first tweet, then click the "Add another Tweet" button to create a chain. This is perfect for step-by-step guides, narratives, or detailed analysis.
2. Post a Screenshot of Text
A simple but effective method. Write your longer message in a notes app, take a screenshot, and post it as an image. The downside is that the text isn't searchable, and links aren't clickable.
3. Link to a Blog Post
For truly long-form content, nothing beats a blog. Write a compelling, short post on Twitter that hooks the reader and includes a link to the full article on your site. This drives traffic and lets you express your ideas without limits.
Is an X Blue Subscription Worth It for the Character Limit?
For most users, 280 characters are plenty. However, a Blue subscription might be valuable if you are:
- A writer or journalist who wants to publish full articles directly on the platform.
- A brand or expert who needs to provide detailed, nuanced customer support or explanations.
- A creator looking to engage their audience with in-depth stories without using threads.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your content strategy. The 25,000-character limit offers freedom but requires a different approach to keep readers engaged in such a long format on a fast-paced platform.