Introduction to Midjourney’s new features: HD video generation and smaller-batch output

Midjourney recently made two key upgrades to the video-generation experience: HD (high-definition) video generation has been rolled out to more subscription tiers, and smaller-batch video generation is now supported. This article explains, in the shortest path, what problems each solves and how to use them in Midjourney without wasting credits.

What exactly does HD video generation improve?

HD mode renders videos at a native 720p resolution. Compared with the standard mode, it better suppresses small-scale pixel artifacts and produces cleaner edges. For fine, detailed textures such as people, hair, leaves, and water surfaces, Midjourney’s HD video generation is more likely to preserve layering and is also better for secondary editing in post-production.

Note that HD video generation is a high-cost feature, and the official guidance explicitly warns to “use with caution.” If you’re only making storyboard previews or rough motion drafts, standard mode is more cost-effective.

How to enable HD video generation in Midjourney

If you’re using the Chinese-language Midjourney web version, you can generally select an already generated image from your history and click “Video Generation” to enter the workflow. Then, in the relevant settings, choose HD mode and submit; wait for the render to complete.

This new Midjourney feature is being rolled out gradually: early on, HD was more oriented toward higher-tier plans, and it has since expanded to standard-plan users. Before enabling it, it’s recommended to confirm your plan and mode limitations to avoid situations where you can see the option but can’t use it.

Support for smaller-batch generation: better for iteration

Another practical update is “smaller-batch video generation,” which lets you reduce the number generated per batch to 1 or 2. For creators who need to repeatedly test motion rhythm, camera direction, and subject stability, this is more economical than generating a large batch at once.

When making videos in Midjourney, it’s recommended to start with small batches to quickly narrow down the direction, then switch the closest version to HD video generation for the final cut. This way, you spend the cost on shots that are “confirmed to work.”

Practical advice: when you should use HD video generation

When a scene contains lots of detail (such as neon in a city nightscape, crowds in the distance, or rain/snow particles) or you need a clearer final output, Midjourney’s HD video generation is more worth enabling. Conversely, if you’re only making short social-media loops, mood tests, or storyboards, standard mode is usually sufficient.

Overall, this update fills in both “usability” and “controllability” at the same time: HD raises the quality ceiling, and smaller batches set a lower cost floor. Pair the two together, and your video iteration workflow becomes noticeably smoother.