Shared library vs shared album

What is the difference between the shared photo library in a shared photo album? Why would I pick the library when the album is already an option?

Posted on Jul 1, 2023 09:54 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 28, 2024 12:03 PM

Note that while Shared Albums do not use your personal iCloud space, photos are reduced to 2048 pixels on the long edge and videos are reduced to 720p resolution. So photo size / resolution is reduced.

Shared Album limits - Apple Support

Using a Shared Library presumably leaves all photos and videos at their native resolution. I agree that the lack of a way to have a shared (event) album inside a shared library is unfortunate.

6 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 28, 2024 12:03 PM in response to savvyblitzer

Note that while Shared Albums do not use your personal iCloud space, photos are reduced to 2048 pixels on the long edge and videos are reduced to 720p resolution. So photo size / resolution is reduced.

Shared Album limits - Apple Support

Using a Shared Library presumably leaves all photos and videos at their native resolution. I agree that the lack of a way to have a shared (event) album inside a shared library is unfortunate.

Aug 10, 2023 11:20 AM in response to savvyblitzer

I appreciate the answers. In trying to decide if and which I may want to use, I have to consider multiple factors, and that is difficult to gather in multipage documents. Is it possible for someone to create a simple table:


. Shared Library Shared Album

  • Access requires (or can) password from owner.
  • Access by anyone with link.
  • Accessible only to names of those pre-identified by owner.
  • Requires Apple ID.
  • Limited to x people
  • Must be Apple OS/IOS
  • Different photos may have different requirements.
  • Only an author can add/remove.
  • Only an author can edit/revise.
  • Size limitations:
  • Owner is limited to (x) albums or (y) libraries


I'm sure there may be other considerations. But a quick glance at a table like this can help anyone know if this is the right solution or not.

Jul 3, 2023 01:39 AM in response to muguy

As far as I can tell there is no ability for albums to be shared across the shared photo library? Is that correct?

So if I go to the effort of making an album of say photos from our trip at particular locations then no-one else in my family will be able to see the organised albums, however they will be able to see the photos as long as they are in the shared photo library?

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

Shared library vs shared album

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.