CompressA smaller file for the same video
A short video can still be too large for an upload form or message. Start with the size you need, then choose the quality and resolution that suit where the clip will be watched.
Compress creates a separate output. Keep the original and check the picture, sound and duration before sharing the smaller copy.
How to compress a video
- Choose your video
Open a short clip and check its duration, resolution and original size.
- Choose a target or quality
Use a maximum file size for an upload requirement. Use quality mode when detail matters more than a particular number.
- Preview the result
Check motion, fine text, audio and the first and last seconds of the clip.
- Download the smaller copy
Save the output when it looks right. Keep the source if you may edit it again.
Quality and resolution change different things
Lower quality can reduce encoded detail without changing the pixel dimensions. Lower resolution removes pixels as well. For screen recordings, keep the original resolution first so small text remains readable.
| Your video | Start with | Check the result |
|---|---|---|
| Phone footage | Balanced quality | Faces and motion |
| Screen recording | Original resolution | Small text and cursor |
| Presentation | Clear audio, moderate quality | Slide labels and speech |
Change one setting at a time and compare at the same display size. A complex moving scene may need more data than a still slide.
Compress video under an upload limit
Choose KB or MB, or use a common size preset. 1 MB equals 1,000 KB here. The target applies to each file in a batch; check the actual downloaded size before uploading elsewhere.
Target size mode automatically lowers quality and resolution to fit. Use Quality mode for manual control.
The original stays unchanged. Check the actual output size and dimensions, then compare the result before sharing.
Leave some room below the receiving service’s limit. Its current upload rules and any attachment overhead may affect what is accepted.
Video formats and playback
MP4, MOV and WebM are containers. Playback also depends on the video and audio inside them and the receiving device. Check the smaller file on the device or service where it will be used.
Format availability depends on your browser and the file.
Video compression questions
Video compression guides
Keep screen recordings readable — Check text before reducing the resolution.
Choose between quality and size — Understand what you trade for a smaller file.
Prepare a video for an upload form — Measure the output and keep your original.
Keep screen recordings readable
Keep the original resolution first. Play the smaller copy at its intended display size and check small text, cursor movements and slide labels before reducing pixels.
Choose between quality and size
Use quality mode to keep more detail, or target mode when you have an upload limit. A target is checked against the real output; it is not an exact-size promise.
Prepare a video for an upload form
Set a target slightly below the upload limit. After compression, check file size, duration and sound, then test the copy on the receiving service.
Compress MP4 video
Choose MP4 output and keep audio for broad playback support. If your browser cannot encode the source, try WebM or another supported browser.
Reduce a MOV recording
Open your MOV recording and export MP4 or WebM. MOV can contain different codecs; support depends on the source and your browser.
Understand WebM compatibility
WebM output uses VP9 video and Opus audio. Check that the destination accepts WebM before sharing it.