Compress Video

FFmpeg settings

Compress video for smaller files and faster sharing

Upload one clip or a batch, adjust FFmpeg-backed settings, then compress and download individually or as a ZIP. The goal is practical delivery: smaller files for email, chat, CMS uploads, and playback on mobile networks without re-encoding by hand in a desktop editor for every export. For animated GIF files, compress GIF handles palette-aware optimization instead.

Compression is always a tradeoff between visual quality, encode time, and bytes on disk. This tool exposes the levers that usually matter first: quality target (CRF), encoder preset, max width, container choice, and audio size or removal.

Video compression quick reference

Typical size reduction
Often about 30% to 80% versus high-bitrate sources; already small clips may see little change
CRF range on this page
18 to 40; lower is higher quality and larger files; default 28 is a common middle ground for web
Preset tradeoff
veryfast to slow: faster presets encode quicker but may be less efficient at the same CRF
Max width
Caps the wider side (e.g. 1280) so 4K and 1080p sources shrink for small-screen and embed use

What the controls on this page do

  • Output format: MP4 (H.264) for maximum compatibility, or WebM (VP9) when you want a modern browser-first encode.
  • Preset: balances CPU time versus compression efficiency; slower presets squeeze more quality per megabyte at the cost of longer jobs.
  • CRF: primary quality knob; nudge down if you see blocking in dark or fast scenes, up if you need smaller files and detail still looks acceptable.
  • Max width: downscales wide frames before encode so bitrate spends on fewer pixels—often the cleanest way to hit a size cap.
  • Audio bitrate / remove audio: lowers audio payload or strips the track entirely for silent screen recordings and B-roll.

Tradeoffs and a safe compression workflow

Re-encoding is lossy for typical delivery codecs: each generation can add softness, banding, or ringing. Treat outputs here as sharing copies and keep a master file when you might edit, grade, or re-export later.

If the list shows a larger output than the source, the source may already be heavily compressed or the chosen settings prioritize quality. Try a higher CRF, a lower max width, or a slower preset before chasing extreme CRF values alone.

When not to compress here (or not aggressively)

  • Masters and archives: do not replace camera originals or project exports you may reopen in an NLE.
  • Legal or compliance review: do not re-encode evidence or signed-off cuts without workflow approval.
  • Broadcast or print-adjacent pipelines: use facility-approved specs; browser tools are for web-oriented delivery, not spec sheets.

MP4 vs WebM, bitrate, and where artifacts show first

Both formats are lossy in normal use. Blocking and mosquito noise often appear first around motion, thin lines, and low light. Text overlays and UI screen recordings need enough bitrate (or low enough resolution) to stay legible—if type looks crunchy, prefer lowering max width before pushing CRF to extremes. When WebM is your only target, the dedicated MP4 to WebM tool offers the same VP9 encoder controls in a slightly streamlined form.

Compress video questions, answered

What does CRF mean for video compression?

CRF (Constant Rate Factor) is a quality-oriented control: lower values keep more detail and larger files, higher values shrink faster with more visible loss in motion, gradients, and fine texture. It works together with preset and resolution, not in isolation.

Should I pick MP4 or WebM for output?

MP4 with H.264 is the widest compatibility default for sharing and embeds. WebM with VP9 can be smaller at similar perceived quality in some clips, but support varies outside modern browsers. Match the destination you are uploading to.

Will compressing video reduce file size every time?

Usually for high-bitrate sources, but not guaranteed. If the input is already heavily compressed, exports can be similar size or slightly larger depending on encoder settings. Use the before and after sizes in the list to judge each file.

When should I avoid aggressive video compression?

Skip heavy compression for master archives, color grading, VFX plates, or client delivery before final approval. Keep originals and use compressed outputs only for web, messaging, or tight upload limits.