How do I compress a video to reduce its file size?

Short answer

Export an MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio, keep the source frame rate, and lower the resolution or bitrate only as far as the content allows. You usually need to compress only when a file is over your plan’s upload limit or takes too long to upload: Mindstamp encodes every uploaded video for adaptive streaming, so viewers get a version sized for their connection.

How to do it

1. Keep an untouched master copy before you make a smaller copy.
2. In your editor or converter, choose MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio.
3. Keep the same frame rate as the source.
4. Use 1080p for most landscape video. Test 720p if the video has no small text or detailed screens.
5. Lower the bitrate in small steps and compare faces, motion and on-screen text at full size.
6. Upload the smallest copy that still looks clear, then play it in the editor at full screen.

When compression helps

• The file is larger than your plan’s upload limit. See maximum video length and file size.
• Your upload connection is slow and a large file takes too long or stops.
• You host the file yourself as a single MP4, so every viewer downloads the same file. See self-hosting.

Protect legibility

Screen recordings, slides, subtitles burned into the picture and small product screens lose detail before talking-head footage does. Judge the export on the most detailed frame, not on the file size.

Upscaling cannot add detail that the source does not have. Do not export a 720p recording at 1080p to make it look sharper.

Tools you can use

Most video editors can export H.264 MP4 files, for example QuickTime Player, iMovie, Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve and HandBrake. Use the editor’s quality or constant-rate setting instead of a fixed small file size when you can.

Do not solve every speed problem in the file

If an embedded video is slow to start on your web page, the file size is rarely the cause. See how to reduce embed load time.

Go further

• New Video tutorial