Compare Video Formats

Download CodecWhat to compare video formats? If you have ever wondered what the different types of video formats there are then this should solve that question. Some video formats are better than others and you will need to decide what quality of movie you want as the file size and compression ratios differ.

Compare Video Formats

Note that these are file formats where the windows file .AVI is the most common file format used today. WMV is a Microsoft video format. It was the first codec used to stream video on the internet.  This is not last long as MP4 / AVCHD for HD video arrived and displaced it.

MPEG2 (MOV) is however still the best quality of the high compression video codecs, that is what is used for HDTV and DVD movies. MPEG4 is similar but uses a large fixed GOF optimized for internet streaming of HD content where blurring of action is acceptable. See also the article on Convert GMP4 to AVI as well as the comparing Jpeg 2000 vs Jpeg. Finally also see the features of Jpeg 2000 while you are here. Now there are a number of video formats that are commonly used. Bote however that each has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Video Formats

The MP4 is one of the most popular video formats. It is used and by that widely supported on many devices and platforms.

The AVI is another widely used video format. It is known for its compatibility with older devices and operating systems.

Also the MOV format is an older format which was developed by Apple, and it is commonly used on Mac OS devices.

The WMV is a format which was developed by Microsoft, and it is commonly used on Windows devices.

Also the FLV format commonly used for streaming video over the internet, particularly for web-based video players.

This is a much newer being the  WebM is an open-source video format developed by Google, and it is commonly used for web-based video streaming.

See the MPEG-2 is a video format commonly used for broadcast television and DVD discs.

There are many other video formats available. Having said that these are some of the most commonly used ones. The choice of video format will depend on factors such as the intended use of the video, the devices or platforms it needs to be compatible with, and the desired file size and quality. See also the Ogg Vorbis ACM Codec as well as the MKV Codec for Windows 7 and others.