Large video files can be very difficult to upload and host. Usually, compressing video files to smaller sizes works best for everybody, unless you need the highest resolution. Smaller sized videos consume less bandwidth and reduce both download and upload time. So, how exactly do you compress a video without significantly compromising its quality?
This post will subsequently reveal 3 of the simplest ways that you can use to compress large video files and still preserve the quality of the video.
1. Movavi Video Converter
Platform: Mac & Windows
Features: supports over 180 media formats, super-fast rendering speed, capable of converting video, music and images, comes with an easy to use video editor.
Free Trial: Yes
The primary function of the Movavi Video Converter is to convert video format, which it does effortlessly. But there is also more to it. Movavi is also able to convert both audio, video-to-audio and even images. Also, Movavi can compress videos files without zero quality loss. Compressed videos come out sharp, not shaky, renders perfectly and with no watermarks.
How to Compress Video Files With Movavi Video Converter
Step 1: Download and install Movavi Converter on Your PC
Follow the link to download the program. Once you do, open the download file and follow the instructions to install on your PC (Mac & Windows).
Step 2: Select Video File(s) You Wish To Compress
After launching the program, navigate to the Add Media option and then select Add Video at the top left corner of the interface. Choose one or multiple video files of your choice.
Step 3: Select Your Preset and Customize Video Settings
Select the Video tab, and select your preferred video format, like AVI, MP4 (supported by most mobile devices and computers) from the list.
Pro tip: If you are looking to considerably reduce video size and preserve quality then consider using a new video codec like H.264 that offers better video quality at smaller file sizes.
The software will estimate the size of the video once it has been exported. If you further wish to reduce the file size, then click on the File size value and then adjust the File size bar on the popup window. This will automatically adjust the size of the video.
Step 4: Choose the Quality and Size of the Output Video File
The file bitrate value largely determines the quality and size of the output video: the higher the bitrate, the better the quality of the video and the higher its size. Decreasing the bitrate value is crucial to reducing the size of the video.
To open the size adjustment window, click on the estimated size value of the output video. Drag and adjust the file size slider to your preferred output file size. Once you click the Convert Sample option, you can check the quality of the video after conversion.
2. VLC Media Player
Platform: Mac & Windows
Features: Free, Expandable with plugins, Good file format support
Free Trial: Yes
VLC Media Player is one of the most versatile and widely used media player available. However, not many people are aware of the true abilities of the VLC player asides from playing files. This media player can also convert video formats. Also, VLC can also be used to compress the size of a video.
How to Compress Video Files with VLC Media Player
1. If you don’t have it already, download and install VLC media player and then click on the Media option on the menu bar.
2. Navigate to the end of the menu and select the Convert/save option.
3. To add the video you want to compress, click on the Add button option.
4. Select your preferred destination folder, your file name, and video output format in the profile section. You may compress your video files in a different format including Ogg, mp4, and Divx).
5. You can also try compressing your video file size by reducing its audio and video bitrate; however, this will drastically reduce the quality of the video.
6. Once you have chosen your preferred video settings, hit the Save button, and click Start to compress the video.
3. Shotcut
Platform: Mac, Windows & Linux
Features: Completely free, a variety of output formats, filter effects and Chroma keying
Free Trial: Yes
Slightly less popular than its other counterparts, Shotcut is a recommended choice for those looking to compress the size of their video for free. Built to be more of an editor than a video player, Shotcut has a range of advanced features to help you edit videos.
The process for compressing the size of a video on Shotcut isn’t very apparent, so we will run you through it.
1. Download and install Shotcut on your computer. Navigate and click on the Open File option to select your target video.
2. On the top right corner of the interface, click Export. On the export menu, you can choose a variety of formats, set your video resolution and aspect ratio to your preferred choice.
Pro tip: generally, choose the H.264 Baseline Profile (this format works best since it will reduce the video size and won’t take away much of its quality).
3. Once you are happy with all the video parameters, hit the Export file button to compress and save the final video.
Hey, My name is Paul – nice to e-meet you 🙂 I’m a freelance video editor who has over 4 years experiences of making all types of videos. I founded this website to provide step-by-step and easy-to-follow instructions to first-time editors or beginners like you who want to start their journey in video editing.
