Reduce File Size of a MP4: A Comprehensive Guide
Do you find your MP4 files taking up too much space on your device? Are you looking for ways to compress your videos without sacrificing quality? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore various methods to reduce the file size of your MP4 videos, ensuring that you can save space and share your videos more easily.
Understanding MP4 File Format
Before diving into the methods to reduce the file size of your MP4 videos, it’s essential to understand the MP4 file format. MP4, which stands for Moving Picture Experts Group 4, is a widely used container format for storing digital audio and video. It supports various audio and video codecs, such as H.264, H.265, AAC, and MP3.
1. Use a Video Compression Tool
One of the most straightforward ways to reduce the file size of your MP4 videos is by using a video compression tool. These tools are designed to compress videos while maintaining the highest possible quality. Here are some popular video compression tools:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| HandBrake | Open-source video transcoder that supports a wide range of input and output formats. |
| FFmpeg | Command-line tool that can be used to convert, stream, and record audio and video data. |
| Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate | Comprehensive video converter that offers various features, including video compression, editing, and downloading. |
2. Adjust Video Resolution and Bitrate
Another effective way to reduce the file size of your MP4 videos is by adjusting the video resolution and bitrate. The resolution refers to the number of pixels in the video, while the bitrate represents the amount of data processed per second. Here’s how you can adjust these settings:
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Open your video editing software and import your MP4 video.
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Select the export or share option and choose MP4 as the format.
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Adjust the resolution and bitrate settings. Lowering the resolution and bitrate will reduce the file size, but it may also affect the video quality.
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Export the video with the new settings.
3. Use Online Video Compression Tools
Online video compression tools are a convenient way to reduce the file size of your MP4 videos without installing any software. These tools are typically free and easy to use. Here are some popular online video compression tools:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Smallpdf | Online tool that offers video compression, along with other PDF-related features. |
| Clideo | Free online video compression tool that supports various video formats. |
| Online-Convert | Online video converter and compressor that supports a wide range of formats. |
4. Optimize Audio Settings
Audio can significantly contribute to the file size of your MP4 videos. By optimizing the audio settings, you can reduce the file size without affecting the overall quality. Here are some tips:
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Lower the audio bitrate. The standard audio bitrate for MP4 videos is 192 kbps, but you can reduce it to 128 kbps or even 96 kbps without noticing a significant difference in quality.
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Convert the audio to a more efficient codec, such as AAC or MP3.
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Remove any unnecessary audio tracks
