H.264 vs H.265: Size, Speed and Compatibility

Updated: 12/17/2025

H.264 vs H.265

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H.264 vs H.265 for YouTube: Which Codec?
H.264 vs H.265 Comparison (4K)

Size vs quality

H.265 smaller at similar quality
H.264 larger but widely supported

Encoding speed

H.265 slower to encode
H.264 faster, good default

Compatibility

H.264 plays everywhere
H.265 may need newer devices or players

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H.264 vs H.265: Size, Speed and Compatibility | Vibbit