Video Compression Methods: CRF, Bitrate, Resize

For broad compatibility and good quality, H.264 is a dependable choice that plays smoothly on older devices and across most browsers without requiring special hardware support.

When targeting higher resolutions or smaller file sizes at the same perceived quality, H.265 (HEVC) generally achieves better compression efficiency than H.264, while AV1 can further reduce size but often needs more encoding time and newer playback support.

Use CRF to control visual quality directly: lower numbers increase quality and file size, while higher numbers reduce size at the cost of more visible compression; typical ranges like CRF 18–28 provide an excellent balance for web delivery.

Pair CRF with encoder presets thoughtfully: slower presets spend more time to preserve fine detail at the same CRF value, whereas faster presets trade encoding time for speed and may introduce slightly more artifacts.

If you need a simple, predictable reduction, percentage‑based compression provides a direct way to target a smaller file while still allowing the encoder to balance quality and bitrate automatically.

For streaming constraints or strict delivery requirements, set a maximum or target bitrate so that the encoder avoids spikes that could exceed your network or platform limitations.

Prefer variable bitrate (VBR) with a sensible maximum for quality efficiency, or use constant bitrate (CBR) when the playback environment requires tightly controlled throughput.

Downscaling from 1080p to 720p or from 4K to 1080p can dramatically reduce file size while still delivering clean visuals for mobile and web contexts.

Reducing frame rate from 60 fps to 30 fps decreases the number of frames that must be encoded and can substantially cut the bitrate needed for smooth playback.

Set AAC around 128–192 kbps for general distribution or consider Opus at roughly 96–160 kbps for modern, efficient audio that remains clear for dialog and music.

Maintain sensible sample rates and channels: voice‑only content can switch to mono to save space, whereas music or complex soundscapes often benefit from stereo at moderate bitrates.

Slow presets spend more time and preserve detail better at the same CRF, while fast presets complete quickly but typically produce slightly larger files or more artifacts, so choose according to your deadline and quality target.

Open the Vibbit Video Compressor and apply these settings step by step: /tools/video-compress

Troubleshooting failed video uploads

MP4 format introduction

MOV format introduction

MKV format introduction