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3GP vsMP4: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of 3GP and MP4 file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

	3GP	MP4
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).	video	video
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).	Lossy	Lossy
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.	Small	Medium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.	video/3gpp	video/mp4
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?	Yes	Yes

Technical Details

	3GP	MP4
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).	-	-
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.	Low (e.g., QCIF 176x144)	Variable (up to 8K and beyond)
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.	Low	High (depends on codec and bitrate)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.	MPEG-4 Part 2 / H.263 video, AAC/AMR audio	Various (H.264, H.265, AAC, MP3)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.	-	-

Features & Usage

	3GP	MP4
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.	Older mobile phones Some media players (VLC)	Universal compatibility Web Browsers Smartphones Tablets TVs Game consoles
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.	Multimedia messaging (MMS) Video recording on basic phones (legacy)	Web video streaming Online video platforms (YouTube, Vimeo) Mobile video General video sharing
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?	Yes	Yes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?	-	-
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?	No	No
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?	-	-

Pros & Cons

	3GP	MP4
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.	Very small file size Designed for low-bandwidth mobile networks	Excellent compatibility Good balance of quality and file size Standard for web video and streaming Supports metadata, subtitles
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.	Low video quality Largely obsolete Limited compatibility	Technically a container, quality depends on codec used Licensing/patent considerations for codecs (H.264/H.265)