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3GP vsWEBM: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

3GPWEBM
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
videovideo
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LossyLossy
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
SmallMedium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • video/3gpp
  • video/webm
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
YesYes

Technical Details

3GPWEBM
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.
LowHigh (VP9/AV1 very efficient)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
MPEG-4 Part 2 / H.263 video, AAC/AMR audioVP8 / VP9 / AV1 video, Vorbis / Opus audio
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

3GPWEBM
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Older mobile phones
  • Some media players (VLC)
  • Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera)
  • Android
  • VLC
  • YouTube
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Multimedia messaging (MMS)
  • Video recording on basic phones (legacy)
  • HTML5 web video
  • Streaming (YouTube default)
  • WebRTC
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?
YesYes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?
--
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?
NoNo
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?
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Pros & Cons

3GPWEBM
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Very small file size
  • Designed for low-bandwidth mobile networks
  • Open-source and royalty-free
  • Optimized for web streaming
  • High quality with efficient compression (especially VP9/AV1)
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Low video quality
  • Largely obsolete
  • Limited compatibility
  • Not supported by Safari before version 14.1
  • Less hardware decoding support than H.264