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FLV vsWEBM: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

FLVWEBM
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.
MediumMedium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • video/x-flv
  • video/webm
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
NoYes

Technical Details

FLVWEBM
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.
VariableVariable (up to 8K and beyond)
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Variable (depends on codec)High (VP9/AV1 very efficient)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Sorenson Spark / VP6 / H.264 video, MP3/AAC audioVP8 / VP9 / AV1 video, Vorbis / Opus audio
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

FLVWEBM
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Adobe Flash Player (obsolete)
  • VLC
  • Some streaming sites (legacy)
  • Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera)
  • Android
  • VLC
  • YouTube
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Web video streaming (legacy Flash)
  • Early YouTube
  • 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

FLVWEBM
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Good for streaming in the Flash era
  • Relatively small file size
  • Open-source and royalty-free
  • Optimized for web streaming
  • High quality with efficient compression (especially VP9/AV1)
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Requires Flash Player (obsolete and insecure)
  • Replaced by HTML5 video (MP4, WebM)
  • Not supported by Safari before version 14.1
  • Less hardware decoding support than H.264