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MKV vsMP4: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

	MKV	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.	Large	Medium
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.	video/x-matroska	video/mp4
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?	Yes	Yes

Technical Details

	MKV	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.	Variable (up to 8K and beyond)	Variable (up to 8K and beyond)
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.	High (depends on codec)	High (depends on codec and bitrate)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.	Various (H.264, H.265, VP9, AV1 video; AAC, AC3, DTS, Opus audio)	Various (H.264, H.265, AAC, MP3)
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.	-	-

Features & Usage

	MKV	MP4
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.	VLC Plex Kodi Windows 10+ Many modern media players/TVs	Universal compatibility Web Browsers Smartphones Tablets TVs Game consoles
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.	Storing movies and TV shows High-definition video playback Archiving video with multiple tracks	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

	MKV	MP4
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.	Open standard container format Supports multiple video/audio/subtitle tracks Flexible and feature-rich Good for high-definition content	Excellent compatibility Good balance of quality and file size Standard for web video and streaming Supports metadata, subtitles
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.	Not natively supported by Apple devices/QuickTime Can sometimes have playback issues if uncommon codecs are used	Technically a container, quality depends on codec used Licensing/patent considerations for codecs (H.264/H.265)