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MP4 vsWEBM: Key Differences & Best Format for You

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

Basic Information

MP4WEBM
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/mp4
  • video/webm
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
YesYes

Technical Details

MP4WEBM
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 and bitrate)High (VP9/AV1 very efficient)
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
Various (H.264, H.265, AAC, MP3)VP8 / VP9 / AV1 video, Vorbis / Opus audio
Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

MP4WEBM
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Universal compatibility
  • Web Browsers
  • Smartphones
  • Tablets
  • TVs
  • Game consoles
  • Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Opera)
  • Android
  • VLC
  • YouTube
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Web video streaming
  • Online video platforms (YouTube, Vimeo)
  • Mobile video
  • General video sharing
  • 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?
--

Pros & Cons

MP4WEBM
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Excellent compatibility
  • Good balance of quality and file size
  • Standard for web video and streaming
  • Supports metadata, subtitles
  • Open-source and royalty-free
  • Optimized for web streaming
  • High quality with efficient compression (especially VP9/AV1)
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Technically a container, quality depends on codec used
  • Licensing/patent considerations for codecs (H.264/H.265)
  • Not supported by Safari before version 14.1
  • Less hardware decoding support than H.264