Video · 2 min read
Video formats explained
MP4, MOV, WebM, AVI and MKV all store video, but they serve different purposes. This guide explains how they differ, where they play, and which one to choose for phones, websites, editing and archiving.
Updated: November 2, 2026
MP4
MP4 is the most universal video format. It usually contains H.264 video and AAC audio, so it plays on phones, computers, TVs and social networks. If you need to send a video that is guaranteed to play, choose MP4.
MOV
MOV is Apple’s format, used by iPhone and Final Cut Pro. It works well for editing and storing video in the Apple ecosystem, but may not open on Android or in some social networks. MOV is often converted to MP4 for sharing.
WebM
WebM is an open web format based on VP9 or AV1. It offers good compression and is supported by modern browsers, but does not always play on mobile devices and TVs. For websites, WebM can be smaller than MP4.
AVI and MKV
AVI is an older container found in archives and on old cameras. It may contain codecs that modern devices do not support, so AVI is often converted to MP4.
MKV is a flexible container that supports multiple audio tracks and subtitles. It is convenient for storing movies but poorly suited to mobile devices and social networks. MKV is converted to MP4 for compatibility.
Which one to choose
- Phone, social media, sending: MP4 (H.264/AAC).
- Editing on a Mac: MOV or MP4.
- Websites: MP4 or WebM, depending on support.
- Archives: MKV if tracks and subtitles matter.
- Short chat animation: GIF, but mind the size.
Our converter supports MP4, MOV, WebM, AVI, MKV and GIF. Video is processed on the server and the result is deleted automatically.
Questions and answers
Which video format is the most compatible?
MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio. It plays on iPhone, Android, TVs, social networks and most editors.
What is the difference between MOV and MP4?
Both are based on the ISO BMFF container, but MOV is Apple-oriented and used by Final Cut, while MP4 targets broad compatibility. MP4 is usually the safer choice for sending.
Why use WebM?
WebM is an open web format with efficient compression. It works well on websites but does not always play on phones and TVs.
Is MKV better than MP4?
MKV is more flexible: it supports multiple tracks and subtitles. MP4 is more convenient for mobile devices and social networks.