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Get your content online and optimized much faster using a video compressor. Finding the best video shrinker for your needs is easy when you know what to look for.
We'll explain what a video compressor is, what to consider when choosing one, plus we’ll provide reviews and our top picks for the best video compressors available.
What is a Video Compressor?
A video compressor is a tool that reduces the size of video files by removing data from a file or reorganizing how file data is stored. Video compressors use a video codec, which is a piece of software that compresses and decompresses digital video, to convert raw video into a playable digital format. You can download a converter to your desktop or compress videos directly in your browser with an online compression tool.
Why Do You Need a Video Compressor?
There are many advantages to using a video compressor:
- Reducing video file size with a compressor frees up space on your system and makes it easier to send and share videos online.
- You can use a compressor to convert video file formats to make videos payable on different devices.
- Smaller video files are easier to upload and won’t affect the load time of a website when they’re added to them.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Video Compressor
Before selecting a video compression tool, you need to make sure it has all of the features you need and that it’s compatible with the other hardware and software you’re using. Keep the following key considerations in mind when selecting a video compressor tool.
Lossy vs. Lossless
Lossy compression makes video files smaller by removing some of the data from the file, which results in a loss in image quality. Lossless compressors don't lose any quality during conversion because they store data more efficiently. Many video compressors are capable of both lossy and lossless compression.
File Formats
It’s important to select a compressor that supports the video codec and output formats you work with. Be sure to check the audio and video inputs and outputs in the technical specs of any video size compressor you’re considering.
Speed
Some compressors use a lot of system resources and can take a while to compress a single video file. Many of the best free video compressors use GPU acceleration to speed up the conversion process. GPU acceleration uses your graphics card to boost conversion speed and minimize the use of your system resources.
Budget
Have a clear idea of how much you’re willing to spend on a video compressor. You can usually buy an annual or lifetime license to use a particular compressor. There are also many free options on the market for those who are on a budget or who only need a compressor every now and then.
Ease of Use
If you don't have a lot of technical experience, try to find a video size reducer with a simple interface and easy-to-use features. Those with more video production experience should check that a compressor has all of the features they need. Use free trial periods to test out different compressors before committing to one.
15 Best Free and Paid Video Compressors For 2024
With so many options out there, it can be hard to find the best video compressor for your needs. We’ve reviewed some of the best free and paid video compression software options on the market to help you narrow down your search. Keep reading to learn more about the features of the 15 best video compressors to find the right one for you.
1. Riverside Free Online Video Compressor
Price: Free
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, WEBM, WMV
Compatibility: Mac and Windows
Compressing videos online with Riverside is free, fast, and easy. All compression is done online, which means this free tool is compatible with Mac and Windows devices.
The compressor has a drag and drop feature. This allows you to drop your video files directly into your browser window and start reducing its size instantly.
But it also offers the ability to adjust your compression settings and method, such as based on your target file size or video quality.
2. Freemake Video Converter
Price: Free
Type: Lossy and Lossless
Supported formats: MP4, AVI, MKV, WMV, MP3, DVD, 3GP, SWF, FLV, HD, MOV, RM, QT, Divx, Xvid, TS, MTS
Compatibility: Windows
The Freemake Video Converter is simple to use and only requires a couple of clicks to get your video conversion started. This online video converter is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and Vista and comes with preset features that allow you to convert videos for Apple devices, Android devices, and consoles like Xbox. The program comes with an editor that enables you to cut, merge, rotate, and remove black bars from clips before you convert them to the file type of your choice. Freemake Video Converter can convert HD videos in 4K and Full HD 1080p without losing quality.
3. FreeConvert
Price: Free, $9.99/month, $14.99/month, $25.99/month
Type: Lossy and Lossless
Supported formats: H.265, H.264, DivX, M4V, MP4, MPEG, AVI, MOV, WMV, TS, MOD
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
FreeConvert allows you to customize the resolution, file size, video quality, and more for your video outputs. There are several monthly plans available and if you’re willing to pay more, you’ll get larger max file sizes and more conversion minutes per month. Conversion with FreeConvert is intuitive and the compressor has batch conversion features.
4. Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate
Price: Free 7-day trial, $29 for a 1-year license, $56.20 for a lifetime license
Type: Lossy
Supported formats: Over 1000 formats including MP4, AVI, MOV, WMV, MP3, FLAC, WMA
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate uses Blu-Hyper technology, which gives it a superfast compression speed. The software converts videos in a matter of minutes, even videos in 4K and HD. It supports all encoding formats, including H.265/HEVC, H.264, Xvid, VP8, and VP9. The program also has a batch conversion feature Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate comes with video editing software you can use to rotate, crop, trim, and merge video files. It also has advanced editing features with filters and 3D effects.
5. Movavi Video Converter
Price: Free 7-day trial, $54.95 for a 1-year license, $64.95 for a lifetime license
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: AVI, MP4 (MPEG-4), MOV, 3GP, FLV, MKV, WMV, MP3, WAV
Compatibility: Mac and Windows
Movavi Video Converter is easy to use and comes with a built-in editor that allows you to rotate, crop, and merge video files. Movavi Converter has a batch conversion feature and offers high-speed conversions. After converting videos, you can use the program to easily transfer files to a desktop or mobile device. Movavi offers a free 7-day trial so you can try the video converter for free before buying a license.
6. VideoProc
Price: Free trial version, $38.90 for a 1-year license, $39.95 for a lifetime license
Type: Lossy (only pixel-level quality difference)
Supported formats: M2V, AVI, MKV, MMV, DIV, MOD, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, H.265/HEVC, MOV, MP2V, MP4, MPE, MPEG, DivX, MPEG2, MPEG4, MPG, MPG4, VP8, VP9, VPX, WMV
Compatibility: Mac and Windows
VideoProc uses Level-3 GPU acceleration to convert video files quickly, including large files and 4K video, no matter the speed of the system you’re using. This video file compressor has features for batch conversion and resizing. The software comes with intuitive editing features that allow you to stabilize recorded video, remove noise, and add filters. You can also cut, merge, crop, and rotate files. VideoProc also includes a screen recorder and built-in webcam recorder software.
7. HandBreak
Price: Free
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: H.264(x264 and QuickSync), H.265 (x265 and QuickSync), H.265 MPEG-4 and MPEG-2, VP8, VP9,Theora, MP4, MKV
Compatibility: Mac, Windows, and Linux
HandBreak is an open-source and free-to-use video compression tool with built-in presets that allow you to quickly convert videos so they’re optimized for any device type. However, this online video compressor isn’t very user-friendly and you need a bit of experience compressing video files to get the most out of its features. The program comes with a video editor that allows you to crop videos, apply filters, and tweak frame rates. HandBreak also has batch conversion and file queuing features.
8. VLC
Price: Free
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: H.263, H.264, MPEG-4, MOV, AVI, MPEG-2, WAV, MP4, FLV
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android
VLC is a free open-source software that plays most types of media files and allows you to compress video files. The free video converter has an interface that’s straightforward and simple to use. It may take longer to compress video and audio with VLC because the program isn’t as fast as most of the other free and paid options. However, VLC is a good option because it’s a free mp4 compressor and you can export videos in almost any output format. If you already use VLC to play audio and video files, you can use the program’s compression features without having to download or pay for any additional compression software.
9. Any Video Converter Ultimate
Price: Free Trial, $49.95 for a Windows lifetime license, $54.95 for a Mac lifetime license
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: MP4, AVI, WMV, MOV, M4V, MKV, MPEG, FLV, H.263, MPEG, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MPEG-5, Theora, VP8, HEVC/H.265
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Any Video Converter offers lossless compression with drag-and-drop features that make it easy for anyone to use. This online video compressor allows users to download and convert Google and YouTube videos easily with URL links. The Any Video Converter user interface is simple, clean, and easy to use. You can quickly edit video files with the converter’s trim, crop, and merge features.
10. VideoSolo Video Converter Ultimate
Price: Free trial, $39.99 for a one-year subscription, $49.95 for a single lifetime license, $79.95 for 2-5 lifetime licenses
Type: Lossy or Lossless
Supported formats: H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, AVI, ASF, MKV, MOV, MPG, TS, WMV, MP4, MPG, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.264, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, DivX, XviD, FLV, M4V
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
VideoSolo is easy to use and supports GPU acceleration to provide conversion times that are 6x faster than normal. This converter features an mp4 file compressor and includes device presets so your videos are optimized for devices like iPhones, PS4s, or smart TVs. VideoSolo allows you to adjust the brightness, contrast, and add filters to your video files.
11. VSDC
Price: Free
Type: Lossy or Lossless
Supported formats: H.264/AVC, AVCHD, MKV, TOD/MOD, TS, DVD, AVI, MPEG, WMV, ASF, FLV, SWF, MOV, MP4 and M4V, RM and RMVB
Compatibility: Windows
VSDC uses high-quality video processing algorithms and GPU-accelerated conversion to compress and convert video files. This free video compressor has features for merging or splitting files and a built-in video editor. VCDS doesn't place a watermark on video outputs and is easy for beginners to use.
12. Media.io Video Compressor
Price: Free plan, Basic plan: $3.95/month, Pro plan: $6.66/month
Type: Lossy or Lossless
Supported formats: MPEG, DIVX, AVI, M4V, MOV, TS, WMV, XVID, SWF, FLV, MP4
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Media.io is easy to use and supports compression in up to 1080p resolution. You can use Media.io Video Compressor as a video compressor online in a browser without having to download video compression software. This compressor allows you to customize your output settings to adjust things like video resolution, output size, bitrate, and format.
13. CyberLink PowerDirector 365
Price: $19.99/month or $69.99/year
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: DivX, HD MPEG-2, DVR-MS, DV-AVI, DAT, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, VOB, VRO, ASF, WMV, WMV HD, MOV, MOD, TOD AVCHD, MPEG-4, AVC (H.264), TS, WTV
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Though PowerDirector 365 has a lot of great conversion and editing features, it may be overkill for those looking for a simple video compressor. This video compressor software allows you to edit and export videos in up to 4K resolution. In addition to tools for video conversion, PowerDirector 365 includes multi-track timeline video editing and sharing features that all you to upload your videos right to Facebook, YouTube, and other platforms.
14. Gilisoft Video Converter
Price: $39.95 for a one-year license, $49.95 for a lifetime license, $149.95 for three lifetime licenses
Type: Lossy or Lossless
Supported formats: H.265, MP4, MKW.4K, MPEG-4, DivX, Xvid, H.264, AVI, MKV, FLV, WMV, MOV, TS
Compatibility: Windows
GiliSoft Video Converter has a simple interface that lets even beginners merge, cut, rotate, and edit video files easily. It supports many output formats and compressed videos can be shared easily online. Gilisoft Video Converter uses GPU acceleration and converts 4K videos to WMV, MOV, AVI, and other formats.
15. WonderShare UniConverter
Price: $59.99 for one year, $79.99 for two years, or $99.99 for a lifetime license
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: MPEG-4, AVI, XVID, DIVX, MPEG-4, FLV, MKV, MOV, MP4
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
Wondershare UniConverter has everything you need to convert, compress, and edit videos. This video compressor uses GPU acceleration and has batch conversion capabilities. The easy-to-use video editor allows even beginners to quickly trim, cut, and crop videos. You can also add effects, subtitles, or watermarks to your video using the editor.
16. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe
Price: Free trial version, $19.95 for a 1-year license, $39.95 for a lifetime license
Type: Lossless
Supported formats: 4K MP4, 2K MP4, MP4, H.264, AVI, WMV, HEVC/H.265, AVC, MOV, M4V, MKV, MPEG1, MPEG2, RM, 3G2, 3GP, ASF, WebM (VP8), FLV, F4V, SWF, DV
Compatibility: Windows and Mac
You can use WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe to reduce video file size by up to 90% without losing any quality. It has an intuitive user interface and allows you to easily convert videos so they’re optimized for mobile devices. The software also allows you to quickly transcode videos for sharing on major social platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe uses GPU acceleration to quickly convert large 4K and 1080p videos without using many of your system’s resources. The program’s built-in editor includes features for adding subtitles and for cutting, cropping, and merging video clips.
Which is the Best Overall Video Compressor?
We’ve chosen WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe as the best overall video compressor on our list based on price and the number of features you get. A lifetime license for the WinX converter is fairly priced and the software uses lossless compression to reduce video file size by up to 90%. The compressor uses GPU acceleration so it can convert large, or multiple, files quickly without using many of your system resources.
What is the Best Free Video Compressor?
Our pick for the best free video compressor is Riverside's Video Compressor. This compressor provides lossless conversion for free. It’s easy to use and comes with built-in presets so you can reduce your videos' size straight away.
What is the Best Way to Compress Videos?
A video compressor is the best way to reduce video size without losing quality. A lot of compressors have presets for adjusting settings so you get the best quality video for the platform you want to share it on. You can also make a file smaller by converting it to a zip file on a Mac or Windows device.
Conclusion
There are plenty of great free and paid options out there if you’re looking for a video converter for your video production needs. Knowing the file formats you’re going to be working with and understanding system compatibility will make your search much better. Know the features you’re looking for in a converter and how much you want to spend on one before you begin searching for a compressor.
Video Compressors FAQs
Do you still have questions about compressing videos or video compressor software? Check out our frequently asked questions section for answers to common queries about how to compress a video.
Does compressing a video reduce size?
Yes, compressing videos reduces their size. This makes it easier to share them online. If you’re looking for a video compressor tool, check out our free and paid recommendations in the article above.
How do I compress a 1GB video to 10MB?
The best way to compress a 1GB video down to 10MB is with a video compressor. There are many free and paid video file size reducer programs available online. Check the list in the article above to find the best video compressor app for your needs.
How can I compress a 1080p video without losing quality?
You can use a video compressor free online to reduce the size of a 1080p video without losing quality. There are many free lossless video compressors that support 1080p videos.
Is VLC a video compressor?
Yes, VLC can be used to compress videos and reduce file size. Browse other free and paid video compressor options in the article above.
