What is a AVI file?
AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is an older Microsoft container that is still found on legacy PCs, DVD players and old camcorders. It was introduced in 1992 by Microsoft.
What AVI is good at
- Plays on very old software and hardware
- Simple structure
- Accepted by many classic DVD and USB players
Where AVI falls short
- No modern features such as streaming or rich subtitles
- Less efficient, so files are larger
- Poor support for H.265
When to use AVI
- Older DVD or USB players
- Legacy editing software
- Retro hardware that only reads AVI
Where AVI files open
AVI files open in Windows, VLC, many older TVs, DVD players and car media players.
AVI compared with MP4
AVI or MP4? AVI is best for older DVD or USB players. MP4 is best for uploading to YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. Convert AVI to MP4 or convert MP4 to AVI.
Frequently asked questions
What is a AVI file?
AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is an older Microsoft container that is still found on legacy PCs, DVD players and old camcorders. It was introduced in 1992 by Microsoft.
What are the advantages of AVI?
Plays on very old software and hardware; simple structure; accepted by many classic dvd and usb players.
What are the drawbacks of AVI?
No modern features such as streaming or rich subtitles; less efficient, so files are larger; poor support for h.265.
What programs open AVI files?
AVI files open in Windows, VLC, many older TVs, DVD players and car media players.
How do I convert a AVI file?
Choose the AVI converter you need from the list on this page, drop in your file and press Convert. You get your new file in seconds, free and without sign-up.