What is a MP4 file?
MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) is the most widely supported video container, usually carrying H.264 or H.265 video with AAC audio. It was introduced in 2001 by ISO/IEC (MPEG).
What MP4 is good at
- Plays on virtually every phone, TV, browser and editor
- Good quality at small file sizes
- Works well for streaming and social media uploads
Where MP4 falls short
- Limited support for multiple subtitle formats
- Less flexible than MKV for chapters and many audio tracks
When to use MP4
- Uploading to YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp
- Sharing a video that has to play everywhere
- Web embedding
Where MP4 files open
MP4 files open in Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, smart TVs, game consoles and every major browser.
MP4 compared with MKV
MP4 or MKV? MP4 is best for uploading to YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. MKV is best for movie and TV archives with multiple languages. Convert MP4 to MKV or convert MKV to MP4.
Frequently asked questions
What is a MP4 file?
MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) is the most widely supported video container, usually carrying H.264 or H.265 video with AAC audio. It was introduced in 2001 by ISO/IEC (MPEG).
What are the advantages of MP4?
Plays on virtually every phone, tv, browser and editor; good quality at small file sizes; works well for streaming and social media uploads.
What are the drawbacks of MP4?
Limited support for multiple subtitle formats; less flexible than mkv for chapters and many audio tracks.
What programs open MP4 files?
MP4 files open in Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, smart TVs, game consoles and every major browser.
How do I convert a MP4 file?
Choose the MP4 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.