What is a TS file?
TS (MPEG Transport Stream) is the transport container used by digital TV broadcasts and as the segment format of HLS streaming. It was introduced in 1995 by MPEG / ITU.
What TS is good at
- Resilient to errors in broadcast streams
- Used by HLS live streaming
- Can be joined by simple concatenation
Where TS falls short
- No index, so seeking can be slower
- Not meant for everyday sharing
When to use TS
- HLS segment workflows
- Recording or editing broadcast TV
- Streaming servers
Where TS files open
TS files open in VLC, Kodi, most smart TVs, Windows and Android.
TS compared with MP4
TS or MP4? TS is best for HLS segment workflows. MP4 is best for uploading to YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and WhatsApp. Convert TS to MP4 or convert MP4 to TS.
Frequently asked questions
What is a TS file?
TS (MPEG Transport Stream) is the transport container used by digital TV broadcasts and as the segment format of HLS streaming. It was introduced in 1995 by MPEG / ITU.
What are the advantages of TS?
Resilient to errors in broadcast streams; used by hls live streaming; can be joined by simple concatenation.
What are the drawbacks of TS?
No index, so seeking can be slower; not meant for everyday sharing.
What programs open TS files?
TS files open in VLC, Kodi, most smart TVs, Windows and Android.
How do I convert a TS file?
Choose the TS 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.