The world of multimedia content is constantly evolving. What changes are the messages, the stories, and the characters? The technical side, however, has also seen several changes with the arrival of new tools capable of conveying information. In this article, in particular, we will talk about the most common video formats, file extensions, and lighter alternatives from a hardware point of view. Let’s start this short journey by defining, above all, what is meant by video format.
What Are Video Formats?
Video file formats are the file types used to store digital videos. Each format has specific characteristics, including quality, file size, and compatibility with different devices. The most common video formats include:
- AVI;
- MPEG;
- MOV;
- WMV;
- FLV;
- MP4.
Let’s now see the lighter video formats’ characteristics, i.e., those with smaller dimensions.
What Is The Lightest Format For Videos?
The lightest video format is undoubtedly called FLV (Flash Video). Adobe Systems developed this solution and was mainly used for streaming video over the internet. The FLV format is very lightweight because it uses a video compression technology called Sorenson Spark, which allows you to maintain good quality with a small file size.
Another very lightweight format is MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14). This option was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group and is designed to be compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. The MP4 format uses a video compression technology called H.264, which gives good quality in often compact file sizes.
What Is The Best Video Format?
Choosing the best video format depends on the needs of those creating the content. If you need a lightweight design compatible with a wide range of devices, the MP4 format is a good choice. However, if quality is your top priority, you could opt for AVI or MPEG formats.
However, it must be said that these formats generate larger file sizes than other solutions. Instead of identifying a better video format a priori, discussing the appropriate form for the situation is better. Choosing the right compromise between quality and size allows you to convey content in the best way.
What Are MP4 Videos?
MP4 is one of the most common video formats in the world. The Moving Picture Experts Group developed this solution and uses a video compression technology called H.264, which allows you to obtain good video quality with a limited file size.
MP4 videos are compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, televisions, and DVD players. Furthermore, this format also supports high-definition audio and 3D. The MP4 format is also trendy for streaming videos over the internet. Many video streaming platforms, such as YouTube and Vimeo, use this format for content distribution.
What Is The Extension Of A Video File?
The extension of a video file indicates the file format. For example, a video file with the.avi extension suggests it is in the AVI format, while a file with the.mp4 extension means it is content in the MP4 format. There are many different video file extensions, including:
- .mov(QuickTime);
- .wmv (Windows Media Video);
- .flv (Flash Video);
- .mkv (Matroska Video).
Each extension corresponds to a specific format with its characteristics and limitations. In general, knowing the basic features of the various attachments is essential. For example, the MP4 format is often lightweight and compatible with multiple devices. If you are looking for very high-quality content, you will probably come across AVI or MPEG formats.
On Which Devices Can I Watch Videos?
The widespread diffusion of video formats has led to the proliferation of devices capable of reading files with different extensions. Remaining within the scope of appliances for domestic use, it is possible to recommend the purchase of universal disc players.
The Reavon UBR-X110 is a great example. It is a high-end device capable of reading media such as Ultra HD Blu-ray, Blu-ray, 3D, DVD, SACD, CD, and BD-Live. The supported video formats include MKV, which is widespread on the internet. But that’s not all because the HDMI ports of this player manage the 4K signal with Dolby Vision support for excellent HDR rendering. Another exciting product is the Egreat A11, a player with an Android operating system and full support for HDR10.
4K hardware decoding allows you to watch content of all types at its best, and the HDMI ports guarantee playback in 4K at 60 Hz. There is a wide range of connections, with USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi inputs. However, if you are exclusively interested in playing liquid music, you can read our special report on music streaming. The guide indicates the most significant platforms and some of the most exciting players in our catalog.
HiFi Prestige’s Offering Of Media Players
In conclusion, video formats are essential when working with digital video. Wanting to recap what has been written so far, it is possible to say that each design has specific characteristics, including quality, file size, and compatibility with different devices. Lighter video formats include FLV and MP4, while the most common alternatives are AVI, MPEG, MOV, WMV, FLV, and MP4.
Our offer of multimedia sources focuses mainly on music servers and audio players. However, universal devices are also available, allowing you to read various optical discs, depending on the case, and offer the possibility of exploiting multiple devices via USB or HDMI.
Also Read: 12 Soft Skills Helpful In Entering The World Of Work