File Format Guide
What is a .MP4 file?
The MP4 format (short for MPEG-4 Part 14) is a video format that uses lossy compression, trading some fine detail for much smaller files. It acts as a container that packages video and audio streams together for playback. MP4 files open natively in every modern web browser.
.MP4 at a glance
| Category | Video |
|---|---|
| Type | Video |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Animation / motion | No |
| Open standard | No |
| Opens in web browsers | Yes |
| Typical file size | Small |
How to open a .MP4 file
You can open MP4 files with every device, every browser, and every editor. If a program on your device cannot read one, the quickest fix is to convert it to a more common format — no software install required.
MP4 pros and cons
Strengths
- plays on virtually every device and platform
- efficient H.264/H.265 compression
- the default for streaming and social media
Limitations
- lossy compression
- fewer advanced features than MKV
What .MP4 files are used for
- web and mobile video
- social media uploads
- general sharing
Need to convert a .MP4 file?
Convert MP4 to and from other formats free in your browser — no signup to start, no watermarks.
Open the MP4 Converter