What should I use for video compression and format conversion?

It depends on your goal, but here’s the short version:

Best general choice: FFmpeg

Use FFmpeg if you want the most flexible tool for:

• video compression
• format conversion
• trimming/cutting
• resizing
• changing audio/video codecs
• batch processing

Example:

ffmpeg -i input.mov -c:v libx264 -crf 23 -preset medium -c:a aac output.mp4

Common recommendations

For high compatibility:

• MP4 + H.264 video + AAC audio
• Good for web, phones, TVs, and most devices

For better compression / smaller files:

• H.265 / HEVC
• Smaller than H.264 for similar quality, but less universally supported

For modern web use:

• VP9 or AV1
• More efficient, but slower to encode and less convenient in some workflows

If you want a GUI instead of command line:

• HandBrake — easiest for most people
• Shutter Encoder — very powerful and user-friendly
• VLC — can convert, but not ideal for serious compression

My practical recommendation

• Use HandBrake if you want simplicity
• Use FFmpeg if you want full control or automation

If you want, I can recommend the best codec/settings for your specific use case:

• web upload
• archiving
• email/sharing
• YouTube
• reducing file size as much as possible