Table of Contents
In the age of high-definition videos, it has become quite challenging to send large video files over the internet, especially considering the limited data transfer speeds. When we try to send massive video files, we run into a wide range of problems such as slow data transfer speed, failed transfer, or even worse, damaged videos. Additionally, larger video sizes reduce the storage capacity and can slow down our device over time.
One of the most efficient solutions to this problem is reducing video size, and luckily, there are a few ways to do that without damaging the video quality. In this article, we’ll provide you with three different methods to reduce video size without sacrificing video quality.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Reduce Video Size
Some of the reasons to reduce video size include saving time and optimizing storage capacity. Large video files consume more storage space, and they may slow down the device’s performance over time. Additionally, sending large video files via the internet can be time-consuming and sometimes impossible due to limitations in the data transfer speeds.
Reducing the video size makes it easier to store, share, and send videos over the internet without sacrificing the video quality. This way, you can keep the video files you need without worrying about the storage space they consume.
Method 1: Use ‘Handbrake’
‘Handbrake’ is a multipurpose video compression software that enables you to compress any video file while keeping the original quality. The software is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. Compression is done using dedicated video compression algorithms, which reduce the video file’s size without compromising its quality. Here are the steps to reduce video size using Handbrake:
- Download and install Handbrake on your device.
- Open Handbrake and click on ‘Open Source’ to select the video file you want to compress.
- Select your preferred output format, and apply settings such as video quality, bitrate, and framerate depending on your preferences.
- After adjusting all the settings, click on ‘Start’ to begin the compression process.
Pros:
- Handbrake is free to use, and it supports multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
- The software is capable of converting files into various formats supported by different devices.
- It offers more advanced compression settings that allow you to customize video compression according to your needs.
- It can compress and convert large files very quickly and efficiently.
Cons:
- Handbrake may not support some formats, especially newer ones.
- Compression may take a long time, depending on your device’s processing power and the size of your video file.
- The user interface can be complex, and it may take some time to master all the features.
Method 2: Use ‘Wondershare UniConverter’
Wondershare UniConverter (formerly Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate) is another video compression software that enables you to reduce video file size without losing any quality. The software is easy to use, and it supports various video formats such as AVI, MP4, MKV, and many more. Here’s how you can compress video files using Wondershare UniConverter:
- Download and install Wondershare UniConverter on your device, then open it.
- Click on the ‘Add Files’ button to select the video file you want to compress.
- Select a preferred compression setting such as file format, video quality, and resolution.
- Click on ‘Start’ to begin the compression process.
Pros:
- Wondershare UniConverter offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to use, even for first-time users.
- The software supports various video formats, making it easy to compress files without worrying about compatibility.
- It offers many advanced compression settings such as bitrate, resolution, and frame rate, allowing you to optimize file size based on your preferences even further.
- It supports batch processing, enabling users to compress multiple video files simultaneously.
Cons:
- The free version has a significant limitation, as it can only compress videos up to 100MB in size.
- Compressing large files can take some time, especially for devices with low processing power.
- Some advanced features are only available in the paid version.
Method 3: Use Online Video Compressors
There are many free online video compression tools that enable you to compress videos without installing any software on your device. This method is particularly useful for those who need to compress occasional videos without investing in dedicated software. These online tools work by uploading your video to their server, compressing it, and then downloading the compressed file. Some of the popular online video compression tools include:
- Clipchamp
- CloudConvert
- Online Convert
Here’s how to compress using Clipchamp:
- Go to the Clipchamp website (https://clipchamp.com/en/compressor).
- Click on ‘Convert my video.’
- Select the video file you want to compress from your device.
- Choose your preferred output format, apply settings such as video quality, and bitrate depending on your preferences.
- Click the ‘Compress’ button to start the compression process.
- Once the compression is complete, download your compressed file back to your computer.
Pros:
- Online video compressors do not require any installation processes or software on your device.
- They are mostly free for use, making it economical compared to purchasing dedicated software.
- Users can access these tools from any device, regardless of the operating system.
Cons:
- Online video compressors can be slower than dedicated software.
- The server may reject if you’re compressing sensitive files.
- Online services depend on internet speed and stability, meaning a slow connection may result in extended compression time or even fail compression altogether.
What to Do If You Can’t Reduce Video Size
If you can’t reduce the video size using the above methods, there are a few fixes you could consider to help you overcome the problem. These include:
- Delete unwanted videos and files: Deleting unwanted videos and image files frees up storage space on your device, which makes it easier to store and transfer videos.
- Trimming the video: By trimming the video, you can cut off the parts that are unnecessary and reduce the video size considerably.
- Using external storage devices: Consider using external storage devices such as USB drives, external hard drives, or cloud storage, to save your videos and free up your device’s storage space.
Bonus Tip
Transferring videos over the internet can be frustrating, especially when dealing with large files. One way to transfer large video files over the internet is to use file-sharing services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, or WeTransfer. These services enable you to upload large files and share the download link with your recipient, who then downloads the file from the server.
5 FAQs
Q: Why do video files become so large?
A: Large video files are the result of using high-quality video image resolutions and frame rates, which take up a lot of storage space.
Q: Can I compress videos without installing any software?
A: Yes, online video compressors such as CloudConvert, Clipchamp, and Online Convert allow you to compress videos online without installing any software.
Q: Will compressing videos affect their quality?
A: If you use advanced compression settings such as bitrate and frame rate, you can compress videos without affecting their quality significantly.
Q: What is the best video compression software?
A: The best video compression software depends on your preferences and needs. Handbrake, Wondershare UniConverter, and VLC media player are popular video compression software.
Q: How do I know if my compressed video has the same quality as the original copy?
A: You can compare the quality of the compressed video with the original by viewing both videos side by side and checking for any differences.
Final Thoughts
Reducing video size is a necessity in today’s high-definition video world, considering how large video files can take up a lot of storage space and consume data transfer speed when sending over the internet. In this article, we’ve provided you with three different approaches you can use to reduce video size without reducing its quality. While each method has its pros and cons, you’ll ultimately decide which method is the best suitable for you based on your preferences.