4 Common Video File Extensions and Important Tips for Changing Them

Video files are one of the most commonly used types of media in our daily lives and can be saved in various formats. The file extension indicates the format and characteristics of the video file. Each extension has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one based on the situation. When considering video backups, it's crucial to select an extension that ensures file stability and preservation.

Today, we'll explore four common video file extensions and discuss important considerations when changing file extensions.

Source: Freepik

1. What is a Video File Extension?

Source : Freepik

A video file extension is a type of metadata that specifies the format and type of a video file. Commonly referred to as a 'container,' it serves as a storage unit that bundles video and audio data, as well as subtitles, into a single file. Understanding the concept of containers and codecs is crucial for managing video files and performing backups effectively.

1) Container

A container is a video file extension that bundles various types of data into one file. Common video container formats include AVI, MP4, MKV, and MOV. Each container format may support different types of data and functionalities. For example, MKV can include multiple audio tracks and subtitles simultaneously, while other container formats may have limitations in these areas. Therefore, it’s important to choose the right container format based on specific needs or requirements.

2) Codec

A Codec is a technology used to compress and decompress video file data. Compression is necessary for easy storage and sharing of video files, and this is where codecs come into play. Codecs perform two main functions: first, they encode and compress the data, and second, they decode and decompress it. The encoding process reduces the file size, while the decoding process makes the file playable. When backing up videos, selecting the appropriate codec is crucial for efficiently managing file size while maintaining the original quality.

2. Types of Video File Extensions

1) AVI

Source: Flaticon

AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is a multimedia container format developed by Microsoft in 1992. AVI files can integrate and store both video and audio data within a single file and are compatible with various codecs.

AVI boasts excellent compatibility, as it is supported by most operating systems and media players. It also supports lossless compression, which helps preserve the original quality of the video. However, lossless compression can result in larger file sizes, and AVI's support for advanced features like subtitles and multiple audio tracks is somewhat limited.

2) MOV

Source: Flaticon

MOV is a multimedia container format based on Apple’s QuickTime technology. It can include video, audio, subtitles, and other media data, and is primarily used with MacOS-related software.

MOV files support high-quality video and audio and can contain various multimedia elements. This format is widely used because it is easily editable with video editing software. However, because it is primarily optimized for Apple devices and software, compatibility issues may arise on other platforms. Additionally, the support for high-quality video can result in larger file sizes.

3) MP4

Source: Flaticon

MP4 is a digital multimedia container format defined by ISO. It is one of the most widely used video file formats today, capable of containing video, audio, subtitles, and image data.

MP4 is supported by most digital devices and platforms and is commonly used for web streaming, making it a highly compatible format. It can include multiple audio tracks, subtitles, and chapter information, offering various options for video backup. However, MP4 often uses lossy compression for video files, which can result in a slight loss of original quality. Additionally, its support for high resolution and bit rates may require more advanced hardware.

4) WMV

Source: Flaticon

WWMV (Windows Media Video) is a video compression format developed by Microsoft, primarily used within the Windows environment through the Windows Media Framework.

WMV offers relatively high compression rates, allowing for smaller video file sizes. It is natively supported by Windows operating systems, providing good compatibility. However, the high compression rate can lead to a reduction in video quality, and there may be compatibility issues on platforms other than Windows.

3. Things to Consider When Changing Video File Extensions

Source: Freepik

Why might you need to change a video file extension? First, there’s the issue of video file size. Large files can take up considerable storage space and may affect transfer speeds. In such cases, converting the video to a format with higher compression can help reduce the file size. Second, if a specific platform or website supports different file extensions, you may need to convert the file to a format preferred by that platform for smoother operation. However, there are several things to be cautious about during this conversion process:

1) Loss of Quality

When converting a video file to a different format, there may be a loss in quality compared to the original file. This is especially true when using lossy compression methods, which can damage the video's details or affect color accuracy. To mitigate these issues, you should use lossless compression methods or choose a codec that preserves the original quality as much as possible.

2) Video Corruption Issues

During the video conversion process, codec compatibility issues can sometimes cause video corruption or result in only part of the screen being visible. This is a common problem when converting to lesser-known formats. To avoid such issues, it is crucial to thoroughly test the converted file to ensure that it displays correctly.

3) Risk of Original File Damage

There is a risk that the original file may become damaged during the conversion process. Therefore, it is highly recommended to create a backup of the original file before starting the conversion. Having a backup ensures that you can restore the original file if any problems occur during the conversion.

📍 Exploring Various Image File Extensions and Conversion Methods

4. Easy and Fast Video Transfer with Rakuten Drive!

Compressing video files one by one can be tedious and time-consuming, especially when dealing with large files. Is there a way to share large video files quickly and easily without having to compress them? In such cases, consider using Rakuten Drive’s cloud service for hassle-free and efficient video transfers!

Rakuten Drive offers cloud storage that securely stores all your data and allows easy access to uploaded files from any device, anywhere. You can open and edit documents, slides, and spreadsheets in real time using the web versions of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, without needing to download the files. Multiple users can collaborate on the same document simultaneously, making teamwork more efficient.

👉 Learn More about Rakuten Drive

We’ve explored various video file extensions and key considerations for changing them! Rakuten Drive provides ample storage capacity, allowing you to share large video files quickly without compression. You can choose and pay for the storage capacity you need, and safely back up original files during format conversion. With customizable plans tailored to your data size and needs, Rakuten Drive offers flexible data management solutions. Share large video files easily and efficiently with Rakuten Drive!

Want to Share files without worrying about video size? 👉 Check Rakuten Drive’s plans!