MKV vs MP4 vs WebM: Which is the Best Video Format

Part 1. What are MKV, MP4, and WebM Formats

MKV Format (Matroska Video)

The Matroska Video, known by many as MKV format, is an open-source multimedia container format. This file is known for its ability to hold multiple audio and subtitle tracks. It can contain various codecs, like H.264, H.265, AAC, DTS, etc. In addition, MKV files support metadata customization, allowing users to add detailed information. Although not universally supported, it is best used in high-quality content, such as Blu-ray rips and online video.

MP4 Format (MPEG-4 Part 14)

Short for MPEG-4 Part 14, MP4 is a highly popular and most-used video format. It is recognized for its efficient compression and broad compatibility, commonly used in video streaming. MP4 is also playable on various devices and platforms, including smartphones, computers, and gaming consoles. MKV vs MP4 data handling: MP4 files can store video, audio, images, and other data. In terms of supported codecs, MP4 files can handle AVC, HEVC, VP9, VP8, and AV1.

WebM Format (Web Media File)

Created by Google, WebM is a royalty-free, open-source format designed particularly for online video use. It is based on the Matroska container structure and uses VP8, VP9, and Vorbis codecs. Not to mention, these codecs are optimized for HTML5 video streaming. It ensures efficient loading and high-quality video playback on web browsers. As a format created for online usage, WebM is supported by modern browsers like Chrome, MS Edge, and Firefox.

Part 2. MKV vs MP4 vs WebM

Compatibility

Is MKV better than MP4? It depends on which and where the format will be used.

MKV is preferred for high-quality media storage and complex video projects. Although it is highly flexible, this format lacks universal compatibility across devices. In actuality, many media players and devices do not support MKV files natively. Therefore, a specific media player that supports the MKV format is required to playback this file. MP4, on the other hand, is a universally used format favored across nearly all devices. This includes operating systems, mobile devices, gaming consoles, and online streaming services.

Blu-ray Player, picked by 4Videosoft, is a multi-format media player that goes beyond Blu-ray playback. Although the name suggests it is intended for Blu-ray playback, it can actually handle all video formats. This media player can play video and audio in formats like MKV, MP4, WebM, etc. Aside from standard and high-definition videos, it also supports higher-resolution videos, such as 1080i, 1080p, and 4K. The best thing of all, it supports advanced audio effects. Options include AAC, TrueHD, Dolby, DTS, DTS-HD, and surround sound 5.1 and 7.1 channels.

As mentioned, WebM files are intended for web use. It works efficiently with modern browsers and web-based platforms, but they are less supported outside the web. In other words, these files have limited playback on non-browser-based apps and devices. If you want to make your WebM files compatible with various devices and platforms, converting them is a good option.

4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate is the best video conversion software you shouldn’t miss. This multi-format conversion software has a staggering number of supported formats that reach over a thousand. It supports various input and output formats, like WebM, MKV, MP4, and more. Higher-resolution videos, such as 4K, 5K, and 8K, are also supported. But what makes it truly impressive is its simultaneous compression functionality. It can process multiple files at once at 120× ultra-fast lossless conversion speed.

Verdict: Clearly, MP4 is the winner in compatibility for its consistent playback support.

If you want to make MKV compatible across devices, learn how to convert MKV to MP4 here.

Quality

WebM vs MKV vs MP4 quality: Which is better?

MKV offers excellent quality retention as they are used for high-definition videos, Blu-ray rips, and other media. As mentioned, it supports various codecs, which allows for high-quality playback without loss in quality. MP4 balances quality and compression, providing high-quality playback optimized for streaming and storage. However, it sacrifices some quality for smaller file sizes. WebM prioritizes efficient streaming, delivering high-quality visuals with a focus on minimal loading time for online video. In actuality, it can’t match MKV in quality for HD files.

Verdict: Basically, MKV is the best choice for quality retention as it provides lossless playback.

File Size

WebM vs MKV vs MP4 file size: Which format is smaller in size?

In terms of file sizes, MKV files are larger due to the inclusion of multiple data and other metadata. As previously mentioned, MKV allows detailed customization, which increases the file size. MP4 is known for its compression efficiency, offering smaller file sizes while maintaining reasonable quality. These files are ideal for those who need a balanced quality and storage. WebM is particularly optimized for web use, often producing smaller file sizes than MP4 formats.

Smaller file sizes can mean lower quality if lossy compression is applied heavily. That being said, your video file will become unusable for professional projects. Don’t stress out, as there are workarounds you can apply to enhance the quality of your video. 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate is not just about converting video files but also includes editing and enhancement tools. It comes with a toolbox boasting 20+ essential tools, including the Video Enhancer. This feature can be used to upscale your poor-quality videos to 4K resolution, detailed and sharper. Additionally, it includes additional tools for removing visual noise, reducing video shakes, and optimizing video effects like brightness and contrast.

Verdict: Unquestionably, WebM wins for the smallest file sizes when it comes to streaming.

Features

WebM vs MKV vs MP4: Which format is rich in features?

MKV is feature-rich, supporting multiple audio and subtitle tracks, detailed metadata, and codecs. This makes MKV ideal for media like movies with multiple languages or versions. MP4 offers limited features compared to MKV, including single audio and subtitle tracks. Still, it remains highly functional for everyday use and widespread applications. WebM is focused on efficient online video playback, with no extra features for complex media presentations. This makes it lightweight and practical for web use but limited outside of that.

Verdict: MP4 is the most versatile format overall, best used for most applications.

Part 3. Choose the Right Format

General Use

For general use, MP4 is the most practical and broadly supported video format. Its universal compatibility allows it to work across devices and platforms without requiring additional software. It is also small in size due to efficient compression, which makes it easy to store and share without consuming excessive storage space.

Web Video

For web video, WebM stands out as the best choice. It offers efficient streaming and quality optimized for online use. WebM uses video codecs like VP9, which provide high-quality visuals while keeping file sizes compact. It ensures fast loading times and minimal buffering on websites. Since WebM is royalty-free, it’s highly accessible to developers and platforms.

Professional Use

For professional use, MKV is the preferred format, especially in video editing, archiving, and media distribution. MKV is highly valuable for preserving video projects with multiple tracks and high-definition visuals, all stored within a single file. It enables users to retain all original components without compromising quality.

This post provides a complete explanation of MKV vs MP4 vs Webm. After reading this post, you should clearly understand their differences. Hope that we have helped you gain something helpful in our post. Remember, if you’re dealing with video playback, Blu-ray, picked by 4Videosoft, can be your companion. Meanwhile, if converting video files is needed, 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate can be your lifesaver.