Compress video without losing quality
Every encode removes some data, but the right capture habits, export settings, and FitToMB presets keep detail so your video still looks crisp after compression.
What “without losing quality” really means
Lossless compression keeps every pixel but only works on simple footage. Most social and messaging platforms expect H.264/HEVC/AV1 streams, which are lossy. The goal is to stay visually lossless: viewers can’t spot the difference from your master file.
FitToMB calculates a safe bitrate for the size you need, runs two-pass encoding, and keeps more bits where motion or text needs them. If you also need size-specific guidance (10MB, 25MB, 50MB), see the video compression for sharing guide.
Capture settings that preserve detail
- Record at the highest quality your device allows. More source detail gives the encoder extra data to work with later. For iPhone clips, lock exposure and record at 30 fps – then run them through the iPhone compressor when you’re ready to share.
- Avoid unnecessary noise. Grainy low-light footage eats bitrate. Add a little light or reduce ISO to keep edges clean.
- Keep motion blur consistent. Shutter speeds around 1/60 for 30 fps feel natural and help the encoder predict frames.
Export settings for near-lossless compression
- Export a high-quality master from your editor (ProRes, DNxHD, or a high bitrate H.264). That master is what you upload to FitToMB.
- Pick a realistic target size. If the destination allows 50MB, use it—larger targets mean more bitrate headroom. Our email compression guide covers how inbox limits affect this choice.
- Use FitToMB’s two-pass encode. Drop the master file into the MP4 compressor, set your target size, and let the tool balance bitrate, resolution, and audio for you.
If the preview still looks soft, try a slightly higher target size or downscale from 4K to 1440p/1080p before compressing. Downscaling often keeps texture while reducing bitrate needs.
When to use H.264, HEVC, or AV1
- H.264 (AVC): Works everywhere and is the default FitToMB output. Choose this for email, most chat apps, and when you need maximum compatibility.
- HEVC (H.265): Smaller files at the same quality but older devices may struggle. Ideal for Apple ecosystem sharing—run the result through the MOV compressor if you started with HEVC footage.
- AV1: Best efficiency today. Use when everyone watching is on modern browsers or Discord Nitro. Follow our Discord AV1 compression guide to enable it in FitToMB.
You can switch codecs in the tool’s advanced options. For true archival storage, keep an uncompressed or mezzanine master alongside your compressed deliverable.
Keep text and UI sharp after resizing
- Resize intentionally. Scale to even resolutions (1440p, 1080p, 720p). Odd values create ringing and shimmering on playback.
- Limit frame rate changes. Going from 60 fps to 30 fps saves bitrate but may affect motion clarity. Test both and pick what looks best.
- Use gentle sharpening only if needed. Add it before uploading so the encoder spends bits on real edges rather than noise.
- Preview the FitToMB output before sending. Re-run with a slightly larger target or alternative codec if small text still looks soft.
Quality-first workflows inside FitToMB
Share-ready but crisp
Need compatibility and detail? Use the default H.264 workflow with a 50MB target for social uploads or team reviews.
Open tool at 50MB
AV1 for the smallest files
Enable AV1 to keep quality at half the bitrate. Perfect for Discord Nitro or web playback on modern browsers.
Use the AV1 preset
Email-friendly masters
When inboxes cap you at 25MB, start with the email preset and keep resolution at 720p to preserve text and UI.
Open email workflow
Quick FAQ
Can I truly compress video without losing any quality?
Not once you use delivery codecs like H.264, HEVC, or AV1—those are lossy by design. The trick is to start with a clean master, aim for generous bitrates, and let a two-pass encoder keep detail where it matters.
Should I use constant bitrate (CBR) or variable bitrate (VBR)?
Use VBR with two-pass encoding. FitToMB analyzes the whole clip, then redistributes bitrate so complex scenes get more bits and static areas get fewer.
What bitrate keeps 1080p video looking sharp?
For visually lossless 1080p at 30 fps, plan for 8–12 Mbps on H.264. HEVC or AV1 can hit the same quality closer to 5–8 Mbps. Set a higher target size if your clip has fast action or lots of fine detail.
Ready to try it? Open FitToMB, set your target size, and compare the result side by side with your master.
Launch the compressor