AV1 vs MP4: Which Should You Use?

Side-by-side comparison of AV1 and MP4 video formats — features, pros, cons, and conversion options.

Quick Answer

AV1 is best for Next-generation web video streaming. MP4 is best for Video distribution, streaming, and sharing.

Quick Verdict

AV1 Best for Next-generation web video streaming

✓ Best compression efficiency
✓ Royalty-free
✓ HDR and wide color gamut support
✗ Slow encoding speed

MP4 Best for Video distribution, streaming, and sharing

✓ Universal compatibility
✓ Excellent compression
✓ Streaming-optimized
✗ Patent-encumbered codecs (H.264/H.265)

Convert MP4 to AV1 →

Specs Comparison

Side-by-side technical comparison of AV1 and MP4

Feature	AV1	MP4
Category	Video	Video
Year Introduced	2018	2001
MIME Type	video/av01	video/mp4
Extensions	.av1, .ivf	.mp4, .m4v
Container	✗	✓
Codecs	AV1	H.264,H.265,VP9,AV1,AAC
Max Resolution	8K	8K
Streaming	✓	✓
Subtitle Support	✗	✓

Pros & Cons

AV1

Pros

✓ Best compression efficiency
✓ Royalty-free
✓ HDR and wide color gamut support

Cons

✗ Slow encoding speed
✗ Limited hardware decoder support
✗ Newer format with evolving tooling

MP4

Pros

✓ Universal compatibility
✓ Excellent compression
✓ Streaming-optimized

Cons

✗ Patent-encumbered codecs (H.264/H.265)
✗ Not ideal for editing
✗ DRM can limit playback

When to Use Each

Choose AV1 when...

You need files optimized for Next-generation web video streaming
Best compression efficiency
Royalty-free

Choose MP4 when...

You need files optimized for Video distribution, streaming, and sharing
Universal compatibility
Excellent compression

How to Convert

Convert between AV1 and MP4 for free on ChangeThisFile

Convert MP4 to AV1 Server-side conversion — auto-deleted after processing

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between AV1 and MP4?

AV1 is best for Next-generation web video streaming, while MP4 is best for Video distribution, streaming, and sharing. Both are video formats but they differ in compression, compatibility, and intended use cases.

Is AV1 or MP4 better for video?

It depends on your use case. AV1 is better for Next-generation web video streaming. MP4 is better for Video distribution, streaming, and sharing. Consider your specific requirements when choosing between them.

How do I convert AV1 to MP4?

Direct conversion from AV1 to MP4 is not currently available on ChangeThisFile. You may need to use an intermediate format.

Can I convert MP4 to AV1?

Yes. ChangeThisFile supports MP4 to AV1 conversion. Upload your file for server-side conversion — files are auto-deleted after processing.

Which is smaller, AV1 or MP4?

File size varies depending on the content, compression method, and quality settings of each format. In general, lossy formats produce smaller files than lossless ones. Test with your specific files to compare actual sizes.

Does AV1 support container?

No, AV1 does not support container, whereas MP4 does. This may be an important factor depending on your use case.

Is AV1 or MP4 free to use?

Both AV1 and MP4 are supported file formats that are free to use. You can convert between them for free on ChangeThisFile — server-side conversions are free with no signup required.

Which format is newer, AV1 or MP4?

AV1 is newer — it was introduced in 2018, while MP4 dates back to 2001. Newer formats often offer better compression and features, but older formats tend to have wider compatibility.