Video can be one of the most powerful elements on a website, but it also comes with one of the highest performance costs. Uncompressed videos can be hundreds of megabytes, slowing down your pages and hurting SEO. Compressing video for the web ensures fast playback, smaller file sizes, and a smoother user experience across all devices.
1. Why Video Compression Matters
Large video files increase load times, use more bandwidth, and can cause playback issues on mobile. Proper compression reduces file size while preserving quality, allowing your video to stream efficiently without overwhelming your server or slowing down your website.
2. Choose the Right Video Format
The right format ensures compatibility and performance. For most websites, the best choices are:
- MP4 (H.264) – The most widely supported format and ideal for general web use.
- MP4 (H.265 / HEVC) – Higher compression with excellent quality but limited browser compatibility.
- WEBM – Lightweight and modern, supported by most major browsers except Safari.
For maximum compatibility, MP4 (H.264) is still the standard for web playback.
3. Keep Video Dimensions Reasonable
Uploading a 4K or even 1080p file is often unnecessary. Most embedded videos only display at smaller sizes on a webpage, so exporting at a lower resolution still looks great while reducing file size dramatically.
- 1080p – Best for full-width hero videos.
- 720p – Ideal for background elements or smaller embeds.
- 480p – Works well for thumbnails or mobile-focused backgrounds.
4. Compress Using the Right Tools
Several tools can compress video without sacrificing quality:
- HandBrake – Free, powerful, and perfect for web compression.
- Adobe Media Encoder – Professional-grade with excellent optimization controls.
- Final Cut Pro / Premiere Pro Export Settings – Great for editors who work directly in video software.
- Online tools – Options like Clideo or VEED for quick, simple compression.
Tools like HandBrake allow you to fine-tune bitrate, resolution, and encoding format for optimal results.
5. Recommended Export Settings
For most websites, these settings offer an excellent balance of size and quality:
- Format: MP4 (H.264)
- Framerate: 24 or 30 fps
- Bitrate: 3000–6000 kbps for 1080p, 1500–3000 kbps for 720p
- Audio: AAC, 128–192 kbps
- Fast Start: Enabled (helps improve initial playback)
Adjust bitrate up or down depending on the amount of movement in your footage.
6. Host Videos Properly
Where you host your video affects performance. Options include:
- YouTube or Vimeo – Best for bandwidth savings and global delivery.
- Local hosting – Works well for short hero background videos when properly compressed.
- CDN storage – Ideal for large-scale sites serving multiple videos.
For autoplay hero videos, hosting locally is fine as long as the file size is small and optimized. For long-form content, platforms like YouTube or Vimeo are better choices.
Need Help Compressing or Embedding Video?
If you’re struggling with video file sizes, compression settings, or website performance, Austin Web & Design can help. We offer both hourly support and full website maintenance plans to ensure your videos load quickly and look great.
- Website Maintenance Plan – Ongoing optimization, updates, and performance improvements.
- Hourly Site Enhancements – Ideal for optimizing videos, compressing assets, and improving load times.
Whether you need a single video optimized or a full site performance overhaul, our team can make sure your website loads fast and delivers a seamless video experience.