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FileHero guide

How to compress a video for sharing

A step-by-step guide to compress a video for sharing, with advice on the settings and checks that matter.

Before you start

Check the upload limit of the destination. Keep the original video while experimenting with a compression strength.

How to do it, step by step

  1. Open the video and check the size limit of the site or app you want to send it to.
  2. Choose a compression strength and leave the tab open while the video is processed.
  3. Download and play the result. Listen for missing sound and check fast-moving scenes for lost detail.

Check the saved file

Play the beginning, middle and end of the output and check both picture and sound.

Why browser video compression takes time

Re-encoding video requires decoding and encoding many frames. Long clips and high resolutions can put pressure on device memory and processing power. Keep the tab open and use a shorter clip or a stronger reduction. A desktop device is usually a better choice for large videos.