Video Codecs

 

Compatibilities:

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Which video codec is "best"?

Each codec handles video data differently. The basic balance is between file size, quality and necessary processor power. Codecs like Sorenson can give nice results with small file size, but need a good processor to play back at a good speed. Others like Microsoft's Video can give good quality and speed but are huge. The trick is to strike a balance that works best for your movie. Some codecs are great for one type of video like animation but fall apart on another (say live action.) You should test to see what is the most friendly to your movie. A good resource to start is at terran.com on their codec page. Note that some must be licensed and others need to be installed on the user's machine to work. Try a few out and read their specification to find the one that is best for you. Keep in mind that for CD projects the data rate should not cross 300 kps and on codecs like Sorenson or Indeo, you probably want to keep it even lower.