In today’s digital world, videos are everywhere, from YouTube tutorials to Netflix shows and TikTok clips. However, what most viewers don’t realize is that video compression technology plays a big role in delivering high-quality videos with smaller file sizes. Two major formats dominate this space: H264 vs H265.
In this blog, we’ll explain the differences between H264 and H265, how they work, and which one is better for different purposes. Whether you’re a video editor, a content creator, or just a tech enthusiast, this guide will help you understand which format suits your needs best.
What Are H264 and H265?
H264 (AVC – Advanced Video Coding)
H264, also known as AVC, has been around since 2003. It became the most popular video compression format due to its balance of good quality and moderate file size. It is widely supported across all devices, browsers, and software.
You’ll find H264 used in:
- YouTube and Vimeo uploads
- Blu-ray discs
- Online video streaming
- Video conferencing platforms
Its biggest strength is compatibility, almost any media player or device can play H264 videos without extra software.
H265 (HEVC, High Efficiency Video Coding)
H265, or HEVC, is the successor to H264. It offers better compression efficiency, meaning it can deliver the same video quality as H264 at nearly half the file size. This is especially useful for 4K and 8K videos, where file sizes can be massive.
H265 is commonly used in:
- UHD (Ultra HD) video streaming
- High-quality video recording devices
- Video-sharing platforms that prioritize smaller bandwidth
The only downside is that not all devices or players fully support H265, especially older ones.
Why Compression Matters in Video Streaming
When streaming or downloading videos, compression determines how much data your device must handle. Efficient compression (like H265) means:
- Faster downloads
- Less buffering
- Smaller storage space
For content creators and agencies like Mars IT Agency, this also means faster website loading times when embedding videos or hosting them for clients.
Video Quality: Which Format Looks Better?
While both codecs can deliver great visuals, H265 provides better image clarity at the same bitrate. This is because H265 uses advanced motion compensation and prediction techniques, reducing redundant data between frames.
Example:
If you stream a movie in 1080p, H265 will require roughly 40% less bandwidth than H264 for the same visual quality. That’s why modern streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime are slowly moving toward HEVC (H265).
File Size: How Much Space Can You Save?
Let’s put it into perspective:
- A 1GB H264 video might only be 500,600MB in H265 format.
- For long videos or HD recordings, this can mean saving hundreds of gigabytes of storage space.
If you’re running a digital marketing or creative business, saving storage space on your video projects can make your workflow much more efficient.
Device and Software Compatibility
One of the main concerns with H265 is compatibility. While modern devices and apps support it, older hardware may struggle.
Devices Supporting H265
- Latest smartphones (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, etc.)
- Smart TVs (manufactured after 2018)
- Modern browsers and media players like VLC
Devices That May Need Conversion
Older computers or DVD players may require video conversion tools to play H265 files. Tools like HandBrake or WinX Video Converter can help you convert H265 videos to H264 easily.
(External link: HandBrake Official Site)
When to Use H264 and When to Use H265
Use H264 If:
- You need maximum compatibility across all devices
- You’re uploading videos to websites or apps that don’t support HEVC
- You prefer faster encoding with minimal CPU usage
Use H265 If:
- You want to save space without sacrificing video quality
- You’re working with 4K or 8K footage
- You’re streaming or archiving high-resolution videos
For most businesses and creators in 2025, using H265 for storage and H264 for online sharing is the most balanced approach.
How to Convert Between H264 and H265
Converting videos between these formats is easy with online tools or software.
Recommended Tools
- HandBrake (Free), Converts between multiple codecs, easy for beginners.
- FFmpeg, A command-line tool for professionals who want complete control.
- WinX HD Video Converter, Offers fast and high-quality conversions.
(External link: WinX HD Video Converter)
If you want detailed tutorials on video file conversions, you can also check out Marsit Agency latest articles on video conversion for step-by-step guides.
Common Questions About H264 vs H265
1. Is H265 better than H264?
Yes, H265 provides better compression and quality but requires more processing power.
2. Does YouTube use H265?
Not yet widely. YouTube still relies heavily on H264 and VP9, though H265 support is growing.
3. Can I play H265 videos on older devices?
Yes, but you may need a media player like VLC or convert it to H264 for compatibility.
4. Is H265 safe and legal to use?
Yes, H265 is a legal video compression format. However, some software may require a license for commercial use.
Internal Links (Mars IT Agency)
To enhance your understanding of video tools and file types, check out these related posts on our website:
- How to Download Subtitles for Any Movie or Video in 2025
- DVD Capacity Explained: How Much Data Can a DVD Hold
- Convert MP4 to MOV Online: Fast, Safe, and Free Methods
Conclusion
When comparing H264 vs H265, the choice depends on your priorities.
If compatibility and speed matter most, stick with H264. But if you want smaller file sizes and higher efficiency, H265 is the future.
In 2025, as more platforms and devices adopt HEVC, switching to H265 will help you stay ahead, especially if you work with high-quality or long-format videos.
At Marsit Agency, we believe understanding video formats like H264 and H265 can help creators, marketers, and businesses make smarter choices when managing and sharing media online.