MOV and MP4 are the two most common and popularly used video file formats. Though both are similar in several aspects, there are so many differences between the two. Whether it is the devices they both support independently, the file sizes, and the way the formats are used, you will come across so many distinctions. The MP4 format has emerged as the global standard used for the majority of online platforms and applications, and multimedia players and devices. Often, you will find MOV files converted into MP4 via a mp4 converter tool.
What are Video Container Formats?
MP4 Format
As a lossless video format, video content in the MP4 file can be compressed to save storage space. Hence, it enables you to retain the superior audio and video quality of smaller video files. MP4 has emerged as the standard video file format for video platforms and applications.
MOV Format
Similar to MP4, MOV files are also lossless video formats that can be compressed to save space. With similar codec and compression techniques like MP4 files, MOV video files are larger, and with better quality.
Size of the File
MOV and MP4 files are both regarded as compressed video formats. But, it is MP4 files that seem to have improved and have more video compression. This indicates that MP4 video files take up less space on the hard drives of devices when compared with MOV files. The MOV files are larger and seem to have good quality. But the additional space on the hard drive can be an issue when saved and viewed on multiple devices and platforms. Thus, MOV files are often converted into MP4 files for a seamless viewing experience.
Different DRM Technologies
DRM (Digital Rights Management) is a huge challenge with distributors and developers in the USA. The MP4 file format has been designed to back up a wide array of DRM technologies and tools, like Microsoft PlayReady, Apple FairPlay, Google Widevine, and so on. On the other hand, MOV files are created by Apple and are provided with a solid backup only by Apple FairPlay. Hence, it is clear that MOV files have limited device and platform compatibility than MP4 video files. To make MOV video files compatible with most multimedia devices and platforms, you need to convert them into MP4 video files.
Uses of the Formats
MP4 is the Standard Video Format
MP4 format is the global standard and the most common video file format for the majority of applications and platforms. It is the preferred video file format for social media platforms, streaming platforms, etc. Because MP4 files are smaller, they are perfect for live video streaming, when compared with MOV files. If you have a MOV file that needs to be converted to MP4 files, a mp4 converter tool is the ideal solution.
MOV Files are for Apple Products and Video Editing
Because MOV files are large, they tend to be of higher quality. This is one of the main reasons the format is used mainly in video editing. When compared with MP4 files, MOV video files are not ideal for social media platforms, and live streaming. Furthermore, MOV files are mostly used on Apple products like iPhones, and Mac books. Though they run on Linux and Windows, you might have to download and install extra codecs and plug-ins. To avoid complexities, users usually convert MOV files to MP4 video files and play them on Apple devices and non-Apple devices hassle-free.
Conclusion
From the above analysis, it is clear that MP4 and MOV video files are similar in several domains, yet different. Both file formats are widely used as video formats, but MP4 files seem to be the winner. With more compatibility, versatility, and better compression, MOV video files are often converted to MP4 video files via mp4 converter tools.
