H.264 / H.265

The Power Behind Video Streaming

These video codecs transformed how we consume digital video. H.264 made HD streaming possible by shrinking video files to manageable sizes while maintaining quality - it's why YouTube could offer HD video even on slower internet connections. H.265 then took it further, handling 4K video at about half the file size of H.264.

This efficiency comes from better compression techniques: H.265 can track subtle movements like leaves in the wind, analyze larger patterns across frames, and preserve fine details that H.264 might lose. For example, a 30-minute 4K video that might take 6GB in H.264 could shrink to 3GB in H.265 while looking just as good. This improvement is crucial for streaming services, mobile devices, and anyone working with high-resolution video.

Patent Landscape

Both H.264 and H.265 operate under complex patent licensing requirements that affect their implementation and use. These codecs are managed by patent pools that require licensing fees for commercial use, creating significant barriers for software developers and content distributors. This patent encumbrance has led to growing support for open-source alternatives like AV1, which offers superior compression efficiency while remaining royalty-free.

Making Videos Smaller and Sharper

• Motion Tracking

  Rather than storing every frame completely, these codecs track how objects move between frames. If a person walks across the screen, the codec only needs to store "move this shape right by 10 pixels" instead of redrawing the entire person. H.265 improves on H.264 by tracking more complex movements and smaller details, which is why it can achieve the same quality at half the file size.

• Smart Blocks

  The codecs split each frame into blocks for analysis. H.264 uses blocks from 16x16 down to 4x4 pixels, while H.265 can go from 64x64 down to 4x4. Larger blocks work well for simple areas like blue sky, while smaller blocks capture complex details like leaves moving in the wind. This flexible approach helps achieve better compression without losing quality.

• Quality Management

  These codecs constantly balance quality and file size. They might use more data for action scenes or important details, and less for static shots. H.265 is particularly good at this - it can maintain consistent quality even when the bitrate drops very low, which is why it's become the standard for 4K streaming on platforms like Netflix and YouTube.

What H.264 and H.265 Can Do

Here's how these codecs compare:

• File Size: H.265 typically makes files half the size of H.264 while maintaining the same visual quality. A 1GB H.264 video might only need 500MB in H.265.
• Quality Control: Both codecs are good at preserving details that matter to viewers while compressing things you're less likely to notice. They're particularly effective at maintaining sharp edges and smooth motion.
• Resolution Range: These codecs can handle everything from small mobile videos to 4K and 8K content. They automatically adjust their compression settings based on the resolution and frame rate of your video.

FAQs

Why doesn't Compressor offer H.265 compression?

We prioritize open-source technologies that promote an accessible web. Instead of H.265, we offer AV1 compression, which provides superior compression efficiency while being royalty-free. This choice aligns with our commitment to supporting open standards and delivering the best possible technology to our users without licensing restrictions.

Will H.265 replace H.264 completely?

While H.265 offers better compression, H.264's widespread compatibility ensures its continued relevance for many applications.