When your video is ready to publish, the next step is choosing the right file format. This affects how your video looks, how large the file is, and how easily it plays across different devices. If you are preparing videos for your website, social channels, or for Dream Engine to edit, the format you choose matters.
This guide explains the key formats in simple terms and gives you clear recommendations for online use, client delivery, and high-quality playback.
Codecs and Containers Explained
Before choosing a format, it helps to understand two important terms. A codec is the method used to compress and decompress video. This reduces file size so your video plays smoothly without long buffering times. A container is the file type that holds the video, audio, and other data. Examples include .mp4 and .mov.
For most business use, you will only need to work with a small number of standard formats.
H.264
H.264 is the most common codec used for online video. It provides excellent quality at a relatively small file size, which makes it ideal for websites, social media, email sharing, and internal communications. Almost every platform supports it, and it plays reliably on computers, phones, and tablets.
For most corporate videos and marketing content, H.264 is a dependable choice.
MP4
MP4 is one of the most widely used containers for online video. YouTube, Vimeo, LinkedIn, Facebook, and many website players recommend MP4 as their preferred upload format.
An MP4 file usually contains H.264 video and AAC audio. If you are exporting content for the web, MP4 will almost always be the right choice.
MOV
MOV is Apple’s QuickTime file format. Like MP4, it can contain many different codecs. When using MOV for professional work, it is often paired with Apple ProRes. MOV files are larger than MP4s, but this extra data provides higher image quality. This makes MOV a strong option when handing footage to editors or preparing content for high-quality displays.
Apple ProRes
Apple ProRes is a high-quality codec often used in filmmaking and professional post-production. It offers very little loss of detail and maintains clean edges and smooth movement. ProRes is available in different versions, including ProRes LT, ProRes HQ, and ProRes 4444.
- ProRes LT: High quality with manageable file sizes. Ideal for most corporate work.
- ProRes HQ: Higher data rate and larger files. Useful for detailed or graphics-heavy content.
- ProRes 4444: Used for advanced compositing and green screen work where maximum colour data is required.
For clients sending footage to Dream Engine for editing, ProRes LT or HQ is often the best option because it preserves detail while remaining workable in the edit.
Which Format Should You Choose?
Here are the simplest recommendations for business use:
- For websites and social media: MP4 (H.264)
- For emailing or internal communication: MP4 (H.264)
- For handing footage to Dream Engine for editing: ProRes LT or ProRes HQ
- For large screens or events: MOV with ProRes (HQ recommended)
This gives you reliable quality and compatibility across all platforms.
Conclusion
Choosing the right export format helps ensure your video looks sharp, loads quickly, and plays smoothly wherever it is viewed. For most online video, an MP4 using the H.264 codec is ideal. For higher-quality use, especially when working with editors, ProRes gives you excellent detail and flexibility.
If you need help preparing your video for upload or want professional guidance on exporting, get in touch with the Dream Engine team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What format should I use for my website?
An MP4 file encoded with H.264 is the best choice for most websites because it balances quality and file size.
What format should I use when sending footage to Dream Engine?
ProRes LT or ProRes HQ inside a MOV file is ideal. These formats maintain detail and are easy to work with in editing.
Is MP4 better than MOV?
MP4 is better for online use because it is smaller and widely supported. MOV is better for professional editing and high-quality playback.
Which format should I use for social media?
Use MP4 with H.264. It is recommended by YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Is ProRes too large for online use?
ProRes files are much larger than MP4s. They are not designed for upload but for editing and high-quality master files.
Ryan Spanger is the founder and managing director of Dream Engine, a Melbourne-based video production company established in 2002. With more than two decades of experience, Ryan has helped leading Australian businesses, government departments, and non-profits communicate their message with clarity and impact through video. He’s known for his strategic approach, reliable process, and commitment to producing videos that deliver measurable results.
