M4V
Video
MPEG-4 video file format
Advantages
- Apple ecosystem
- Good quality
- DRM support
Disadvantages
- Limited device support
- Proprietary
Best for
- iTunes video
- Apple devices
- Protected content
M4V vs MP4
Compare M4V and MP4 formats to find the best option for your needs.
MP4
Video
MPEG-4 Part 14 - universal video format
Advantages
- Universal compatibility
- Good compression
- Streaming support
- High quality
Disadvantages
- Lossy compression
- Limited editing
- DRM restrictions
Best for
- Video sharing
- Streaming
- Social media
- Mobile devices
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | M4V | MP4 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Video | Video |
| File size | Medium | Medium |
| Compatibility | Good | Opens everywhere |
| Quality | Good | Excellent |
Questions and answers
What is the difference between M4V and MP4?
M4V: MPEG-4 video file format. MP4: MPEG-4 Part 14 - universal video format.
Which format should I choose: M4V or MP4?
It depends on the job. M4V is the better pick for: iTunes video, Apple devices, and Protected content. MP4 is the better pick for: Video sharing, Streaming, and Social media.
Can I convert M4V to MP4?
Yes. Open the M4V to MP4 converter, drop the file and download the result.
Is M4V better than MP4?
Not in general. M4V is stronger at: iTunes video, Apple devices, and Protected content. MP4 is stronger at: Video sharing, Streaming, and Social media.