WMV vs MKV

Compare WMV and MKV formats to find the best option for your needs.

WMV

Video

Windows Media Video format

Advantages

  • Good compression
  • Windows native
  • Streaming support

Disadvantages

  • Proprietary
  • Limited non-Windows support

Best for

  • Windows systems
  • Streaming video
Convert to MKV
MKV

Video

Matroska multimedia container

Advantages

  • Supports multiple streams
  • Open format
  • High quality

Disadvantages

  • Large file size
  • Limited device support

Best for

  • High-quality video
  • Multiple audio tracks
  • Subtitles
Convert to WMV

Side-by-side comparison

Side-by-side comparison
FeatureWMVMKV
CategoryVideoVideo
File sizeMediumLarge
CompatibilityGoodGood
QualityGoodLossless

Questions and answers

What is the difference between WMV and MKV?
WMV: Windows Media Video format. MKV: Matroska multimedia container.
Which format should I choose: WMV or MKV?
It depends on the job. WMV is the better pick for: Windows systems and Streaming video. MKV is the better pick for: High-quality video, Multiple audio tracks, and Subtitles.
Can I convert WMV to MKV?
Yes. Open the WMV to MKV converter, drop the file and download the result.
Is WMV better than MKV?
Not in general. WMV is stronger at: Windows systems and Streaming video. MKV is stronger at: High-quality video, Multiple audio tracks, and Subtitles.

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