Integrating video into your website requires understanding the fundamental video file types. Key considerations include which format to use and the advantages and disadvantages of each. This guide explores the common video file types: MPEG, AVI, and QuickTime, to help you make informed decisions.
QuickTime has gained significant traction, with many prominent entertainment and news websites using it extensively.
AVI, the oldest of the three, is Windows-centric. However, it faces challenges due to compatibility issues and synchronization problems with audio and video. QuickTime’s cross-platform compatibility (Windows and Macintosh) further diminishes AVI’s appeal.
MPEG is known for its high output quality, making it a favorite for video games, CD-ROMs, and other media demanding superior visual fidelity. A primary drawback is its larger file sizes, as MPEG prioritizes quality over compression.
Converting video to MPEG requires specialized hardware and software, adding complexity and cost. Furthermore, native Apple/Macintosh incompatibility means that Mac users will not be able to view MPEG videos embedded on websites.
QuickTime, developed by Apple, enjoys widespread popularity. It is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows systems. The affordability of QuickTime-compatible hardware and software makes it an accessible choice for creating and embedding video content on websites.