Wondering is MOV or MP4 better for YouTube video uploads? Check this tutorial for a complete learning.
Ever wondered if you should upload or record YouTube videos in MOV or MP4? You're not alone. Many creators, especially beginners, struggle with choosing the right format.
In this article, we'll answer the question is MOV or MP4 better for YouTube by comparing the two formats in terms of quality, size, compatibility, and performance. By the end, you'll know exactly which format suits your needs and how to convert it if needed.
MP4 is generally the better format for uploading videos to YouTube. It offers a smaller file size, faster uploads, and broader compatibility while maintaining high video quality.
🚩MOV vs MP4 Comparison Table:
Feature | MOV | MP4 |
File Size | Larger, less compressed | Smaller, highly compressed |
Video Quality | High-quality, good for editing | Excellent quality with smaller size |
YouTube Compatibility | Supported, but slower processing | Fully optimized for YouTube |
Editing Compatibility | Great for Apple/macOS environments | Compatible across most platforms |
Upload Speed | Slower due to large file size | Faster and smoother |
Best Use Case | Professional editing, Apple workflows | Uploading, sharing, cross-platform use |
🔗Read also: What Recording Software Do YouTubers Use
Share this post if you find it helpful!
Let's explore the differences in more detail so you can make the best decision based on your editing workflow and uploading needs.
MOV and MP4 are two of the most common video file formats today.
Both formats can store video, audio, subtitles, and metadata. But they work differently when it comes to size, compatibility, and compression.
MP4 files are generally much smaller than MOV files. That's because MP4 uses more aggressive compression, which reduces file size while preserving good quality.
For example:
This makes MP4 the smarter choice if you're working with slow internet speeds or have storage limits.
MOV files tend to maintain slightly higher video quality, especially in raw footage. That's why professional editors sometimes prefer MOV when editing high-resolution projects.
However, for YouTube purposes, the difference in quality is almost invisible to viewers once the video is processed and compressed again by YouTube. So, unless you need uncompressed master footage, MP4 offers a near-identical viewing experience.
MP4 is more universal.
MOV is optimized for Apple systems:
When uploading to YouTube, MP4 causes fewer errors and faster processing times.
YouTube officially recommends uploading videos in MP4 format (H.264 video codec + AAC audio codec).
Why?
MOV is accepted, but YouTube might take longer to process it, especially for large files or higher resolutions.
👉Use MP4 if:
👉Use MOV if:
Share this post if you find it helpful!
Got a video in MOV format but want the benefits of MP4 for uploading to YouTube? No problem. We recommend using EaseUS RecExperts. It's more than a screen recorder - also acts as a lightweight video format converter.
⭐Features:
You can also record your screen directly in MP4 to save conversion time!
Share this post if you find it helpful!
So, is mov or mp4 better for YouTube? For 99% of creators, the answer is MP4. It's faster, smaller, and fully supported by YouTube. MOV is better if you're working in a Mac-heavy editing workflow or need uncompressed quality.
Want to make your life easier? Record or convert your videos in MP4 from the start using tools like EaseUS RecExperts.
Still have questions? We've got you covered.
MP4 is better for Instagram. It's smaller in size and compatible with mobile uploads. Instagram may not accept large MOV files.
Again, MP4 wins. TikTok prefers MP4 with H.264 codec. MOV might upload, but you risk slower processing or compatibility issues.
Yes, YouTube supports MOV. But it may take longer to process, especially if the file is large.
Yes, but not ideal. MOV works best in editing environments. For uploads, stick with MP4 to avoid delays and reprocessing.
Share this post if you find it helpful!
Share this post if you find it helpful!
Related Articles
2025 | How to Use OBS Virtual Camera on PC/Mac
How to Change Default Video Player on Mac [2025 Guide]
Top 6 Free Android Screen Recorder
4 Alternatives | How to Watch ReelShort Movies for Free in 2025