Starting a YouTube channel means becoming comfortable with the different video formats the platform supports. Without understanding video formats, your content may be hard to read or look unprofessional.
Our guide has everything you need to know about the ideal YouTube video format. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be ready to upload high-ranking content!
What are the File Types That YouTube Supports?
YouTube is a flexible platform that supports most video formats, but some are more compatible. The most common file types YouTube supports are:
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.MPEG-1
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.MPEG-2
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.MPEG4
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.MPG
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.MP4
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.MOV
However, you can also use less common file types such as:
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DNxHR
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ProRes
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CineForm
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HEVC (h265)
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.AVI
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.WMV
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.MPEGPS
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.FLV
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3GPP
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WebM
Not sure if your file type is YouTube-friendly? YouTube video converters will change your file so you can still upload your content.
The Ideal Youtube Video Format (and Why)
Starting a YouTube channel as a beginner doesn’t have to be intimidating. We recommend using the MP4 for your YouTube video format because it can retain video, subtitles, text, and images.
The Benefits of the MP4 Format
The MP4 format is also fantastic for cross posting your work onto other channels like Instagram or Facebook. The majority of digital devices are also able to play this file type without an issue. If you’re interested in expanding your channel, MP4 saves you time down the road.
YouTube videos in MP4 format also have a smaller file size, so they take less time to upload. If you enjoy uploading long live streams to your channel, you’ll want this file type.
The Benefits of the MOV Format
However, the second best YouTube video format is MOV. This file type doesn’t experience many compression issues, which refers to a video’s quality. If you’ve ever watched a video that looked blurry or pixelated, you’ve seen compression in action.
To compare, a MOV video will often look crisp, clear, and professional. When first impressions are everything, you always want to put your best foot forward with your new YouTube channel.
File Types to Avoid For Your YouTube Video Format
Some of the files you should avoid are audio file types like .MP3 and .WAV. These can’t upload a video, so YouTube won’t be able to turn them into content.
However, you can always add audio to a video, then upload your content using the approved file types.
Best Practices For Your YouTube Video Format
Now that you know the YouTube preferred video format, you must learn smaller details like size and length. These tips are useful for both helpful content and crafting YouTube ads.
Don’t Overlook the YouTube Video Length Limits
Do you prefer long form content or uploading live streams? Keep in mind that YouTube only allows a maximum video length of 12 hours (or 128 GB).
There are ways around the YouTube video format size limits, though. Consider slicing up your content into shorter videos, then linking to them in a playlist. Videos between 10 to 15 minutes do well, while longer videos take more time to build views.
That said, these are not hard and fast rules. If your audience prefers in-depth, long videos, go for it!
Always Stay Within the Aspect Ratio
An aspect ratio refers to the length and width of your YouTube video format. The platform’s aspect ratio is 16:9, so make sure to double-check your video before uploading.
The video may look odd to your viewers if you don’t fit within the YouTube aspect ratio. YouTube may add dark bars to ‘fit’ the video into the aspect ratio or the video may upload too small. Since most Internet users browse on mobile, you don’t want to miss out on a huge chunk of your audience.
Make Sure Your Frame Rate Lines Up With Content
What frame rate did you record your original content in? When uploading your video, make sure your frame rate is the same to avoid video processing issues.
Below are common frame rates per second you’ll likely be using:
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24
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25
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30
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48
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50
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60
Pay Attention to Upload Recommendations
You don’t have to remember all these numbers and YouTube video format file types. When you upload a video to YouTube, the channel will provide upload recommendations depending on your content.
These recommendations may be video quality suggestions or thumbnail suggestions. If you notice a recommendation contradicting your original goal, consider trying it out.
Use AI Tools to Keep Your Videos Formatted
Want to speed up the production process to ensure your videos are always formatted and ready to publish? AI tools will help you not just maintain the best video file format for YouTube, but save you time.
Excelling in video marketing means using tools like templates, automated editing, and script features to save time. Instead of writing or filming everything on your own, AI tools will pick up the slack. You can create an interesting channel with professional video and images in half the time.
These tools mean less busy work and more time reaching out to your audience to grow your brand. With the best video format for YouTube mixed with your innovative ideas, there’s nothing you can’t achieve.
Conclusion
Starting a new YouTube channel is an exciting plunge filled with fresh opportunities. Capturing those opportunities is much easier when you have powerful AI tools saving you time and money.
We created JoggAI to help creators rank, attract subscribers, and grow their brand. One of our platform’s many features is helping craft YouTube channels with AI avatars, video editing, and more.
