Convert 264 to AVI
About 264
This is a raw video stream encoded with the H.264 (also known as AVC) codec, using the '.264' file extension. It is functionally identical to a '.h264' file. It contains only the compressed video data and no audio or container structure. These files are typically intermediate files used in professional video encoding and editing workflows.
About AVI
AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is one of the oldest video formats, developed by Microsoft in 1992. As a container format, it can use a wide variety of codecs for video and audio. While it was once extremely popular, it has been largely superseded by more modern formats like MP4. It lacks modern features like native support for streaming or subtitles and can result in very large file sizes.
264 vs AVI
| Feature | 264 | AVI |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming Support | false | false |
| Subtitle Support | false | false |
| DRM Support | false | false |
| Quality Rating | 5 | 3 |
| Patent Status | patented | proprietary |
| Year Introduced | 2003 | 1992 |
| Developed By | ITU-T/ISO/IEC | Microsoft |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some files use .264 instead of .h264?
It's simply a different file extension convention for the same type of raw H.264 video stream. There is no technical difference between them.
Do I need to keep .264 files?
For most users, no. These are typically temporary or intermediate files. The final, usable video file will be a container format like MP4 or MKV that includes the audio and is ready for playback.
Is AVI still a useful format?
For new video projects, AVI is not recommended. Its main use today is for compatibility with older systems or legacy content. Modern formats like MP4 offer better compression, more features, and wider compatibility.
Why do some AVI files not play audio?
This is a common issue with AVI files and is due to its reliance on codecs. The AVI file itself is just a container. If your system does not have the specific audio or video codec installed that was used to create the file, it will not be able to play correctly.
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