Convert MKV to HEVC
About MKV
MKV (Matroska) is a free, open-source container format that is known for its flexibility. An MKV file can hold an unlimited number of video, audio, and subtitle tracks, along with metadata, chapter points, and more, all within a single file. This makes it a favorite for storing high-definition movies, as it can contain the original video, multiple language audio tracks, and multiple subtitle files all in one place.
About HEVC
This refers to a raw video stream encoded with the HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding) codec, also known as H.265. HEVC is the successor to H.264 and offers about 50% better compression efficiency, meaning it can deliver the same quality at half the file size. This makes it ideal for 4K and 8K streaming. A raw .hevc file must be placed in a container like MP4 or MKV to be useful.
MKV vs HEVC
| Feature | MKV | HEVC |
|---|---|---|
| Streaming Support | false | false |
| Subtitle Support | true | false |
| DRM Support | false | false |
| Quality Rating | 5 | 5 |
| Patent Status | open source | heavily patented |
| Year Introduced | 2002 | 2013 |
| Developed By | Matroska | ITU-T/ISO/IEC |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MKV better than MP4?
MKV is more flexible, as it's an open standard and can hold virtually any type of codec. MP4 has better compatibility, especially on mobile devices and streaming platforms. For storing high-quality video with multiple tracks, MKV is often preferred. For sharing and streaming, MP4 is the standard.
Will my TV play MKV files?
Many modern smart TVs and media players do support MKV files, but not all. Support often depends on the specific video and audio codecs used inside the MKV container. It's always best to check the device's specifications.
Is HEVC/H.265 the future of video?
It is the current standard for high-resolution video delivery (like 4K Blu-ray and streaming). However, its adoption has been hampered by complex and expensive patent licensing. Newer royalty-free codecs like AV1 are competing to become the next universal standard.
Why do I get an error playing an HEVC file?
Playing HEVC video requires either hardware or software support for the codec. Older devices may not have the necessary hardware decoders. You may need to update your media player, install a codec pack, or use a modern player like VLC that has built-in support for HEVC.
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