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What video format plays in WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps, with over 2 billion users worldwide. It allows users to send messages, photos, videos, documents and more to individuals or groups. When it comes to videos, WhatsApp supports most common video formats and codecs.

Quick Answer

The video formats supported by WhatsApp include MP4, 3GP, MOV, MKV, AVI, and more. The recommended video codec is H.264, and videos up to 16MB in size can be sent.

Supported Video Formats

Here are the main video formats supported on WhatsApp:

  • MP4 – The most compatible format. Uses H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec.
  • 3GP – An older but compatible format. Uses H.264 video and AMR audio.
  • MOV – Works well and uses H.264 video and AAC audio.
  • MKV – Compatible but may need re-encoding to standard codecs.
  • AVI – Supported but not recommended as it may need re-encoding.
  • WMV – Supported on some devices but not recommended.

Apart from these, some less common video formats like FLV, WEBM, M2TS may also work on certain devices if they use the standard H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec.

Recommended Video Specifications

To ensure maximum compatibility, it is recommended to use MP4 or 3GP video files at the following specifications:

  • Resolution: 480p or 720p preferred.
  • Video Codec: H.264.
  • Audio Codec: AAC.
  • File size: Less than 16MB.
  • Aspect ratio: 16:9 recommended.
  • Frame rate: 30fps.
  • Bitrate: 2-6 mbps.

Adhering to these video specs will ensure your videos play smoothly in WhatsApp on Android, iOS, and across devices.

Video Size Limit

WhatsApp allows videos up to 16MB to be shared. If you try to send a video larger than 16MB, it will be automatically compressed or resized to fit under the limit.

Some key points on WhatsApp video size limit:

  • The 16MB file size limit is applicable when sharing via chats or groups.
  • Longer videos can be shared by using WhatsApp Status which has a limit of 30 seconds.
  • WhatsApp also provides the option to share videos from Google Drive or Dropbox links which don’t have a size limit.
  • Videos exceeding 16MB may affect upload speeds and will take longer time to send.
  • To share longer videos, compress them to under 16MB using video converter tools.

How to Compress Videos for WhatsApp

If you need to compress videos to send on WhatsApp, here are some tips:

  • Use video converter or compressor tools like Handbrake, Adobe Media Encoder, Avidemux, etc to reduce video size.
  • Lower resolution to 480p or 720p as higher resolutions will result in larger file sizes.
  • Lower frame rate to 24-30fps for suitable quality.
  • Use optimal video bitrate around 3000kbps.
  • Use optimal audio bitrate of 128kbps.
  • Trim longer videos into shorter segments under 16MB.
  • Convert unsupported formats like AVI/WMV into MP4.

Compressing videos properly before sending them via WhatsApp is recommended. This will ensure faster upload time and compatibility across devices.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are unable to play videos on WhatsApp, here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Convert to recommended MP4 or 3GP format with H.264 codec.
  • Check if the video file size is under 16MB.
  • Lower resolution and bitrates while compressing.
  • Update WhatsApp to the latest version.
  • Update your phone’s OS and video/audio codecs.
  • Clear WhatsApp cache and re-send the video file.
  • Try sharing Google Drive or Dropbox link if direct file doesn’t work.

Following these steps can help resolve any playback issues with videos on WhatsApp in most cases. Re-encoding videos to the supported format is the key fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum video size allowed on WhatsApp?

WhatsApp allows sending videos up to 16MB in size in chats and groups. For longer videos, use WhatsApp Status (up to 30 secs) or Google Drive/Dropbox links.

Does WhatsApp support MP4 videos?

Yes, MP4 is the most compatible and recommended format for WhatsApp. MP4 videos using H.264 video codec and AAC audio will play on all devices.

Can I play MOV files on WhatsApp?

MOV files are supported on WhatsApp as long as they are encoded with H.264 video and AAC audio. Re-encode if needed.

What is the ideal video resolution and size for WhatsApp?

480p or 720p resolution with H.264 codec, under 16MB size and aspect ratio of 16:9 is the ideal video format for WhatsApp.

How do I convert MP4 to WhatsApp video?

To convert any video to WhatsApp-friendly MP4 format:

  1. Use a video converter tool or software.
  2. Select MP4 format and H.264 + AAC codec.
  3. Set resolution to 480p/720p with 16:9 aspect ratio.
  4. Lower frame rate to 30fps if needed.
  5. Set optimal bitrate around 3000kbps.
  6. Export and compress to under 16MB.

Why are some videos I received on WhatsApp corrupted?

Corrupted or unsupported video format, incompatible codecs, or files exceeding 16MB size limit can cause videos to be corrupted on WhatsApp. Ask the sender to re-encode and re-send.

Can I play 4K or 1080p videos on WhatsApp?

No, WhatsApp does not support very high resolution 4K or full HD 1080p videos. Compress and convert them to 480p or 720p before sending on WhatsApp for best compatibility.

Conclusion

To summarize, WhatsApp supports common video formats like MP4, 3GP, MOV and more. For best compatibility across devices, use MP4 files with H.264 codec, AAC audio, 480p/720p resolution, 30fps, and under 16MB size. Compress videos that exceed 16MB before sharing on WhatsApp. Avoid formats like AVI and WMV, and very high resolution 4K/1080p video to prevent playback issues.