MOV vs. MP4: What Is the Difference – Movavi Video Converter

MOV vs. MP4 – what are the key differences between these two file formats? Though these files have plenty in common, you need to understand the differences before using either.

What is a MOV file?

What is a MOV file? Why are these so frequently used? MOV files are a video container format. Technically, the video contained within is MPEG-4, with MOV used to contain the video file as well as other data such as file information, chapters, and more. It was created for use in Apple’s QuickTime program but is now used in a variety of programs. Though it was made by Apple back in the 1990s, it is still used today, and not just on Apple devices but on Windows and other devices, too.

What is an MP4 file?

MP4 files were created in the early 2000s by the Motion Picture Experts Group (MPEG). This is how they get their name, MPEG-4. This is contained within the MP4 and has become one of the standard ways of compressing videos. An MP4 format file is a container form just like a .mov file format. This file contains not only the video file but also has data encapsulated within.