Top 9 Ways to Compress MKV Files Quickly and Efficiently

Looking to compress MKV files? Our list of simple online, mobile, and PC options lets you compress your desired formats quickly and easily. Save space and keep quality with these tools.

compress mkv
CapCut
CapCut2024-08-05
0 min(s)

Compressing MKV files without sacrificing quality is crucial for anyone who wants to save storage space or share high-definition videos easily. Whether you're a content creator, filmmaker, or just someone with a collection of videos, finding the right tools to compress your MKV files can make a significant difference.

In this article, we explore the best free tools available to compress MKV files, ensuring you maintain the original quality while achieving a smaller file size.

Table of content

What is the MKV file

An MKV file, or Matroska Multimedia Container, is a versatile format that includes multiple video, audio, and subtitle tracks within a single file. It is popular for its flexibility and ability to support various codecs, making it a preferred choice for high-quality video storage. MKV files are often used to distribute high-definition video content due to their efficient handling of large files without significant loss of quality.

Why compress the MKV file

  1. Reduce file size
  2. Compression significantly reduces the file size, making it easier to store large video collections without consuming too much disk space.
  3. Faster uploads and downloads
  4. Smaller file sizes mean quicker upload and download times, which is especially beneficial when sharing videos online or transferring them between devices.
  5. Improved playback performance
  6. Compressed files are easier to handle for most media players, ensuring smoother playback, especially on devices with limited processing power.
  7. Efficient streaming
  8. Reduced file size aids in smoother streaming experiences, as smaller files require less bandwidth and are less likely to buffer.
  9. Backup and archiving

Compressed MKV files take up less storage space, making it more efficient to back up and archive important video content for long-term storage.

Top 3 MKV file compressors for PC

When it comes to compressing MKV files without quality loss, choosing the right tool is crucial. Let's explore the top three MKV file compressors that are available for PCs, each offering unique features to meet your video compression needs.

1. CapCut desktop video editor: The best way to compress MKV without losing quality

CapCut desktop video editor is an excellent choice for compressing MKV file size while preserving video quality. Known for its user-friendly design and robust editing features, CapCut makes it easy to fine-tune video settings to achieve optimal compression. This tool allows users to adjust resolution, bitrate, and other parameters, ensuring that the file size is reduced without compromising the clarity and quality of the video.


Interface of the Capcut desktop video editor - the best tool to shrink MKV file size

  • Compress MKV without affecting quality: CapCut ensures that the original video quality is preserved after compression, providing users with a seamless viewing experience.
  • Quick compression process time: The software is designed to change video frame rate and compress videos efficiently, saving users time and allowing for quicker workflow.
  • Adjust your desired parameters: Users can customize settings like codec, format, and convert video resolution, offering flexibility to optimize videos for various platforms and uses.
  • Easier media sharing on social media: With optimized file sizes, sharing videos on social media becomes faster and more convenient, enhancing user engagement and reach.

  • Some features are limited to specific regions.
  • Lower-end devices may face performance challenges.

How to compress an MKV file with CapCut

To reduce MKV file size, download the free CapCut desktop video editor. Run the installer and follow the setup instructions. After installation, sign in using your Facebook, Google, or TikTok credentials.

    Step
  1. Import video
  2. Open CapCut and begin a new project. Use the "Import" option to upload your video file from your device.
  3. 
    Importing MKV files in the Capcut desktop video editor
  4. Step
  5. Edit and fine-tune (optional)
  6. After uploading your video, place it in the timeline. Then, fine-tune your project using various features of CapCut. You can add various transitions, effects, and filters to make your video visually appealing. There is a music library where you can choose the music that suits your video. Additionally, you can use advanced features like "Stabilize" to steady shaky footage and "Retouch" to refine details. These tools allow for comprehensive editing, ensuring your video achieves a professional finish.
  7. 
    Editing video using various tools in the CapCut desktop video editor
  8. Step
  9. Compress and export

Once you're finished, go to the “Export” option in CapCut. Adjust settings such as codec and lower the resolution, framerate, and format to compress the MKV file to MP4 or MOV, then click "Export." You can also share the video directly on YouTube or TikTok.


Exporting compressed MKV video from the CapCut desktop video editor

2. Movavi Video Converter

Movavi Video Converter is a versatile tool designed to deliver high-quality video compression while offering an array of additional editing features. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows and supports over 180 popular formats, providing a variety of presets for different devices. Notably, Movavi's SuperSpeed mode accelerates the compression process, and its AI Upscaling feature enhances the quality of low-resolution videos.


  • Beginner-friendly and intuitive interface.
  • Supports over 180 video, audio, and image formats.
  • Fast compression speed, up to 79x faster.
  • Includes a preview option to check quality before full compression.

  • The trial version adds a watermark and has some limitations.
  • Compression speed may be slower on older or lower-end devices.

Movavi Video Converter interface showing MKV file compression settings

3. VideoProc

VideoProc offers a robust solution for compressing MKV files, combining high-quality video processing with extensive editing features. It enables detailed control over compression settings, ensuring that video quality is maintained while file size is reduced. Suitable for users needing professional results, VideoProc supports batch processing and various video formats.


  • High-quality compression preserves video integrity.
  • Includes a range of editing tools and format conversion options.
  • Supports batch processing for multiple files.
  • Customizable settings for codec, resolution, and bitrate.

  • Full functionality requires a paid license.
  • The interface may be complex for beginners.

VideoProc editor interface displaying MKV file compression settings and export options

Top 3 MKV file compressors online

When it comes to compressing MKV files online, multiple tools stand out for their ease of use and efficiency. Whether you need a quick solution or more advanced features, these online compressors can handle your needs without requiring software installation. Let’s explore the top three MKV size reducers available online.

1. Filxier

Filxier is a versatile online tool for compressing MKV files. It offers a straightforward interface and powerful features. It allows users to upload and adjust video compression settings quickly, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to manage video file sizes efficiently without the need for complex software.


  • User-friendly interface simplifies the compression process.
  • Allows customization of compression settings to balance quality and size.
  • Supports a variety of video formats beyond MKV.
  • No software installation is required, accessible directly from the browser.

  • Limited advanced editing features in the free version.
  • Requires internet connection for file processing.

Interface of Flixier showing how to compress MKV files online

2. Clideo

Clideo is a popular tool to compress MKV files online and is known for its straightforward process. It provides various settings options, like basic, strong, and superb, to adjust the size and quality of your video files according to your requirements. It is a reliable option for users who need to manage their MKV files quickly and efficiently.


  • Simple and intuitive interface for easy navigation.
  • Effective compression with customizable quality settings.
  • Supports various file formats and codecs.
  • Fast processing speeds for quick results.

  • The free version includes watermarks on exported files.
  • Limited control over advanced compression parameters.

Interface of Clideo - the popular MKV video compressor online

3. Video Candy

Video Candy is an efficient online MKV Video compressor that balances ease of use with powerful features. It provides users with options to customize compression settings and manage video quality, ensuring a seamless process for reducing file sizes while maintaining visual integrity.


  • Easy-to-use interface with clear compression options.
  • High-quality compression maintains video clarity.
  • Supports various video formats and resolutions.
  • Provides quick processing with minimal waiting time.

  • May require registration for full access to features.
  • Limited advanced settings compared to desktop software.

Interface of Video candy - the best editor to make MKV files smaller online

Top 3 MKV file compressors for mobile

When managing MKV files on the go, choosing the right compressor app can make a significant difference in achieving efficient and high-quality compression. Here are three top mobile apps that excel in compressing MKV files while maintaining ease of use and functionality.

1. CapCut mobile app

CapCut offers a robust solution for compressing MKV files directly from your mobile device. Known for its versatile editing features and user-friendly interface, CapCut allows users to make MKV files smaller without sacrificing quality. Whether you're looking to share videos or free up storage space, CapCut provides an efficient and streamlined approach to video compression.


  • Efficiently reduces MKV file sizes.
  • Easy-to-use interface for quick navigation.
  • Includes trimming, cropping, and enhancement features.
  • Offers flexible export formats and resolutions.

  • A stable internet connection is required.
  • Some features are not free.

Steps to compress MKV video using CapCut mobile app

2. Resize Video

Resize Video is a powerful mobile app designed to efficiently compress MKV videos without sacrificing quality. Its user-friendly interface and extensive customization options make it an excellent choice for users who need to reduce video size while maintaining high resolution. Whether you’re optimizing videos for social media or simply need a smaller file, Resize Video offers a versatile solution.


  • Customizable compression settings for tailored results.
  • Supports multiple formats including MP4, AVI, MKV, and more.
  • Optimizes videos for various social media platforms.
  • Keeps the original video intact while generating a compressed copy.

  • Limited advanced editing features.
  • Compression may affect video quality depending on settings.

Usinge Resize Video app to compress MKV video

3. Video Converter and Compressor

The Video Converter and Compressor app is a versatile tool for mobile devices. It supports various video formats, such as MP4, MKV, AVI, and more. It allows users to efficiently convert, compress, and adjust video resolution, frame rates, and bitrates. Additionally, the app can extract audio from video files and convert them into various formats.


  • Supports a wide array of video formats.
  • Offers customization of resolution, frame rate, and bitrate.
  • Provides audio extraction and conversion capabilities.
  • Includes trimming and merging tools for easy editing.

  • Limited to basic compression and lacks advanced editing tools.
  • The interface may be complex for beginners.

Image showing steps to make MKV file smaller using Focus Video app

Tips for optimized MKV file compression

Consider the following tips when you opt for MKV file compression.

  1. Choose the right codec
  2. Using efficient codecs like H.265 (HEVC) can significantly reduce file size while maintaining video quality. This codec compresses video data more effectively than older codecs, making it ideal for MKV files.
  3. Adjust bitrate settings
  4. Lowering the bitrate can reduce file size, but be cautious; too low a bitrate can degrade video quality. Aim for a balance where the video remains clear and detailed without unnecessarily large file sizes.
  5. Reduce resolution
  6. If the original video resolution is very high, consider reducing it. For instance, downscaling from 4K to 1080p can drastically decrease the file size without a noticeable loss in quality for most screens.
  7. Trim unnecessary footage
  8. Remove parts of the video that aren't needed, such as lengthy intros or outros. This helps reduce the overall file size and focuses the content on what's essential.
  9. Optimize compression settings

Fine-tune compression settings such as frame rate, aspect ratio, and quality presets to balance file size and video quality. Use presets tailored for specific devices or platforms to ensure optimal results without excessive quality loss.

Conclusion

In conclusion, compressing MKV files is essential for efficient storage and smooth playback. Various free tools are available to help you compress MKV files while maintaining the integrity of your video. However, for those seeking a versatile and reliable solution, the CapCut desktop video editor stands out. It supports MKV files and offers advanced compression options, ensuring you get the best balance between file size and quality.

FAQs

  1. How do you compress MKV to MP4?
  2. To compress MKV to MP4, you can use a video converter like CapCut desktop video editor. Simply import your MKV file, select MP4 as the output format, and adjust the bitrate, resolution, and frame rate to compress the file. CapCut’s versatile export settings make it easy to optimize your video for size and quality.
  3. How can I shrink MKV files for emails?
  4. To reduce MKV video size for emails, you can use online compression tools like Vido Candy or Clideo. These tools let you adjust settings such as resolution and bitrate to reduce file size while keeping quality intact. To compress videos while maintaining high quality, use the CapCut desktop video editor.
  5. Which is the best free MKV compressor software?
  6. The CapCut desktop video editor is the best MKV compressor software and is free to download. It provides efficient compression without sacrificing quality by allowing adjustments to export settings such as bitrate, resolution, frame rate, and codec. Moreover, it supports multiple file formats, making it a versatile tool for video editing.
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