## Overview

Compresto allows you to choose the video encoding codec used during compression. The codec affects the compression efficiency, file size, and compatibility of your output videos.

## Available Codecs

| Codec | Description |
| --- | --- |
| **H.264 (Recommended)** | Widely compatible codec supported by virtually all devices and platforms |
| **H.265/HEVC** | Newer codec with better compression efficiency but limited compatibility |

## Comparison

### H.264

- **Compatibility**: Excellent - works on almost all devices, browsers, and platforms
- **Compression**: Good compression with reliable quality
- **Processing speed**: Generally faster encoding
- **Best for**: General use, sharing online, maximum compatibility

### H.265/HEVC

- **Compatibility**: Limited - may not work on older devices or some browsers
- **Compression**: Better compression (smaller files at same quality)
- **Processing speed**: Slower encoding
- **Best for**: Archiving, when file size is critical, newer Apple devices

## How to Configure

1. Open Compresto
2. Go to **Settings** > **Advanced**
3. Select your preferred codec from the **Video encoding codec** dropdown

H.264 is recommended for most users due to its wide compatibility. Only use H.265/HEVC if you specifically need smaller file sizes and your target devices support it.

## Learn More

For a detailed comparison of H.264 vs H.265, visit our [blog post](/content/blog/h264-vs-h265/index.html).