MP4 vs MPEG4

To explain the difference between MP4 and MPEG4, we have to clarify two other terms first.

Codec is a program that encodes and decodes a signal. Media codecs not only convert audio and video streams into digital signals, but also compress them to make them more suitable for online transmission.

Media container is a technology that allows embedding several data streams in one multimedia file. Most often they are audio, video, subtitles, sometimes – extra meta-data. We can also say, it’s a file extension.

What is MPEG4

MPEG4 is a codec. It’s a compression method by Moving Picture Experts Group that developed standards for video and audio encoding. Unlike other formats compressed with MPEG, MPEG-4 formats can store still images, subtitles, video, audio, and other essential data. They are not all compatible with most devices and digital platforms.

What is MP4

MP4 is a media container format that was developed in 2001 by International Organization for Standardization. It can store not only video and audio but also images and text. The format is supported by almost all devices, websites and social media platforms. It provides high quality with low storage capacity.

Are MP4 and MPEG4 the same thing?

The short answer is “No”. But why?

MP4 is a video format, it can store different media and it’s usually compressed with the MPEG4 codec but not always. While MPEG4 itself can be applied for different file formats including MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, OGG and MXF.

How to convert MPEG4 to MP4

Clideo has a full range of online tools that help to edit recordings and change their output format if necessary.

Our service is compatible with more than 24 video formats, MP4 and MPEG4 included, it is fast, reliable and user-friendly. You can enjoy the full functionality for free under the condition that your files don’t exceed 500 MB each and you are ready to bear with a tiny watermark in the bottom left corner of the edited shooting.

If you want to process larger files and get rid of the watermark, just subscribe to Clideo Pro.

If you don’t want to edit a video and you need only a format change, use our Online Converter.