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MP4 vs MKV: Playback Compatibility and Multiple Tracks

Both are containers for video, audio, and subtitles. Even if the file has the same extension, whether it can be played or not depends on the included codec. MKV is chosen for its large number of tracks, and MP4 is chosen for its distribution compatibility.

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MP4 vs MKV: Playback Compatibility and Multiple Tracks overview: Comparison criteria, Choosing for your situation, First steps to try, Operational notes
An overview of this guide’s steps and checks, not a screenshot of the app.

Who this guide is for and what to prepare

  • People who want to know the difference between MP4/MKV
  • People who want to start with a small, safe test

What you need

  • Make a test copy leaving the original data
  • Check the compatibility conditions and storage location of the destination

Comparison criteria

Both are containers for video, audio, and subtitles. Even if the file has the same extension, whether it can be played or not depends on the included codec. MKV is chosen for its large number of tracks, and MP4 is chosen for its distribution compatibility.

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Comparison criteria
standardMP4MKV
Play destinationWide range of devices and webCheck compatibility
subtitle audioThere are implementation differencesFlexible for multiple tracks
judgementAlso check the codecAlso check the codec

Choosing for your situation

MP4 is a good option if you specify a TV or posting destination, and MKV is a good option if you want the original recording to preserve multiple audio and subtitles. Also check your editing software.

A container is a box, and a codec is a compression method inside the box. "MP4 doesn't necessarily mean H.264" or "MKV means high quality". If the delivery destination specifies MP4/H.264/AAC, three conditions must be met. If you simply transfer an unsupported codec in MKV to MP4, you will not be able to play it; conversely, if you use a supported codec, you may be able to change the box without recompressing. We also check that the editing software supports subtitle formats and variable frame rates.

First steps to try

Store 10 seconds of material in both formats using the same codec, and try video, audio, seek, and subtitle switching on all devices.

  1. Record the video/audio codec and number of subtitles of the original video on the confirmation screen of MediaInfo etc.
  2. Remux to MP4 with settings to copy the same codec and check the processing log
  3. Store the same material in MKV and check switching between multiple audio and subtitles
  4. Try playback, seeking, and audio switching on TV, browser, smartphone, and editing software
  5. If re-encoded, compare the same scene as the original video at the same size.

Operational notes

Distinguish between container modification and re-encoding. Keep the original and check length, frame rate, and audio.

Limitations and requirements

  • Don't change just the extension
  • Playability also depends on the codec.

Frequently asked questions

Does it deteriorate with MP4 conversion?

If you just restorage, there is no need to recompress.

Which one do you record?

Check the app's corruption tolerance and conversion steps.

Official sources and verification date

Sources checked: . Check the official sources below for changes to supported systems, plans and menus.

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