How to Make a Video File Smaller on Mac
In today’s digital age, managing video files can be a challenging task, especially when you have limited storage space on your Mac. Whether you’re trying to free up space or send a video via email, reducing the file size of a video on your Mac is a valuable skill. This article will guide you through various methods to make a video file smaller on Mac, ensuring that you can efficiently manage your digital library.
1. Use QuickTime Player
QuickTime Player, a built-in application on Mac, offers a simple way to compress video files. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the video file in QuickTime Player.
2. Click on “File” in the menu bar and select “Export As.”
3. Choose the format you want to export the video in (e.g., MP4, MOV).
4. Click on the “Options” button and adjust the settings to reduce the file size. You can adjust the resolution, frame rate, and compression settings.
5. Click “Export” to save the compressed video file.
2. Utilize HandBrake
HandBrake is a free and open-source video transcoder that provides a wide range of customization options for compressing video files. Here’s how to use HandBrake to make a video file smaller on Mac:
1. Download and install HandBrake from their official website.
2. Open HandBrake and drag the video file you want to compress into the program.
3. Select the desired output format and choose the destination folder.
4. In the “Video” tab, adjust the resolution, aspect ratio, and frame rate to reduce the file size.
5. In the “Audio” tab, you can reduce the bitrate to further compress the file.
6. Click “Start Encode” to begin the compression process.
3. Use iMovie
iMovie, another built-in application on Mac, allows you to trim and compress video files. Here’s how to use iMovie for this purpose:
1. Open iMovie and import the video file you want to compress.
2. Drag the video into the timeline and select it.
3. Click on “File” in the menu bar and select “Export.”
4. Choose the desired format and adjust the settings to reduce the file size. You can trim the video to remove unnecessary parts or adjust the compression settings.
5. Click “Export” to save the compressed video file.
4. Use Compressor
Compressor is a professional video transcoding application that offers advanced features for compressing video files. While it is not free, it provides a wide range of customization options. Here’s how to use Compressor to make a video file smaller on Mac:
1. Download and install Compressor from the Mac App Store.
2. Open Compressor and click on “File” in the menu bar and select “New Queue.”
3. Drag the video file you want to compress into the queue.
4. Choose the desired format and adjust the settings to reduce the file size. You can use the built-in presets or customize the settings manually.
5. Click “Start Queue” to begin the compression process.
In conclusion, there are several methods to make a video file smaller on Mac. By using QuickTime Player, HandBrake, iMovie, or Compressor, you can efficiently manage your video files and free up valuable storage space on your Mac.
