Browser FFmpeg recipe
Set Video Bitrate Online with FFmpeg
Create an MP4 encoded around a target video bitrate.
Command
Run this FFmpeg command
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v libx264 -b:v 2500k -maxrate 3000k -bufsize 5000k -c:a aac -b:a 128k bitrate.mp4When to use it
- bitrate limits
- streaming prep
- predictable file size
How it works
- Upload the video.
- Set the target bitrate and maxrate values.
- Run FFmpeg and download the encoded MP4.
Option reference
| Option | What it does |
|---|---|
-b:v 2500k | Sets the target video bitrate. |
-maxrate 3000k | Limits bitrate peaks. |
-bufsize 5000k | Sets rate control buffer size. |
Practical notes
- CRF usually gives better quality-per-size for simple file compression.
- Bitrate targets are useful when a platform has a strict limit.
FAQ
Should I use bitrate or CRF?
Use bitrate for target limits and CRF for general quality-based compression.
Will this make exact file sizes?
No, but bitrate settings make size more predictable.