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Encoding Basics & Video File Formats

Learn how to properly encode your videos before uploading to ensure optimal playback on Uscreen

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What is Video Encoding

Video encoding is the process of converting and compressing video files into a format that's optimized for streaming. The term codec combines "coder" and "decoder." When sharing a video, you need a codec that first encodes the video file and then decodes it for viewing.

Proper encoding is essential because it:

  • Reduces file size without significant quality loss

  • Ensures compatibility across different devices and browsers

  • Improves streaming performance and reduces buffering

  • Provides consistent playback quality for all your viewers


Recommended Encoding Settings

For the best playback experience on Uscreen, follow these encoding guidelines:

Video Format and Bitrate Settings

Format

MP4 (file extension .mp4)

Aspect Ratio

16:9 landscape mode (recommended)

Codec

H.264 video codec (Main Profile)

Resolution

1080p/2K or smaller (max 2048x1152p)

Frame Rate

23.98 up to 60 FPS (Uscreen is best optimized for these specific frame rates)

Bitrate

8 Mbps or less (higher bitrates can cause playback issues)

  • For 1080p streaming: 5000 kbps (5 Mbps)

  • For 720p streaming: 3500 kbps (3.5 Mbps)

  • For 480p streaming: 1000 kbps (1 Mbps)

💡 TIP: Lower bitrates create smaller files that upload faster and stream more reliably, especially for viewers with slower internet connections.

Audio Format and Bitrate Settings

Audio Codec

AAC or MP3 (AAC preferred)

Audio Channels

Stereo (2 channels)

Audio Bitrate

128-192 kbps for optimal quality

Sample Rate

44.1 kHz or 48 kHz (standard for most content)

ℹ️ INFO: While our system works well with most audio formats, we recommend using AAC or MP3 for the fastest processing.

Additional Technical Specifications

Keyframe Interval

10-second max (2 seconds recommended for streaming)

Color Profile

Set to "1-1-1" (Rec.709 for color primaries, transfer characteristics, and color matrix)

Range

Video range (16–235) for compatibility with most broadcast and OTT platforms

Color Depth

8-bit 4:2:0 or less

GOP Structure

Closed GOP (group of pictures)

⚠️ WARNING: Please avoid using HDR color transfer functions like SMPTE2084 (Perceptual Quantizer or PQ) when encoding your video.

Using these settings can lead to transcoding failures and significant color quality issues when the content is played in the apps.

Preventing Color Distortion Issues

When you upload High Dynamic Range (HDR) videos to Uscreen, you might notice color distortion, especially on mobile apps. Videos that look vibrant on your web browser may appear washed out, and skin tones might have an unnatural, pale yellow tint on mobile devices.

HDR videos utilize a different color space compared to Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) videos. When our system processes (transcodes) HDR content without the correct color space conversion, it can lead to visually unappealing results.


Recommended Video Format

While Uscreen accepts various video formats, MP4 is strongly recommended for the best experience.

Why MP4 is Preferred

MP4 offers the best balance between video quality and playback experience for several reasons:

  • Compatible with virtually all web and mobile browsers

  • Works across multiple operating systems (computers, tablets, phones, game consoles, TVs)

  • Accepted by various media players and editing software

  • Maintains high quality despite relatively small file sizes

  • Industry standard for high-definition video content

Other Supported Formats

While MP4 is preferred, Uscreen also supports these formats with some limitations:

  • MOV

    • Larger file sizes may cause playback issues for users with slower connections

  • WMV

    • Not compatible with all devices

  • AVI

    • Very large file sizes (2-3GB per minute) can cause upload and playback issues

  • FLV/F4V/SWF

    • Not supported on iOS devices

  • MKV

    • Limited program support

  • AVCHD

    • Specialized format for high-definition recording

📝 NOTE: While these formats may work, you might experience upload issues and degraded playback for your users. For the best experience, we recommend converting to MP4 before uploading.


Recommended Encoding Software

Here are some popular tools for encoding your videos to meet Uscreen's specifications:

Free Options

Professional Options


FAQs

Can I upload 4K videos to Uscreen?

Uscreen does not currently support 4K or higher videos. We recommend encoding at 1080p/2K or smaller for optimal performance.

What's the difference between bitrate and resolution?

Resolution refers to the dimensions of your video (like 1920x1080), while bitrate is the amount of data processed per second (measured in Mbps). Higher bitrates generally mean better quality but larger file sizes.

Will re-encoding my video reduce its quality?

Some quality loss is inevitable during encoding, but using the recommended settings will minimize noticeable differences while optimizing for streaming.

How do I know if my video is already properly encoded?

Most video editing software allows you to check the properties or information of your video file to see its format, codec, resolution, and bitrate.

How can I encode audio files like podcasts for Uscreen?

Convert your audio to a video file (MP4) by adding a static image. Most video editing software allows you to import an audio file and add a still image to create a video.

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