What Is the Difference Between MKV Files and MP4 Files?

MP4 (MPEG-4) files and MKV (Matroska Video) files are two container formats for storing digital video. Both video formats have advantages and disadvantages, which vary depending on their intended purpose and audience.

Definition

A container format takes a number of streams--for example, video and audio--and packs them into a single file, which syncs the different streams correctly during playback.

File Formats

MP4 files must contain audio in AAC format and video in MPEG-4 format. MKV files, on the other hand, can support a number of different video and audio formats. MKV files can also support multiple audio tracks and subtitle tracks. MP4 files can only support one audio track, and subtitles must be saved as a separate file.

Uses

Because they can support multiple language tracks, MKV files are popular for foreign language videos, such as anime. MP4 files are better for online video and video files with a wide audience, however, because they are small for their quality, and they are compatible with more video players.

References

• FileInfo.com: .MKV File Extension
• FileInfo.com: .MP4 File Extension
• TopBits.com: MKV File
• Zimbio: History of MP4 Technology (by Apple)
• Matroska: FAQ