About Encode lab
Free in-browser encode lab: H.264 vs VP9 vs AV1 on your own video. Encode a short sample with each codec at the same bitrate, compare file size, SSIM and PSNR, sweep a CRF-style bitrate ladder and find the sweet spot. No upload, no sign-up.
How to use Encode lab
- 1Open Encode lab, add a supported media file, and check the processing notice shown in the tool.
- 2Choose the settings and review the preview, waveform or analysis before processing.
- 3Start processing, then download the finished file when it is ready.
How your file is processed
Encode lab tells you where processing happens. Browser-only operations keep the file on your device; transcription and server processing upload only the media they need and apply the account limits shown in the tool.
Frequently asked questions
Is Encode lab free?
The tool shows its access rules before processing. Browser-only operations are free and need no account; transcription and server processing can require an account and use the limits of your plan.
Are my files uploaded anywhere?
It depends on the operation. Browser-only tools keep the file on your device. Auto subtitles uploads only detected speech segments, while server processing uploads the selected file; each tool states this before you start.
Which formats does Encode lab accept?
The upload field and output selector show the formats available for that operation. Browser support and the selected codec can affect which output formats are enabled.
Does Encode lab work on a phone or tablet?
Yes, on a current version of Chrome, Safari or Edge. Speed depends on the device, so a long clip takes longer on a phone than on a laptop — the tool tells you its limits up front rather than failing part way through.
Why can processing change the file?
Edits that change picture or sound require decoding and re-encoding. A container change or fast keyframe trim may copy packets instead. The tool states which path it uses, because re-encoding can change quality, size or metadata.