Digital videos are one of the most popular types of multimedia mediums. In today’s digitally-driven world, videos are used and featured everywhere, from social media platforms to websites.
Thanks to the popularity of the medium, numerous types of digital video formats are readily available for users, each of which packs in different features and has specific capabilities. One such popular video format is MKV.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the MKV file format and list numerous aspects related to it that every individual who wishes to use it should know. So let us dive right into it:
What is the MKV File Format?
MKV stands for Matroska Video Files. As its name suggests, it is a container format that supports or is compatible with lots of pictures, audio files, and subtitle tracks. The format closely resembles other digital video formats, like the MOV or AVI format.
The MKV format is capable of storing a much larger amount of data as compared to other similar video formats, which is what makes it one of the favorite digital video formats of filmmakers. Due to this reason, the format is also referred to as a universal or all-in-one video format.
How to Open MKV Files:
The MKV file format is very versatile, i.e., users of all platforms, including Windows and macOS, can easily access it using specific video players. Here is a brief look at some video players that macOS and Windows users can use to open MKV files:
macOS – There are numerous video players users can use for watching MKV on Mac. For example, Elmedia Player is an amazing video that is compatible with many digital video formats, including MKV. In addition, the powerful media player offers excellent playback control, a robust audio equalizer, and numerous similar features. Other popular players include Movist Pro, Perian, etc.
Windows – Like macOS, Windows users can also easily access and open MKV files using multiple media players. VLC Media Player is one fine example. It is a highly-versatile video player full of top-tier playback and control features. Besides this, users can also consider opting for other players like the GOM Player, Aiseesoft Player, etc.
Benefits of the MKV File Format:
Here are some of the most prominent benefits of using the MKV file format:
- The MKV format is highly versatile. MKV files can easily be opened or accessed by using numerous media players. This aspect of the popular digital video format makes it highly popular among professional video creators.
- It supports metadata, which facilitates users to identify a file’s characteristics, which in turn makes it easier for individuals to search, use, and manage the file. Besides metadata, it also supports chapters and menus.
- The format offers both hard and soft-coded subtitle support. Soft-coded or soft subtitles can easily be toggled on or off in a media player, whereas hard-coded subtitles cannot be switched on or off.
- The popular digital video format supports error recovery for the playback of corrupted files. This allows video editors to make changes or retrieve important data in the file.
- The MKV video format supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Italian, etc. The multiple language support capability of the file format significantly contributes to its global popularity.
Important Facts About the MKV File Format:
Here is a brief look at some important facts about the MKV file format:
- The format is derived from MCF or the Multimedia Container Format, which is deemed the first-ever project created for a media container capable of packing videos, audio, and subtitle files under a single digital file.
- The Matroska File format packs in four series for different types of files. The series include MKA for audio clips, MKS for subtitles, MK3D for stereoscopic 3-Dimensional videos, and lastly, MKV for video files featuring audio and subtitles.
- A common myth about the MKV format is that it is an audio or video compression codec. However, it is not. It is a digital container format that stores numerous audio clips, videos, and subtitles in a single place. The format is generally used for storing large movies or CDs.
- The container format is open-source, meaning that any interested individual can use it to store audio, video, and subtitles. In fact, it is also free for commercial companies that wish to use it to sell their digital offerings.
Conclusion:
The MKV container is used by millions of individuals around the globe for storing different types of multimedia files, including audio, video, and subtitles. It can also be converted to different formats like MP4, MOV, AVI, etc., without hassle. Moreover, since it is open-source, it is easily and readily available to everyone.
Thanks to its top-tier features and the benefits it offers, it is the go-to choice of the majority of filmmakers and video creators globally.
