VP8 vs VP9

VP8 vs VP9: Google's codec evolution. VP9 offers significantly better compression than VP8 and is the standard for WebM today.

Quick Compress
Choose a file, pick how small it should be, and compress locally.
%

Percentage is applied to the original file size.

Detailed Comparison

CategoryVP8VP9Winner
File SizeBaseline - similar to H.26450% smaller than VP8VP9
QualityGood - comparable to H.264Excellent - comparable to H.265VP9
Encoding SpeedModerateSlowVP8
AdoptionLegacy - being phased outCurrent standard for WebMVP9
Browser SupportGood but decliningExcellent in modern browsersVP9

Head-to-Head Comparison

  • File Size: VP8 - Baseline - similar to H.264 | VP9 - 50% smaller than VP8
  • Quality: VP8 - Good - comparable to H.264 | VP9 - Excellent - comparable to H.265
  • Encoding Speed: VP8 - Moderate | VP9 - Slow
  • Adoption: VP8 - Legacy - being phased out | VP9 - Current standard for WebM
  • Browser Support: VP8 - Good but declining | VP9 - Excellent in modern browsers

Which Should You Choose?

  • Use VP9 for all new WebM content
  • VP8 only for legacy compatibility
  • VP9 is ideal for YouTube uploads
  • No reason to use VP8 for new projects

The Verdict

VP9 is generally better for most users, but both have their place depending on your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better: VP8 or VP9?

VP9 is generally better for most users, but VP8 has advantages in specific scenarios. Use VP9 for all new WebM content.

What's the main difference between VP8 and VP9?

The key differences are: File Size - VP8: Baseline - similar to H.264, VP9: 50% smaller than VP8; Quality - VP8: Good - comparable to H.264, VP9: Excellent - comparable to H.265.

Can I convert between VP8 and VP9?

Yes! Upload your video in either format, select the output format you want, and compress. The conversion happens locally in your browser with no uploads.

Which should I use for file size?

For file size: VP9 is better. 50% smaller than VP8.

Related Comparisons

VP9 vs AV1VP8 vs H.264H.264 vs VP9