Guide for HandBrake Compress Video Using Built-In and Alternative Ways

Large footage or videos quickly consume valuable storage space and make uploading to social platforms a slow process. There are times when users even encounter upload failures. This struggle results in a frustration that you will feel hopeless about uploading or sharing those witty and funny videos. Don't lose hope yet, as HandBrake might have the solution. Yes, HandBrake is capable of reducing file sizes by providing you with advanced compression capabilities. That being said, this post will help you master how to compress a video with HandBrake in no time. You'll learn the recommended settings for shrinking clips for mobile sharing and archiving videos efficiently. Read along to learn more.

Part 1: How to Use HandBrake to Compress a Video

HandBrake simplifies video compression with its powerful built-in presets in an intuitive interface. It streamlines reducing video file sizes while maintaining quality. Additionally, the tool comes with ready-to-use presets designed for social media platforms, mobile device sharing, and saving storage space on your hardware. If you just want to choose a preset and not configure anything, the tool offers preconfigured profiles that automatically adjust quality settings, format, and resolution. On top of that, you can opt for advanced options to have full control over finer details, including bitrate, codecs, and hardware acceleration. This program enables you to leverage GPU-acceleration using GPU-accelerated encoding such as Quick Sync, AMD, NVENC, and VCE. Now, if reduced file size is your top priority, the H.265 codec can cut file sizes in half without noticeable detail loss. Therefore, here is a guide on how to compress a video on HandBrake:

Step 1First, you need to download the program's updated version of the app from its official website. Then, install and launch the application on your computer.

Step 2Once the app is launched, click the File > Open Source from the main interface or select the Open Source option in the top-left menu.

Step 3Next is to access the presets. To do it, select the Presets button in the top menu to reveal the profiles offered by the tool. Each preset comes with settings you may alter. Go to the Video tab and edit the settings, including FPS, Video Encoder, Constant Framerate, and Constant Quality.

Step 4For an added decrease in the file size, go to the Audio tab. It is recommended to set a bitrate lower than 192, but 160 is a sweet spot.

Step 5Hit Add to Queue on the top bar if you wish to reduce another video and compress them all at once.

Step 6Once satisfied, select the Start Encode button and wait for the compression process to finish. The output will result in a compressed MP4 format.

Part 2: How to Compress Video with HandBrake Online

HandBrake offers downloadable software for Windows, macOS, and Linux systems. However, if you find the software troublesome with the settings and menu you need to master, an online tool is the solution. True enough, HandBrake comes with an online service that enables users to reduce video file size automatically. Using this browser-based compression tool, you can reduce the file size by up to 80% of its original size. Moreover, the tool enables users to process multiple videos simultaneously. The only problem with this feature is that it takes a while to finish the compression, which may seem not to be working. Anyway, you can let it run while doing other tasks.

Step 1Begin by visiting the official website of the program using your favorite browser.

Step 2On the homepage, click the Upload button and load the files you wish to compress.

Step 3Once the video/s is loaded, the tool will compress it automatically. You should see the green label done when the tool finishes processing.

Step 4Finally, save the compressed video/s by clicking the Download button.

Part 3: 2 Best HandBrake Alternatives to Compress Videos

If you are not satisfied with the built-in features of HandBrake to compress video files, you may opt for the following approaches, both for online and desktop users. Check them out to learn more.

1. AVAide Video Converter

For another desktop compression tool that delivers quick results without technical complexity, AVAide Video Converter is a perfect solution for this kind of need. This program comes with a straightforward process and does not need manual settings adjustments, unlike traditional tools. Its intuitive slider enables you to visually control compression level by just dragging it, allowing you to see real-time size estimates. Furthermore, users may input their desired file size for your precision needs. For power users, the tool is integrated with advanced controls such as format conversion, resolution scaling, and bitrate adjustment. On top of that, the tool delivers convenience for everyday compression needs for messaging apps, storage optimization, and social media. Here is how to compress a video in HandBrake alternative:

Step 1Download and install the app

To start, click the Free Download button provided below to get the app and install it on your computer. Once the installation is done, launch it on your computer.

Step 2Access the Video Compressor

After opening the application, select the Toolbox tab in the top menu. From this tab, choose the Video Compressor option in the selection.

Step 3Upload the video to compress

Next, load the video by clicking the Plus button in the video compressor window. Then, select the video that you wish to compress.

Step 4Adjust the compression strength

To adjust the compression strength, drag the slider to the left for smaller files or right for better quality. For precision, you can enter your desired file size, and the software will automatically optimize the settings to hit the target.

Step 5Compress the video files

When satisfied with the settings, click the Preview button and inspect the changes if they match your preferences. To confirm the settings, click the Compress button. It is the best video compressor if you want a tool that requires no manual settings for compressing video files.

2. FreeConvert

For an equally effective video shrinking tool, you should consider FreeConvert. Moreover, it comes with cloud storage integration so you can upload videos anytime, anywhere. The platform offers flexibility, covering both lossless and lossy compression methods to suit different quality needs. To use this HandBrake video compression software alternative, read the step-by-step process below:

Step 1Visit the tool's official page with a browser you are comfortable using. Then, click the Choose File button to upload a video.

Step 2This time, choose an output format and adjust the settings by clicking the wrench button. From the Advanced Options window, alter the video codec, compression method, and target size. After that, hit the Apply Settings button.

Step 3Lastly, click Compress Now! to commence the compression process. This procedure works on both lossy and lossless compression methods.

By Jane Pineda on Aug 05, 2025