How to Use FFmpeg to Convert H.265

FFmpeg has been a popular tool for video processing and conversion for quite some time now, and its versatility has made it a favorite among content creators and videographers. One of the latest features added to FFmpeg is support for encoding HEVC/H.265, also known as h.265. In this article, we will explore how you can use FFmpeg to convert H.265 files.

Encoding with libx265

With the latest Zeranoe build, you can now encode HEVC using libx265 directly within FFmpeg. The command to do so is as follows:

ffmpeg -i INPUT -c:v libx265 -an -x265-params crf=25 OUT.mov

Alternatively, you can also use the following command to include audio encoding while maintaining the same video quality:

ffmpeg -i INPUT -c:v libx265 -c:a copy -x265-params crf=25 OUT.mov

Muxing Support

In addition to encoding support, FFmpeg also offers improved Matroska muxing for HEVC files. This means you can now easily create a single file that contains both audio and video in the HEVC format.

Choosing the Right Encoder

When it comes to choosing an encoder for HEVC/H.265, there are several options available. However, not all of them are created equal. The two recommended encoders are MulticoreWare's libx265 and DivX. This is because they have been actively developed and are endorsed by VideoLAN, the developer of x264.

The Two x265 Projects

One thing to note is that there are actually two separate projects called 'x265'. One is a project started by a Chinese college student, but it has largely fallen dormant. The other is a commercial project by MulticoreWare, which is actively maintained and endorsed by VideoLAN.

In conclusion, FFmpeg offers a powerful way to encode HEVC/H.265 files using the libx265 encoder. With its improved muxing support and versatility, FFmpeg has become an essential tool for content creators looking to work with HEVC files. Whether you're encoding video directly or manually muxing files together, FFmpeg has got you covered.

How to use ffmpeg to convert h.265