MKV (file format)

MKV files are a versatile and high-quality choice for storing multimedia content. They offer several advantages over other formats, including the ability to store multiple types of data in a single file, support for virtually any audio and video format and high quality with efficient compression.

What is an MKV file?

The term MKV stands for Matroska Video. Named after the Russian word for nesting dolls, Matroska, MKV is a multimedia container format. It’s an open standard free container format, a file format that can hold an unlimited number of video, audio, picture or subtitle tracks in one file.

Being a flexible and open standard format, MKV files aren’t restricted by patents, making them a popular choice for storing multimedia content. They are designed to be future-proof, meaning they are resistant to becoming obsolete, ensuring that files saved in this format will continue to be accessible as technology evolves.

Benefits of MKV files

One of the most significant benefits of MKV files is the ability to store multiple types of data — video, audio, subtitles, etc. — in a single file.

Another advantage is the support for virtually any audio and video format. This makes MKV a versatile choice for multimedia storage, as users don’t need to worry about compatibility issues.

MKV files are also easy to edit, with many free tools available for modifying and converting these files. These tools allow users to add or remove subtitles, change the audio track, or convert the file to another format.

Another benefit of MKV files is their high quality. They can store high-definition video (including 720p, 1080p, and 4K) without losing any quality during compression. This is a significant advantage for users who want to store or share high-quality video content.

Despite their high quality, MKV files can be compressed to a smaller size than many other video formats. This makes them a good choice for storing and sharing large video files, as they can be made smaller without a noticeable loss in quality.

How to use MKV files

Using MKV files is straightforward, thanks to the wide range of software that supports this format. Most media players, including VLC Media Player and Media Player Classic, can play MKV files without any additional codecs. This makes it easy for users to view content stored in this format.

However, if you encounter problems, you may need to install a codec pack, such as the K-Lite Codec Pack. This pack includes a wide range of codecs for various multimedia formats, including MKV. If you want to play an MKV file on a device that does not support this format, you will need to convert the file to a supported format.

How to convert MKV files

If you want to convert MKV files to a more common format, there are online video conversion tools. However, many cost money, require an account, or ask for your personal information. 

Restream’s online video converter is a free, safe solution that quickly converts your MKV files into MP4 or WebM format. Simply upload your MKV file, select either MP4 or WebM for the output format, and download your converted file after the process is finished.