How to Make a Video Smaller to Email

Knowing how to make a video smaller to email it may be necessary for different reasons.

Whether it's for business presentations or creative endeavors, you want to ensure that the content reaches its intended recipient quickly and doesn't cause any issues to view.

This guide explores 4 effective methods of compressing video files for a smoother experience when it comes to sending them via email.

Methods to reduce video file size

When attempting to send a long video through email, one may encounter difficulties such as slow upload speeds and the attachments being rejected due to file size restrictions. Fortunately, there are ways to make your video smaller.

how we test products

Here are 4 ways to minimize the size of your videos:

  • Compress the file. An assortment of video compression techniques can be utilized to significantly minimize the size of your file, streamlining its delivery through email.
  • Convert to a different format. If you have a high-quality video, opting for a more heavily compressed format can result in a substantial reduction in file size.
  • Change resolution. Saving the clip in lower resolution can help decrease its size for faster upload and download on the web.
  • Trim the length. Removing extra parts is also a way to make your video smaller. You can use video editing software to cut out portions that are not essential for conveying the message.

Below we will consider each of the methods and introduce tools and programs that can be used to reduce the video file size.

Compressing to reduce file size

When your file size exceeds email attachment limits, compression becomes your best ally. This method ensures that your video remains compact while retaining enough quality to communicate your message.

Let's see how to compress a video for email with an online video compressor. Video Candy offers free tools for multimedia manipulation that can be used without the need for a new app installation.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Open your web browser and go to the free online video compressor.
  2. Click the "+Add File" button to import the video. You can also drag and drop your clips with your mouse into the designated area.
  3. The video compression will begin automatically.
  4. Once the processing is done, you'll see a "Download" button and the resulting size of the video.
  5. Save the file and attach this smaller video to an email. Send it to your desired recipient.

Benefits of using online service to compress video:

  • User-friendly. A simple interface makes it easy for anyone to use, even if you're not tech-savvy.
  • Saves time. As the process takes place on the web, it's faster than if you had to install new software.
  • Maintains quality. This online video compressor ensures that the quality remains as high as possible after processing.
  • Supports various formats. Various input formats are supported such as MP4, AVI, MOV, MKV, WebM, and more.
  • Free of cost. The service is completely free to use.

Converting to make video smaller

Sometimes, the format of your video can contribute to its hefty file size. Converting your clip to a more email-friendly format can reduce the video size.

This approach optimizes the file structure and codecs used, which makes it easier to share and view the footage across various devices without losing the essence of your content.

Comparison of different formats' sizes

When you need to email a video, it's important to know which format will give you the smallest size while still maintaining quality.

Here's a comparison table of different video formats.

The approximate file size is calculated for a 1-minute video with the 1080p resolution.

Video FormatFile SizeQualityCompression LevelAdvantagesDisadvantages
MP430-50 MBGoodHighEfficient compression, good quality at smaller sizesLimited support for very high resolutions
AVI100-150 MBExcellentLowLossless quality, uncompressed dataLarge file sizes, less efficient compression
MKV80-120 MBGood to ExcellentHighSupports multiple audio and subtitle tracksLarger file sizes compared to MP4
MOV50-80 MBGood to ExcellentHighHigh quality, supports multiple tracksLarger file sizes, less compatibility outside Apple ecosystem
WMV40-60 MBGoodMedium to HighEfficient streaming format, good compressionLower quality compared to modern codecs
FLV20-30 MBGoodMediumSmall file sizes, suitable for web streamingLower quality compared to newer formats

Check out this comparison table and evaluate your needs and limitations of the email service. All together, it will help you pick the best output format for conversion.

Now, let's move to the video conversion process.

For Windows users, there is a great program available - Icecream Video Converter. Let's see how to convert a video to make it smaller with this software.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Download the free video converter on you PC. Run the installation file and launch the app.
  2. Click the "Add file" button to choose the video(s) you wish to make smaller for emailing. You can also drag and drop the clips into the converter.
  3. Choose the desired resulting video format from the list of available ones.
  4. Adjust the settings of the output file according to your preferences, such as quality or resolution. You can also trim the video and add subtitles or a watermark.
  5. By default, converted files are saved to their original location. You can specify an alternative folder in the "Save to" menu.
  6. Once everything is set, hit the "Convert" button to start the process. Wait until the progress bar shows the "Converted" message.
  7. You can now effortlessly add the file as an attachment to your email.
How to reduce video size for email through conversion

Benefits of the Icecream Video Converter:

  • Wide format support. Various video and audio formats can be processed - MP4, AVI, MKV, WMV, MOV, M4V, MP3, WAV, AIFF, and more.
  • High-quality output. The free video converter produces high-quality videos after processing, ensuring that the output clips retain their clarity.
  • Batch processing. The ability to convert in bulk saves users time and effort.
  • Editing features. There are basic video editing capabilities available that allow to customize the video right within the converter. One can trim videos, add watermark (text or image) and subtitles.

Editing to decrease the size

The resolution of a video directly impacts its size. Lowering the resolution, especially for videos shot in high definition, can make it significantly smaller while maintaining adequate clarity for email sharing.

Additionally, consider trimming your video's segments that aren't crucial to the subject matter. Cutting out these unnecessary sections not only reduces the file size but also enhances viewer engagement by focusing on the core content.

To make such changes to your footage, you will need reliable video editing software. Below, we will show how to make your video smaller by customizing it with Icecream Video Editor.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Download the free video editor on your computer. Run the installation and launch the program.
  2. Click the "Add files" button to import your video into the program. Drag and drop the clip from the "Media Library" onto the timeline.
  3. To make your video shorter, use the "Trim" tool. You can also consider cropping the video if there's any extra space around the main subject that can be removed. (see the first picture below the instructions)
  4. If no edits need to be made apart from changing the resolution, then proceed to the "Export video" option. There, you can set lover quality, resolution, and FPS for your output video. (see the second picture below the instructions)
  5. Save the file to your computer and upload it to your email for sending.

Benefits of the free video editor:

  • Support for various formats. The video editor is compatible with a wide range of video and audio formats - MP4, MOV, AVI, WebM, etc.
  • Export options. There are customizable export options that help to ensure that the final footage meets the specific needs of the user.
  • Multiple editing tools. A variety of video editing tools allows to create polished and professional-looking projects.
  • Built-in effects. Includes a selection of filters, transitions, titles, and captions, enabling the creation of informative and engaging content.

Reasons to send a video via email

Why would someone bother to send a video as an email attachment? Here are some common reasons:

  • Convenient. Email is one of the most widely utilized forms of communication. By sending a video directly to an individual's email, you can ensure that they will see it or easily find it in the inbox folder later.
  • Cost-effective. There are no additional costs involved in sending a video via electronic mail, as opposed to other methods like using a file-sharing service.
  • Easy to access and share. It only takes a few clicks to open an email and watch a video, often without even needing to download it to their computers.

Moreover, businesses looking to connect with their customers on a more personal level can incorporate videos into their marketing email. Clips can be used as tutorials, announcements, promotions, or customer testimonials, making them a versatile tool for communication.

Pros of having a video in a marketing email:

  • Multimedia content captures attention more effectively than text, leading to higher engagement rates from recipients.
  • Videos can explain complex information more clearly and concisely, making it easier for viewers to understand your message.
  • Including a personalized clip can foster a stronger connection with your audience, making the communication feel more direct and human.
  • Videos are excellent for showcasing products, services, or processes, providing a clear visual and auditory representation that enhances understanding.
  • Information presented in a visual format is more likely to be remembered by viewers, increasing the impact and effectiveness of your marketing message.

FAQ

Which file format is most suitable for emailing videos?
The most suitable video file format for emailing videos is MP4. This format provides a good balance between file size and quality due to its efficient compression capabilities. MP4 is widely supported across various devices and platforms, ensuring compatibility for recipients. Additionally, it maintains decent video quality at reduced file sizes, making it ideal for email attachments.
Will compressing a video affect its playback on different devices?
Compressing a video should not affect its playback on different devices as long as it is saved in a supported format. Modern video processing tools maintain compatibility and quality across various platforms. However, extremely high compression may lead to a slight decrease in quality, potentially impacting playback on larger screens. Generally, using standard settings ensures smooth playback on most devices.

Conclusion

Ultimately, reducing the size of a video for email may seem like a challenging task at first. However, several solutions are available. Your options to reduce the video size are not limited to just compressing the file. You can also convert it to a more efficient format or edit it by trimming unnecessary parts or lowering the resolution.

By applying these techniques, you can ensure your video remains clear and engaging while fitting within email attachment limits. These steps make sharing your videos via email more manageable and ensure your content reaches its audience efficiently.

Tamal Das

Expert Tech Writer

Tamal is a tech writer at Icecream Apps. After completing his MS in Science, he joined reputed IT consultancy companies to acquire hands-on knowledge of IT technologies. Now, he’s a professional content writer of B2B and B2C software products and also a meticulous software reviewer whose reviews on applications and web apps have been published in reputed technology websites. He has already been published on such reputable sites like MakeUseOf, Geekflare, AddictiveTips. When he’s not writing, he researches the internet and technology journals to stay updated about the latest happenings in the SaaS industry.
6 min read
Related articles:
Finding the best free online video converter is essential for anyone looking to change between video formats. Whether you need to convert a ...
760
In today’s digital age, capturing screen content has become increasingly popular. Timed video recording, which allows you to schedule ...
Are you looking for the best free PDF reader for school, work, or personal use? Then, you’ve come to the right place!
986