Large video files can take forever to download, eat up your data plan, or fail to upload altogether. This is a common problem, especially when you want to quickly share a movie clip, a personal video, or a funny moment with friends.
This is where XVID comes in. XVID is an open-source MPEG-4 Part 2 video codec, not a file format. It compresses videos (often in .avi files) to reduce size with minimal quality loss. As a result, you can download videos more quickly, store them on your phone, and share them online without worrying about using up all of your mobile data.
Understanding XVID is helpful if you handle video files regularly. Since not all players support it directly, knowing how to open or convert XVID files can make it easier to watch and manage your videos. So stay tuned.
What is an XVID file?
Files often called XVID files are actually videos encoded with the XVID codec, stored in an AVI container, and compressed to reduce size with minimal quality loss. As a result, a large video file gets shrunk into a smaller video file, making it easier to save and share. For example, on our phone, we struggle for space to store a movie due to its large size.
So we start looking for ways to reduce its size, and this can be done using the XVID codec. After that, it becomes a file with less storage space while still keeping decent picture quality. It is important to understand that XVID is not a video format like AVI or MP4. It is a software codec that implements MPEG-4 Part 2 compression to encode and reduce video file size.
The video file is contained within a container file. XVID used to be very popular for downloading and sharing movies, shows, and videos because it created smaller files that worked well on many devices. Even though newer formats like MP4 have now taken over, you may still come across old video files that use XVID.
History of XVID Files
The story of XVID begins with DivX, a codec created in the late 1990s. However, DivX gave users limited access to its source code. In response, a group of developers created Xvid in 2001 as an open-source alternative.
Unlike DivX, Xvid adhered strictly to the MPEG-4 Part 2 standard, allowing anyone to use, modify, and distribute the codec freely. It became popular because it offered free, high-quality video compression at a time when storage and internet speeds were more limited.
Common Use Cases of XVID
- Sharing videos online: XVID files are comparatively smaller, therefore making it easier to upload and download videos.
- Storing movies and TV shows: people use XVID to save collections of films and shows without overloading their hard drives.
- Compatibility with media players and editing software: media players like VLC and Windows Media Player (with the right codec) can open XVID files, and many video editors also support it.
How do XVID files work?
XVID is a codec that compresses video files. It is similar to packing a suitcase: you fold your clothes neatly to conserve space rather than putting them in randomly. Similar to this, the XVID codec reduces the size of the video file to save storage space or mobile data usage while maintaining a sharp enough image for comfortable viewing.
XVID is based on a video standard called MPEG-4 Part 2, which is a set of rules for compressing video efficiently. This standard aids the codec in determining which video segments can be cut without significantly compromising the overall quality. This explains why, despite having a much smaller file size, an XVID-compressed movie can look nearly as good as the original.
The primary advantage is its ability to balance file size and video quality. Videos don't get too big to download or upload, and they look clear on your screen. As a result, XVID format can be ideal for watching videos on devices with limited storage, storing movies, and sharing clips online.
How Is XVID Different from MP4, AVI, or DivX?
How to create and edit an XVID file
Working with videos is about finding the balance between quality and file size. That's exactly what the XVID codec is for. XVID has been used to reduce the size of movies, TV series, and personal recordings because it does not significantly affect quality.
Formats like MP4 and others are now widely used. However, XVID is still useful, particularly if you need fast compression for offline storage or want to work with older media players.
With the right tools, creating and editing an XVID file is simple. Software like VirtualDub, Avidemux, or HandBrake can help convert large videos into XVID for easy sharing. They also help trim an existing Xvid clip for your project. Now, we will find out the fundamentals of creating XVID files from scratch and performing basic edits in this section.
Creating (Encoding) XVID files
- Install VirtualDub (or VirtualDubMod) and the XVID codec (both are free and open-source)
- Open your source video (e.g, DV AVI, uncompressed footage) in VirtualDub (File → Open)
- Choose Video → Compression, select XVID MPEG-4 Codec, and configure settings such as bitrate or choose a two-pass encoding for better quality/file-size balance.
- For two-pass encoding, perform the first pass (jobs list), then configure XVID again for the second pass and run both jobs to create the final file.
- Select Audio compression, then go to File → Save as AVI to export your compressed XVID video.
Editing existing XVID files
- Basic edits: Use free editors like Avidemux or VirtualDub to cut, trim, or merge XVID videos.
- Advanced edits: For adding effects, subtitles, or transitions, use Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. For this, you may need to install XVID codecs first.
- Audio tweaks: Tools like Audacity can help you sync or adjust audio tracks in an XVID video.
How to convert an XVID file
An XVID file can be converted into other formats that are more commonly used, such as MP4, AVI, or MKV. This ensures smooth playback on modern devices, streaming services, and editing software. Fortunately, with the correct software, the procedure of conversion is easy.
Tools you can use
- HandBrake – is a free, open-source video converter that supports MP4 and MKV.
- Any Video Converter (AVC) – is a Beginner-friendly tool with multiple options.
- Online converters – use these web-based tools such as CloudConvert or Zamzar.
The following are the steps for conversion
1. Open and install a converter - use an online converter in your browser or download AVC.
2. Upload your XVID file - Click on add file or drag and drop the video into the software.
3. Choose output format - choose MKV for more sophisticated features like subtitles and multiple audio tracks, AVI if you wish to maintain original features, or MP4 for universal compatibility.
4. Adjust settings - set resolution and quality level. For faster results, keep the default settings.
5. Start conversion - click on convert or the start button.
6. Save and test - once the new file is ready, save it to your chosen folder and play it to ensure smooth output.
Advantages and disadvantages of XVID File
Advantages
- Smaller file size: Videos are compressed effectively without experiencing a significant loss in quality.
- Broad compatibility: Compatible with popular media players, DVD players, and a variety of older devices.
- Easy to share and store: Files with smaller sizes are easier to store and transfer more quickly.
Disadvantages
- Limited support: XVID files are not natively supported by all modern devices and media players.
- Codec requirement: To play on specific platforms, you might need extra codecs or conversion.
- Not common today: Newer and more effective formats like H.264/MP4 have overtaken it.
Conclusion
The XVID video format may seem a bit outdated, but it is still very useful for smaller videos that don't take up a lot of storage space. What is the best part? You don't have to be a technology expert to play, edit, or even convert XVID files into MP4 or MKV formats. All you need is the right tool, like HandBrake or VLC.
If you ever come across an XVID film or clip lying around, handling it is simple. You can convert it to a more recent format for seamless playback or watch it on nearly any device with a few clicks. Simple, right?
FAQs
A video file compressed with the Xvid codec, which adheres to the MPEG-4 Part 2 standard, is called an XVID file. It makes sharing and storing videos easier by reducing their size without affecting much quality.
By eliminating unnecessary information, the Xvid codec reduces video size while maintaining visual quality. It is effective for both playback and storage because it employs sophisticated algorithms to reduce large video files without causing any discernible loss.
Movies, TV series, and personal recordings are frequently stored in XVID format. Because it could fit high-quality videos onto CDs and DVDs, it gained popularity in the early 2000s.
Yes, but not always in a direct manner. While some tablets and smartphones have built-in support for XVID, others need apps like MX Player or VLC to play the files properly.
Lossy compression, used by XVID, removes unnecessary data from video files. This keeps the video visually acceptable for the majority of viewers while resulting in smaller file sizes.
These days, XVID is less prevalent. Although it was very popular in the early 2000s, newer formats like AV1, H.264, and H.265 have largely replaced it because they offer higher quality and better compression for modern streaming devices. XVID files might still be found in outdated collections or downloaded media.
