How to compress a video on iPhone and check the quality
ADHZ · Published and updated
To reduce an existing iPhone video's size, export a smaller copy with iMovie or use a video compressor. Changing camera settings only affects future recordings. Check the original file size first, then review the compressed copy's picture and audio before deciding what to keep.
Start with iMovie for a free, single-video export
Apple's free iMovie app can export a video at a lower resolution. Fine details may become less clear. Menus and available resolutions vary with your iOS and iMovie version.
- Open the video in Photos and tap its information button to check the size.
- Create a movie project in iMovie and add the video.
- Choose Done, Share, Save or Share Video, then Options and a lower resolution.
- Save a copy and check its size and playback.
Use a compressor when you have several videos
nyanbyte compresses videos on your iPhone. Choose High quality, Balanced, or Smaller file and check the estimated size before starting. Process multiple videos in sequence and compare each original with its compressed copy before saving.
Start with one video to find a setting you like. Your first video is free to compress and save, with no length or file-size limit. Check the app's purchase screen for continued use. Your video files are not uploaded to nyanbyte servers for compression.
Can you compress without losing quality?
Reducing a file can change fine detail. Keeping the same resolution does not guarantee identical quality. Compare small text, dark scenes, and fast motion at the same point in both copies.
Savings depend on the source and chosen settings. A video that is already efficiently compressed may have little room for further reduction. The estimate and final file size can differ, so decide using the actual result.
Before sending a video by message or email
Check the receiving service's current attachment limit and your finished file's size. An estimate does not guarantee a specific MB target. If the copy is still too large, consider a different quality setting or keeping only the part you need.
Creating a smaller copy for sharing does not require deleting the original. Keep your archival copy separately from your sending copy. If your goal is reclaiming storage, use the related guide below to review originals and iCloud first.