MOV file format
QuickTime File Format
MOV is Apple's QuickTime format, used by iPhones and Mac editing apps. It often contains the same H.264 or HEVC video as MP4, but many Windows and Android apps handle it poorly.
| Property | MOV |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .mov, .qt |
| MIME type | video/quicktime |
| Introduced | 1991 by Apple |
| Typical video codecs | H.264, HEVC, ProRes |
| Typical audio codecs | AAC, PCM |
| Plays in web browsers | Partly (Safari; others only if H.264) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices, editors; limited on Windows and Android |
| Best for | iPhone videos, professional editing (ProRes) |
What is a MOV file?
MOV is the QuickTime File Format that Apple introduced in 1991. MP4 was later standardised on the same structure, so the two are close relatives. iPhones record MOV files (usually H.264 or HEVC video with AAC audio), and professional cameras and editors use MOV for high-quality ProRes footage.
Strengths and weaknesses
MOV supports edit lists, multiple tracks and professional codecs, which is why video editors like it. The downside is compatibility: older Windows apps, many Android phones, some websites and smart TVs won't open MOV, and iPhone HEVC MOVs need a HEVC decoder.
When should you use MOV?
Keep MOV for editing in Final Cut Pro, iMovie or DaVinci Resolve. Convert to MP4 to share, upload or play on non-Apple devices — usually without re-encoding, because the streams inside are often already MP4-compatible.