FLV vs WMV
Which video format should you choose?
FLV wins on small file sizes. WMV wins on strong compression for windows. For most general use, pick whichever is more compatible with your existing tools — file size and quality differences are usually small at the same encoding settings.
When to use FLV
Choose FLV when you need converting legacy flash content or recovering old web archives. Its strengths: small file sizes, and once-universal web compatibility.
Pros
- + Small file sizes
- + Once-universal web compatibility
Cons
- − Adobe Flash is deprecated
- − No modern browser support
- − Should be converted to MP4 or WebM
When to use WMV
Choose WMV when you need windows media player playback or windows-based video sharing. Its strengths: strong compression for windows, and native on windows platforms.
Pros
- + Strong compression for Windows
- + Native on Windows platforms
- + Built-in DRM support
Cons
- − Poor support on macOS, iOS, Linux
- − Proprietary format
- − Falling out of favor for modern web
Side-by-side
| Aspect | FLV | WMV |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Flash Video | Windows Media Video |
| Extension | .flv | .wmv |
| MIME type | video/x-flv | video/x-ms-wmv |
| Compression | Compressed | Lossy |
| File size | Small▲ | Medium |
| Compatibility | Limited / legacy | Limited / legacy |
| Open source | No / partial | No / partial |
| Best for | Converting legacy Flash content | Windows Media Player playback |
▲ = generally favored on that aspect. Real-world results depend on encoder settings.
Convert between FLV and WMV
FLV vs WMV — Frequently Asked Questions
Is FLV better than WMV?
Is FLV better than WMV?
Neither is universally better — they serve different needs. FLV is stronger for converting legacy flash content, while WMV is stronger for windows media player playback. Pick based on what you're trying to do.
Can I convert FLV to WMV?
Can I convert FLV to WMV?
Yes — Zen Convert handles FLV to WMV conversion for free, directly in your browser. It also handles the reverse (WMV to FLV). No signup, no watermark.
Will I lose quality converting between FLV and WMV?
Will I lose quality converting between FLV and WMV?
Both FLV and WMV use lossy compression. Each conversion adds a small additional loss because the codec re-encodes the audio/video. For best quality, convert once and keep the result.
Which file is bigger : FLV or WMV?
Which file is bigger : FLV or WMV?
FLV files are usually smaller than WMV files at the same quality. The difference depends on encoder settings, but the trend is consistent across most content.
Which one is better supported on phones?
Which one is better supported on phones?
Both FLV and WMV have comparable mobile support — modern phones handle them well.