Comparing Video Codecs AV1 and VVC
And, Action!
© Lead Image © Fernando Gregory, 123RF.com
Video codecs help reduce bandwidth and save storage space. We compare AVI and VVC to help you decide which one is right for you.
Technically speaking, a video codec is nothing more than an algorithm. Its main task is to reduce huge volumes of data in a video recording so the data can be stored, copied, streamed, and played back efficiently. A video codec saves storage space on your mass media and reduces the bandwidth required for streaming.
The freely-licensed AOMedia Video 1 (AV1) [1] and the patented (commercial) Versatile Video Coding (VVC, also known as H.266) [2] are two modern video codecs that lead the field in terms in efficiency and speed. Both promise up to 50 percent better compression than their predecessors. These codecs not only differ in terms of licensing rights, but also in terms of technology and strategic orientation. This article highlights the most important differences between AV1 and VVC with a view to the licensing models, performance, and suitability for specific applications, using benchmarks to clarify who comes out on top.
AV1 and VVC are both primarily lossy compression methods: They reduce a video's file size by permanently masking or removing certain data (usually data that is of little importance to human perception). Because of this, they can maintain a very high level of quality from the user's point of view, with compression artifacts usually remaining inconspicuous. Both codecs optionally support a lossless mode in which there is no loss of quality, although this is rarely used in standard operation.
[...]
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.
News
-
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Competes with the Best
Framework has released what might be considered the MacBook of Linux devices.
-
The Latest CachyOS Features Supercharged Kernel
The latest release of CachyOS brings with it an enhanced version of the latest Linux kernel.
-
Kernel 7.0 Is a Bit More Rusty
Linux kernel 7.0 has been released for general availability, with Rust finally getting its due.
-
France Says "Au Revoir" to Microsoft
In a move that should surprise no one, France announced plans to reduce its reliance on US technology, and Microsoft Windows is the first to get the boot.
-
CIQ Releases Compatibility Catalog for Rocky Linux
The company behind Rocky Linux is making an open catalog available to developers, hobbyists, and other contributors, so they can verify and publish compatibility with the CIQ lineup.
-
KDE Gets Some Resuscitation
KDE is bringing back two themes that vanished a few years ago, putting a bit more air under its wings.
-
Ubuntu 26.04 Beta Arrives with Some Surprises
Ubuntu 26.04 is almost here, but the beta version has been released, and it might surprise some people.
-
Ubuntu MATE Dev Leaving After 12 years
Martin Wimpress, the maintainer of Ubuntu MATE, is now searching for his successor. Are you the next in line?
-
Kali Linux Waxes Nostalgic with BackTrack Mode
For those who've used Kali Linux since its inception, the changes with the new release are sure to put a smile on your face.
-
Gnome 50 Smooths Out NVIDIA GPU Issues
Gamers rejoice, your favorite pastime just got better with Gnome 50 and NVIDIA GPUs.