How to compress large video files without losing quality for free

How to in KAPWING

1. Define quality and size goals: Clarify acceptable visual quality and target file size or bitrate. Document goals and prepare a short test clip for evaluation. Expected result: documented targets; verification: goals are clear.
2. Collect source video details: Record original resolution, duration, frame rate, codec, and audio bitrate. Expected result: source spec sheet; verification: attributes captured.
3. Decide output specs: Choose whether to keep resolution or downscale; select MP4 as container; choose H.264 or H.265; set audio bitrate. Expected result: output specs documented; verification: specs align with goals.
4. Prepare a free encoder workflow (tool-neutral): Identify a free encoding method you can run locally or online; ensure support for common formats. Expected result: approach documented; verification: encoding can be initiated.
5. Configure encoding parameters: Set video codec, target bitrate or CRF, and audio bitrate; consider two-pass encoding if available. Expected result: preset saved; verification: preset can be applied.
6. Run a test encode on a short clip: Encode a 15–30 second clip with final settings; evaluate for artifacts and fidelity. Expected result: test clip produced; verification: quality and size checked.
7. Evaluate test results and adjust: If quality or size isn’t satisfactory, adjust settings and re-test. Expected result: acceptable balance achieved. Verification: test meets criteria.
8. Perform full encode: Encode the full video with final settings; ensure no errors and the file is created. Expected result: final video ready. Verification: file exists and plays.
9. Validate playback and create reusable preset: Test playback across devices/browsers; save encoding settings as a reusable preset for future videos. Expected result: preset available; playback confirmed. Verification: reuse-ready workflow.