What is .mkv?
.mkv (Matroska Video) is a flexible, open-standard multimedia container format. It can store high-quality video, multiple audio tracks, soft subtitles, chapters, and attachments in a single file, making it a favorite for movies, series, and archival copies.
This quick guide explains when to use .mkv files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .mkv files
- You want to keep multiple audio tracks (languages, commentaries) in one file.
- You need advanced subtitle support (soft subs, styled subtitles, multiple languages).
- You are archiving high-quality video with minimal compromise.
- You are targeting modern desktop players rather than maximum legacy compatibility.
How to open .mkv files
MKV files play best in modern media players like VLC, MPV, Kodi, and MPC-HC. Some smart TVs and streaming boxes support MKV natively, but compatibility varies. Web browsers generally do not play MKV directly, so for web streaming it is often better to convert to MP4. You can upload .mkv files to FileXhost to host and share them, but transcoding to a browser-friendly format may be required for inline playback.
Algorithm details
Matroska is built on EBML (Extensible Binary Meta Language), a binary cousin of XML. It organizes data into elements that can describe video, audio, subtitles, chapters, and metadata. MKV is codec-agnostic: it can contain H.264, H.265, AV1, VP9, and many audio codecs (AAC, AC3, DTS, FLAC), along with advanced subtitle formats like SRT, SSA/ASS, and PGS.
Browser & platform support
- Desktop: Limited native support in browsers; most will prompt a download rather than play MKV directly. Playback is better through dedicated players.
- Mobile: Many Android players (VLC, MX Player) support MKV; iOS support depends on the app used.
- OS: Excellent support on Windows, macOS, and Linux via VLC, MPV, and similar players.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | More flexible than MP4; supports many more codecs, subtitles, and advanced features. |
| Compatibility | Less universally compatible with web and older devices than MP4. |
| Use Case | Ideal for high-quality local playback and archives; not ideal as a raw web delivery format. |
| Subtitles | Outstanding subtitle support, including multiple soft subtitle tracks with styling. |
How to create mkv files
- Ripping Tools: MakeMKV, HandBrake (output to MKV).
- Encoding: FFmpeg, Shutter Encoder, x264/x265 frontends.
- Editing Tools: Some NLEs export to MKV via intermediate steps or external tools.
How to convert mkv files
- FileXhost: Upload MKV for hosting; for best web playback, convert to MP4 locally first.
- Desktop: HandBrake, Shutter Encoder, VLC (MKV to MP4, WebM, etc.).
- CLI: FFmpeg (ffmpeg -i input.mkv output.mp4).
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Excellent support for multiple audio and subtitle tracks
- Highly flexible and future-proof open format
- Great for high-quality video archiving and local libraries
- Works well with modern players like VLC and MPV
Disadvantages
- Inconsistent support across browsers and older devices
- Not ideal for HTML5 video without transcoding
- Some TVs and consoles may refuse or partially support MKV
Tools & software
Players
VLC, MPV, Kodi, MPC-HC, Plex, Jellyfin
Encoders
HandBrake, FFmpeg, Shutter Encoder, x264/x265 GUIs
Editors/Utilities
MKVToolNix, MakeMKV
Frequently asked questions
Is MKV better than MP4?
MKV is more flexible and better for advanced use cases like multiple audio and subtitle tracks or high-quality archives. MP4 is more compatible with browsers, devices, and streaming platforms. For the web, MP4 is usually better; for local playback and archiving, MKV often wins.
Why won't my MKV file play on my TV?
Even if your TV supports MKV, it may not support the specific video or audio codec inside (for example, it might not support HEVC, DTS, or certain subtitle formats). Converting the file to MP4/H.264/AAC or using an external player like a streaming box usually solves this.
Can I convert MKV to MP4 without losing quality?
If the codecs inside are already compatible with MP4 (for example, H.264 video and AAC audio), you can re-mux (copy streams into an MP4 container) with tools like FFmpeg or MKVToolNix without re-encoding. Otherwise, re-encoding is required, which introduces some quality loss.
Does MKV support 4K and HDR?
Yes. MKV works very well for 4K, HDR, and modern codecs like HEVC and AV1, making it a popular choice for high-end home media libraries.
Technical specs
- File type
- Video
- Extension
- .mkv
- MIME type
- video/x-matroska, video/mkv
- Compression
- Lossy
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Up to 25 MB per file on the free plan and up to 1 GB on Pro FileXhost accounts.
Share .mkv files instantly
Upload your .mkv file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .mkv file