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compress-video

Compress video files with FFmpeg using quality or target size constraints.

270|16|Updated Feb 3, 2026
Search Tags:#optimization#video#compression#encoding#ffmpeg#file size
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/gupsammy/Claudest --skill compress-video-gupsammy
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: compress-video
Source: https://github.com/gupsammy/Claudest/tree/main/plugins/claude-content/skills/compress-video
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/gupsammy/Claudest --skill compress-video-gupsammy

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This skill addresses the need to reduce video file sizes for easier sharing, storage, or web optimization, without significantly compromising visual quality.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Flexible Compression: Supports both quality-based (CRF) and size-based (2-pass) encoding.
  • Codec Selection: Intelligently chooses between H.264 and H.265 based on desired compression and compatibility.
  • Progressive Playback: Optimizes videos for web streaming using -movflags +faststart.
  • Use Case: Compress a large video file recorded on a phone to under 50MB for uploading to a social media platform or sending via email.

Quick Start

Use the compress-video skill to reduce the file size of the video located at /path/to/my/video.mp4 to under 50MB.

Frequently Asked Questions about compress-video

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I compress a video file to a specific target size for email?▼

Compressing a video file to a target size is achieved using size-based 2-pass encoding with FFmpeg. This allows you to specify a maximum file size, such as under 50MB, ensuring the output meets strict sharing constraints.

What is the difference between CRF and 2-pass encoding for video compression?▼

Video compression can use either quality-based CRF encoding or size-based 2-pass encoding. CRF targets a consistent visual quality, while 2-pass calculates the required bitrate to hit an exact target file size.

Do I need ffmpeg and ffprobe installed to compress videos?▼

Yes, you need both ffmpeg and ffprobe command-line tools installed to compress videos. FFmpeg handles the video encoding, while ffprobe is required for analyzing the input video streams prior to encoding.

How do I optimize a compressed video for web playback?▼

To optimize a compressed video for web playback, the encoding process uses the `-movflags +faststart` setting. This moves the video's metadata to the front of the file, allowing browsers to begin playback before the download completes.

Should I use H.264 or H.265 codec for reducing video file size?▼

Choosing between H.264 and H.265 for reducing video file size depends on your compatibility needs. H.265 offers better compression ratios, while H.264 provides broader compatibility with older devices and platforms.

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