Why Reducing Video File Size is Crucial for Website Performance Optimisation
The Rise of Full-Section Videos in Web Design
Modern websites increasingly feature full-section videos in their hero sections. This trend is popular because it offers an engaging and dynamic way to showcase a brand’s message in under 10 seconds, quickly capturing visitors’ attention. However, while visually appealing, large video files can significantly slow down a website, negatively impacting both user experience and SEO.
Why Video Optimisation Matters
1. Website Speed and User Experience
The longer a video is, the larger its file size, which means longer loading times. Slow-loading websites frustrate users, leading to higher bounce rates. Studies show that a one-second delay in page load time can reduce conversions by up to 7%.
2. SEO and Google Ranking
Google prioritises fast-loading websites in search rankings. A slow site due to unoptimised video files can lower your position in search engine results, reducing visibility and traffic. Faster websites provide a better user experience, keeping visitors engaged and more likely to convert.
3. Mobile Responsiveness
Mobile users expect quick loading times, and uncompressed videos can drastically slow down their experience. Ensuring optimised video files helps maintain a smooth mobile browsing experience and prevents unnecessary data usage for users on limited mobile plans.
Best Practices for Reducing Video File Size
1. Keep Videos Short and Sweet
For hero section videos, keeping them under 10 seconds is ideal. This ensures they load quickly while still delivering a strong visual impact. Shorter videos are also more engaging and less likely to deter users from exploring your website further.
2. Compress Without Losing Quality
The FreeConvert Video Compressor is a good online tool if ever you need a quick video file compressor and don’t have access to an Adobe subscription or other paid tools. While free online compression tools exist, they often produce blurry results or fail to reduce file size effectively. Instead, using professional software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Media Encoder ensures high-quality videos with minimal file sizes.
3. Optimal Export Bitrate Settings for Web Uploads
Landscape (Desktop) Video Export Settings
Format: H.264
Frame Size: 1920 × 1080 (horizontal)
Frame Rate: 23.976 fps
Aspect Ratio: Square Pixels (1.0)
Bitrate Encoding: VBR, 2 Pass
Target Bitrate: 6 Mbps
Maximum Bitrate: 10 Mbps
Render at Maximum Depth: Enabled
Use Maximum Render Quality: Enabled
Portrait (Mobile) Video Export Settings
Format: H.264
Frame Size: 1080 × 1920 (vertical)
Frame Rate: 23.976 fps
Aspect Ratio: Square Pixels (1.0)
Bitrate Encoding: VBR, 2 Pass
Target Bitrate: 2 Mbps
Maximum Bitrate: 6 Mbps
Render at Maximum Depth: Enabled
Use Maximum Render Quality: Enabled
4. File Size Targets for Web Performance
10MB for 10-second videos - ideal for web performance.
12MB for 11-15 second videos - requires higher bitrates to maintain quality.
For mobile: Aim for 3-4MB for a 10-15 second video (or if you can compress even lower and keep the quality, do so!)
A key note is that these settings depend on the video file itself. If you need to adjust them due to a larger or smaller file size or a requirement for higher quality, feel free to do so. However, keep in mind that a larger file size (more MB) will result in slower website speed and performance. Always strive for a balance between quality and optimisation to ensure a smooth user experience.
5. Use Media Encoder for Batch Processing
After setting up the export settings in Premiere Pro, sending files to Adobe Media Encoder enables batch exporting multiple versions efficiently. This ensures consistency in video quality while keeping file sizes optimised.
Reducing video file sizes is essential for website performance and SEO. By keeping videos short, using professional compression tools, and following optimised export settings, businesses can maintain high-quality visuals without compromising speed. A well-optimised video enhances user experience, improves search rankings, and ensures a seamless browsing experience across all devices. Prioritise video compression to keep your website running smoothly and competitively in search rankings.
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