When we send videos through Discord, we sometimes find that they appear as files rather than playable videos. This can be puzzling and inconvenient. The primary reason for this can be Discord’s inability to recognize the file format. Not all video formats are supported by the platform. Plus, if a video doesn’t conform to the necessary encoding, such as H.264, it may not display correctly.
Discord applies certain limitations on file size and type, especially for users without Nitro, which is a premium subscription service that increases these limits among other features. For non-Nitro users, the maximum file upload size is 8 MB, a threshold easily exceeded by videos. When this limit is surpassed, Discord doesn’t preview the video but rather sends it as a file. Additionally, changing settings to enable video previews is essential; otherwise, videos might not play directly in chat.
- Check your Discord Nitro subscription for higher upload limits.
- Ensure the video is encoded in a supported format like H.264.
- Enable Image & Video Preview settings in Discord.
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Understanding Discord’s File Sharing Capabilities
Discord provides a robust platform for sharing content among users, with specific capabilities and limitations that are essential to understand for smooth video sharing.
File Size Limits and Video Quality
| File Type | Max Size for Free Users |
| Video | 8 MB |
| Image | 8 MB |
| Others | 8 MB |
Discord Nitro Enhancements
- Larger file upload limit (up to 100 MB)
- Improved video quality sharing
- Higher resolution for screen sharing
Technical Considerations for Sending Videos
In our experience, even when using a supported format such as mp4, problems can arise if the video uses a codec not supported by Discord. For instance, videos using h264 are often fine, but an mkv file may contain a mismatched codec such as H265, which Discord won’t natively display.
To keep communication smooth on Discord, we’ve discovered it’s best to convert videos to a supported format and codec. Here’s what we consider when preparing to send videos:
| File Format | Resolution | Codec |
| Ensure it is mp4, webm, or mov. | Opt for standard resolutions. | Use widely supported codecs like h264. |
By adhering to these guidelines, we ensure our videos are not only sent efficiently but are also accessible to recipients on Discord without requiring extra steps, such as file downloads.
Optimizing Video Files for Discord
To share videos effectively on Discord, ensuring they’re in the right format and size is essential for seamless playback. We’ll focus on effective methods to prepare your video files for Discord.
Conversion and Compression Tools
It’s crucial to use proper conversion tools like Handbrake to change video formats. The conversion should maintain Discord’s supported codecs, such as AAC or H264, which helps in keeping the integrity of the video once uploaded. When it comes to compression tools, they reduce the file size while attempting to preserve quality. Opt for a balance between file size and quality to avoid excessively large uploads or poor video quality.
When converting and compressing, consider the resolution. Lower resolutions like 720p may suffice for Discord’s purposes, as opposed to 1080p, which is larger in size. This often reduces the need for additional compression.
| Popular Converter Tools | Use-Case |
| Handbrake | Conversion to compatible formats like mp4 or WebM |
| Adobe Media Encoder | Professional-level compression with resolution options |
| Any Video Converter | Simple interface for quick format changes |
Adjusting Settings for Desired Quality
To ensure your video looks good on Discord, you should adjust the export settings carefully. Fine-tuning the bitrate can make a significant difference in both file size and video clarity. A higher bitrate typically means better quality, but also a larger file size. We recommend choosing a setting that provides an acceptable balance for Discord’s platform.
If you’re using a compression tool, choose settings that prioritize a smaller file size without excessively degrading the image. In the settings, look for options labeled ‘quality’ or ‘compression’ to adjust these parameters.
| Setting | Adjustment for Discord | Expected Outcome |
| Bitrate | Moderate to low | Balanced size and quality |
| Resolution | 720p recommended over 1080p | Reduced file size |
| Compression Level | High compression | Smaller files, acceptable quality |
Troubleshooting Video Sending Issues on Discord
Check Video Format: Ensure the video is in MP4 or WebM format. Discord recognizes these formats well, and they can playback directly in chat.
Codec Compatibility: The video should be encoded with AAC, vp9, or H264 codecs. These are widely supported and facilitate playback within the app.
If your video doesn’t preview and sends as a download, consider the following steps for different devices:
| Desktop (PC/Mac) | Mobile (Android/iPhone/Tablet) |
| Restart the Discord application to refresh its systems. | Ensure the app is updated to the latest version from the app store. |
| Check Discord’s settings to confirm if embedded videos are enabled. | Double-check network settings or switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data. |
When troubleshooting, also verify if the issue is with a specific file or occurs with all videos. If only one video fails to embed, it might be an issue with that file’s encoding or format. However, if all videos are being sent as files, we should consider other factors such as:
- A temporary service disruption with Discord’s media server.
- Network connection issues that might cause Discord to default to file sending to ensure the video is sent.
Timing is also an aspect. Sometimes, just waiting a bit before re-uploading can resolve the issue, as it gives time for any temporary server or service issues to rectify themselves. When we face such issues, we ensure to start by checking the basic settings and file formats before diving deeper to avoid unnecessary complications.