← ClipKit

iPhone video guide

How to compress a video on iPhone

If a video is too large to send, export a smaller copy and check its actual size before sharing. A lower resolution may be enough. If you have a specific file-size limit, choose that limit before export and watch the result to decide whether the quality works for you.

First, check the limit and keep the original

Find the maximum file size accepted by the person or service receiving your video. For example, personal Gmail accounts allow 25 MB of total attachments; work or school limits can differ. Above the limit, Gmail uses a Drive link. Leave your original in Photos or Files until you have checked the new copy. Making a video smaller can soften detail, especially when the target is very small for a long clip.

For a smaller copy, try a lower-resolution export

If you do not need an exact MB target, open iMovie, start a Movie project with your video, then choose Share → Save or Share Video → Options and select a lower resolution. Export the copy and check its size in Photos or Files. Apple's iMovie compression guide has the full steps; menu choices can vary by iPhone or iMovie version. A lower resolution can reduce quality and does not promise a particular file size.

For a 10 MB limit, choose a target size in ClipKit

  1. Import one local video from Photos or Files and choose MP4 or MOV output.
  2. Open Target size and select 10 MB. ClipKit also offers 25 MB, 50 MB, and a custom limit from 1 to 500 MB.
  3. Export the video. On the Result screen, compare the measured Original and Result sizes and play the exported copy before sharing or saving it.

One recorded example on the ClipKit page went from 20.5 MB to 8.4 MB under a 10 MB target. Your result will depend on the source video. If the full clip cannot fit, ClipKit asks you to choose a larger limit or trim the video; it does not silently cut the clip to meet the target.

ClipKit Target size screen showing Automatic, 10 MB, 25 MB, 50 MB, and a custom size field
Choose a limit for one local video.
ClipKit Result screen comparing a 20.5 MB original with an 8.4 MB MP4 export
Check the measured size and play both copies.

If the result is still too large

Try a larger limit if the recipient accepts it, or trim footage you do not need and export again. Lowering resolution or frame rate can also reduce size, but review the picture and motion afterward. Keep the original until you are satisfied with the file you send.

Only need the sound? Convert video to MP3 →