Search code examples
videoffmpegh.264

What the different between -b:v <target bitrate> and -b <target bitrate> FFmpeg flags?

I need to bound the video bitrate, which flag is better to use? I re-encode h.264 video.

Solution

  • :v after the b is an example of a stream specifier, which directs and limits the streams to which the option is applied. So, -option:a:2 would only apply to the third audio output stream, whereas -option:a would apply to all audio output streams. -option would apply to all streams.

    However, in the case of -b, ffmpeg will catch this syntax and treat it the same as -b:v.

    Also, see https://superuser.com/a/1219824 for guide to how the order of options affects result.