How it fits a video under a size limit
Example: a 45-second clip for Discord's 20 MB limit (20 MiB, 20,971,520 bytes) has 20,971,520 × 8 × 0.94 ≈ 157.7 million bits to spend. 96 kbps audio uses 4.3 million, leaving about 3.4 Mbps for video, which is enough for clean 720p. The same clip at 1 minute 30 gets about 1.66 Mbps, so it drops to 480p to stay sharp rather than blocky.
Encoders don't hit a bitrate exactly, so if the first try comes out over the limit, the tool runs again slightly lower, up to three passes, and tells you whether it fits.
Why it's fast and private
Most online compressors upload your video to a server, make you wait in a queue and cap the file size. This one uses WebCodecs, the video encoder built into your browser, which usually runs on your graphics chip, so a minute of 1080p often takes about as long as watching it, or less. The file never leaves your device. It outputs H.264 MP4, which plays everywhere, including embedded in Discord chats.
Tips: shorter clips look much better at the same size, so trim to the moment that matters. Gameplay with lots of motion needs more bitrate than a webcam talking head; if it looks blocky, pick a lower resolution. Discord's limits: 20 MB free, 50 MB with Nitro Basic, and more with full Nitro or a boosted server. For TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and X limits, see the upload limits cheat sheet.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compress a video for Discord?
Pick "Discord, free account (20 MB)", drop the clip in and press Compress. The tool works out the bitrate and resolution that fit and gives you an MP4 under 20 MB.
What is Discord's file size limit in 2026?
20 MB per file for free accounts since August 2026, up from 10 MB. Nitro Basic allows 50 MB.
Does it upload my video?
No. The video is decoded and re-encoded inside your browser, so it never leaves your device.
Why is the result blurry?
The clip is long for the size limit, so there isn't much data per second. Trim it shorter, remove the audio, or allow a larger file.
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