What it does
x264 encodes video streams in H.264/AVC. The VideoLAN project supplies source, application builds, and developer material under GNU GPL licensing.
x264 supplies application and library routes for H.264/AVC video encoding. Rate control includes constant quantizer, constant quality, single- or multipass average bitrate and optional video-buffer constraints. Multiple reference frames, scene-cut detection and multi-CPU encoding provide further engine controls. Official builds are listed for Windows, Linux and macOS. A surrounding application can supply audio, file queues and container packaging. GPL use and a separate commercial licence are available distribution routes.
Strengths
- Provides a focused H.264 encoding implementation with application and library routes.
Best for
- Advanced H.264 encoding workflows
Sources
- x264, the best H.264/AVC encoder - VideoLAN (Oct 26, 2026)