What video format does google slides support​？

Google Slides supports a range of video formats for embedding, though it has specific preferences regarding compatibility. However, instead of focusing on the entire scope of supported formats, it’s useful to focus on the formats that ensure the smoothest performance across devices and browsers. For a comprehensive exploration, I’ll break down the specifics of Google Slides’ video format compatibility, including how to upload, manage, and troubleshoot video files, along with offering insight into the best practices for using videos in your presentations.

Video Formats in Google Slides

Google Slides is a versatile tool for creating presentations, allowing users to embed multimedia elements like text, images, and videos. With the increasing demand for interactive and engaging content, incorporating videos in presentations has become a standard practice for educators, businesses, and content creators. Videos are a powerful way to communicate complex ideas, evoke emotions, or break down dense information into digestible segments.

However, while Google Slides supports video embedding, the platform’s video compatibility is not as extensive as some other tools or applications. Google Slides only supports certain video formats that can be either directly uploaded to the platform or linked from external sources like YouTube or Google Drive. Understanding which formats work best with Google Slides is critical for ensuring that your presentation runs smoothly, without issues related to video playback, file size, or format compatibility.

Supported Video Formats in Google Slides

YouTube Videos

YouTube remains the most straightforward way to integrate videos into Google Slides. When embedding YouTube videos, all you need is the URL link of the video, which you can directly insert into your slide.

This method does not require uploading video files to Google Drive, reducing file size and ensuring that the video can play without compatibility issues.

Supported Formats: YouTube videos themselves are supported in all standard video formats that YouTube accepts (such as MP4. AVI, MOV, etc.).

Google Drive Videos

Google Slides allows you to embed videos that are stored on your Google Drive. This method provides more flexibility in terms of file types since Google Drive supports various formats, including MP4. MOV, and AVI.

Once the video is uploaded to Google Drive, you can embed it directly into your Google Slides presentation by selecting the “Insert” menu and choosing “Video” to add your Google Drive video.

Supported Formats: MP4. MOV, AVI, FLV, WebM, and others that are supported by Google Drive.

MP4 (H.264 Video Codec + AAC Audio Codec)

MP4 is the most widely supported video format in Google Slides, especially when uploading directly from Google Drive. MP4 files use the H.264 video codec and the AAC audio codec, both of which are recognized as the most universally compatible codecs for modern video playback.

If you’re uploading a video file, using MP4 ensures the least chance of encountering compatibility issues or playback errors.

File Size: MP4 files are compressed and typically maintain high quality without taking up too much storage space, making them an ideal choice for presentations.

MOV (QuickTime)

The MOV format, developed by Apple, is also supported by Google Slides via Google Drive. MOV files can be created on Apple devices or software like Final Cut Pro and iMovie.

While MOV is supported, you might experience better compatibility when converting MOV files into MP4 before uploading them to Google Drive, particularly if you’re sharing the presentation with users who don’t have QuickTime installed.

Supported Codecs: MOV files use a variety of video and audio codecs, such as H.264 and AAC, which are compatible with Google Slides when uploaded through Google Drive.

AVI (Audio Video Interleave)

AVI is a legacy format developed by Microsoft, and it is also supported in Google Slides via Google Drive. AVI files can contain various codecs for both video and audio, but compatibility might vary depending on the specific codec used.

To ensure smooth playback, it’s recommended to convert AVI files to MP4 if you’re encountering issues with playback or compatibility.

Video Quality: AVI files tend to be larger in file size than MP4 files, so they may be less optimal for use in presentations where file size and internet bandwidth are concerns.

WebM (HTML5 Video)

WebM is an open-source video format designed for web use. While not as commonly used as MP4. it is fully supported in Google Slides when uploaded via Google Drive.

WebM files are designed to be lightweight, making them a good option for web-based video playback. However, they may not be as widely compatible on devices outside of web browsers or systems that don’t support WebM natively.

Supported Codecs: WebM typically uses VP8 or VP9 video codecs and Vorbis or Opus for audio.

FLV (Flash Video)

FLV is another format supported by Google Slides through Google Drive, though it’s considered somewhat outdated due to the decline of Adobe Flash Player.

FLV videos can be used in presentations, but their use is not recommended since Adobe Flash is being phased out, and compatibility with modern browsers and devices may be limited.

Best Practices for Video Files in Google Slides

To ensure that videos in your Google Slides presentations function properly across various devices and platforms, here are some best practices to consider:

Convert Videos to MP4

MP4 is the most reliable and widely accepted format for video files. If your original video is in a different format (such as MOV or AVI), converting it to MP4 using a video converter tool (like HandBrake or Any Video Converter) will maximize compatibility and reduce potential playback issues.

Check File Size and Storage Limits

While Google Drive allows video uploads, it’s important to keep an eye on file sizes. Larger video files (greater than 100 MB) may slow down your presentation or cause playback issues, especially if you have a slow internet connection.

If you’re concerned about file size, consider compressing the video before uploading it, which can significantly improve upload times and reduce lag during playback.

Upload Videos to Google Drive

If you choose to upload videos directly to Google Drive for embedding into Google Slides, ensure that your Google Drive storage has enough space. Google provides 15GB of free storage, and beyond that, you may need to upgrade to Google One for additional storage capacity.

Once uploaded, ensure that the video has the proper sharing settings (Public or Anyone with the link) to ensure others can access the video during the presentation.

Test the Video Playback Before Presenting

Always test the video playback in your Google Slides presentation before presenting to an audience. This ensures that there are no connectivity issues, and the video plays as expected.

It’s also a good idea to test your presentation across different devices (such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones) to ensure that the video runs smoothly across all platforms.

Avoid Embedding from Unsupported Platforms

While Google Slides supports YouTube and Google Drive videos, embedding from other platforms (such as Vimeo or Dailymotion) may cause issues with compatibility or playback.

If you need to embed a video from a platform other than YouTube, download the video file first, upload it to Google Drive, and then insert it into your presentation.

Troubleshooting Video Playback Issues

Even though Google Slides supports several video formats, issues can occasionally arise during video playback. Here are some troubleshooting tips to resolve common issues:

Check Video Permissions

If you’re using a Google Drive video, ensure that the video has the correct sharing permissions. If the video is set to private or restricted access, viewers may not be able to watch the video during your presentation.

Set the video to “Anyone with the link” for universal access.

Test on Different Browsers

Google Slides works best on the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. If your video is not playing correctly in one browser, try switching to another browser to see if the issue persists.

Google Slides is optimized for Chrome, so using this browser can help avoid compatibility issues.

Re-encode the Video

If the video file is not playing correctly despite being in a supported format (like MP4), try re-encoding the video with a different video encoding tool to ensure it meets Google Slides’ compatibility standards.

Ensure Sufficient Internet Speed

Videos embedded from Google Drive or YouTube require a stable internet connection to stream without buffering. If you’re experiencing lag or stuttering during playback, check your internet connection or consider using a video file stored locally to reduce reliance on streaming.

Update Google Slides and Your Browser

Sometimes, playback issues may arise from outdated software. Make sure both your browser and Google Slides are updated to their latest versions.