Premiere Pro · Exporting and delivery

How to reduce video file size in Premiere Pro

Short answer

Export H.264 or HEVC and lower the target bitrate under Video > Bitrate Settings. Premiere shows the estimated file size at the bottom of Export mode as you change it.

In Premiere Pro

  1. 01

    Choose a compressed codec

    Use H.264, or HEVC (H.265) for about half the size at the same quality.

  2. 02

    Lower the bitrate

    Under Video > Bitrate Settings, choose VBR, 1 pass, and lower the Target Bitrate. 8 Mbps is plenty for most 1080p web video.

  3. 03

    Lower the resolution

    Export at 1080p or 720p instead of 4K if the viewer doesn't need it.

  4. 04

    Watch the estimate

    Check Estimated File Size at the bottom of Export mode before you click Export.

Eddie AI

Do it in Eddie

Ask Eddie for a size limit, and it renders under it.

Say "Export an MP4 under 25 MB." Eddie sets the file-size cap for you.

Try it in Eddie freeNew accounts start with 500 free credits.

From the help center

Questions

What bitrate gives a small but good 1080p file?
6 to 10 Mbps H.264 for web viewing.
Does lowering the frame rate make the file smaller?
A little, but it changes the motion. Lower the bitrate first.

More on exporting and delivery