List Available Encoders
For H.265, common options include:
- Software:
libx265
- NVIDIA:
hevc_nvenc
- Intel Quick Sync:
hevc_qsv
- AMD AMF:
hevc_amf
Typical Command Templates
Software encoding (CPU, higher quality control)
1
|
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v libx265 -preset medium -crf 28 -c:a copy output_x265.mp4
|
NVIDIA hardware encoding
1
|
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v hevc_nvenc -preset p5 -cq 28 -c:a copy output_nvenc.mp4
|
Intel Quick Sync
1
|
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v hevc_qsv -global_quality 28 -c:a copy output_qsv.mp4
|
AMD AMF
1
|
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v hevc_amf -quality quality -rc cqp -qp_i 28 -qp_p 28 -c:a copy output_amf.mp4
|
Comparison Summary
- Software (
libx265): usually better compression efficiency and quality tuning, but slower.
- Hardware encoders: much faster, lower CPU usage, great for batch conversion/realtime needs.
- Best choice depends on your target:
- archive quality: prefer
libx265
- fast throughput: prefer hardware encoder
Benchmarking Tips
- Keep input source, resolution, and target bitrate/quality consistent.
- Compare both speed (
fps) and output size/visual quality.
- Test multiple presets before deciding production defaults.