Video Preparation

FloSync works with most video formats right out of the box. If you're using network sync or running a sync-critical installation, video format choices can make a noticeable difference.

This guide explains what affects sync performance and how to prepare your videos for the best results.

Do I Need to Prepare My Videos? #

For most users, the answer is no. FloSync handles standard video files well, and you may never notice any sync issues.

Consider preparing your videos if:

• You're using network sync across multiple computers
• You're running a professional installation where tight visual alignment matters
• You've noticed occasional stutters or jumps during synchronized playback
• You're playing the same video on multiple screens and noticing drift

If you're just playing different content on different screens (Independent mode), video preparation isn't necessary.

Understanding the Basics #

Some formats are easier for multi-computer playback than others. Choosing a sync-friendly format can improve consistency, especially over long sessions.

Why Some Videos Sync Better Than Others #

Videos are compressed in two ways:

All-Intra (Sync-Friendly)

• Built for consistent playback across multiple machines
• Helps keep long sessions visually aligned
• Files are larger, but results are more stable

Inter-Frame (Streaming-Friendly)

• Optimized for smaller file sizes
• Great for general playback and web delivery
• Can be less consistent in sync-critical multi-computer setups

Most videos from phones, cameras, and streaming services use streaming-friendly formats. These are excellent for everyday viewing, but dedicated sync-friendly formats are often better for large synchronized installations.

Recommended Format #

H.264 All-Intra is our recommended format for all platforms. It delivers excellent sync reliability, universal hardware-accelerated playback, and smaller file sizes than other all-intra codecs.

Alternatives #

The sample files and transcoding commands below also include ProRes 422, DNxHR HQ, and MJPEG for reference. These produce very large files without meaningful sync or quality benefits over H.264 All-Intra.

Sample Files for Testing #

We provide sample videos encoded in various formats so you can test sync performance on your own hardware before committing to a format for your project.

Download Sample Videos #

All samples are the same 37-second 30fps video (sports car footage) encoded in different formats:

Recommended Formats #

Other Formats (For Reference) #

These are included for illustration. Standard streaming formats are shown for comparison, and additional professional formats are available if you have specific needs.

How to Test #

1. Download a recommended sample (ProRes LT for macOS, DNxHR HQ for Windows)
2. Download an H.264 All-Intra sample for comparison
3. Set up network sync between two computers
4. Compare sync stability between the formats
5. Choose the format that meets your quality and storage requirements

Transcoding Your Videos #

The easiest way to transcode is the built-in Transcode Panel — open it from the View menu or toolbar and convert your files without leaving FloSync. It supports H.264 All-Intra, ProRes LT, and DNxHR HQ with hardware acceleration and smart audio handling. See the Transcoding guide for details.

If you prefer to transcode manually or need more control over encoding settings, FFmpeg is a free, powerful tool that works on Mac, Windows, and Linux.

H.264 All-Intra (Recommended) #

Our recommended format for all platforms. Excellent sync reliability, hardware-accelerated playback, and smaller files than other all-intra codecs.

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 \
  -c:v libx264 -preset slow -profile:v high -level 5.2 \
  -g 1 -keyint_min 1 -sc_threshold 0 \
  -b:v 50000k -maxrate 50000k -bufsize 100000k \
  -pix_fmt yuv420p \
  -c:a aac -b:a 256k \
  -y output.mp4

For 1080p content, you can reduce the bitrate:

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 \
  -vf "scale=1920:1080" \
  -c:v libx264 -preset slow -profile:v high \
  -g 1 -keyint_min 1 -sc_threshold 0 \
  -b:v 20000k -maxrate 20000k -bufsize 40000k \
  -pix_fmt yuv420p \
  -c:a aac -b:a 256k \
  -y output-1080p.mp4

File Size Expectations #

Sync-optimized formats produce larger files. Here's what to expect for a typical 1-minute video:

The larger file sizes are the tradeoff for consistent, reliable sync. Plan your storage accordingly.

Storage and Playback Tips #

Use Local Storage #

For best performance:

• Store videos on local SSD storage, not network drives
• Avoid USB 2.0 drives for high-bitrate formats like ProRes or DNxHR
• USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, or internal drives work well

Match Formats Across Computers #

When using network sync:

• Use the same video file on all computers
• Don't mix formats (e.g., ProRes on one, H.264 on another)
• Copy files rather than streaming from a network share

Consider Your Hardware #

• 4K ProRes/DNxHR requires capable hardware and fast storage
• If playback stutters, try 1080p or H.264 All-Intra instead
• Test before your event or installation

Quick Reference #

Best format for all platforms? → Use H.264 All-Intra — excellent sync reliability, hardware-accelerated playback, smaller files

Already working in ProRes or DNxHD? → Those work well too — just expect larger file sizes

Want to test before transcoding? → Download our sample files and compare

Related #

• Transcoding — Convert videos to sync-optimized formats directly in FloSync
• Network Sync — Setting up multi-computer sync
• Troubleshooting — Common issues and solutions
• FAQ — Frequently asked questions