VBR vs CBR: What Are the Differences between Them?
Summary: This article will elaborate the definition and differences of Variable Bit Rate and Constant Bit Rate, and compare their output qualities and encoding speeds especially. You can also know how to convert VBR to CBR video without hassel.
What Do CBR and VBR Mean?
CBR, the acronym of Constant Bit Rate, is an encoding method by which the bit rate of the consumed output data is constant.
As opposed to CBR, VBR stands for Variable Bit Rate, which is another encoding method that varies the amount of output data per time section.
VBR vs CBR: The Advantages and Disadvantages for Each
1. CBR
Advantages of CBR
• Process audio data at a faster speed (as compared with VBR).
• Perform better in streaming multimedia content.
Disadvantages of CBR
• It can't distribute ample data for complex segments - Restricted by its constant bit rate, CBR encoding doesn’t distribute ample data for complex segments while putting excess data into simple segments.
• Inept in producing variable-length codes.
2. VBR
Advantages of VBR
• The dynamic allocation of data according to the complexity of a mission - (Allocate a higher bit rate for complex segments, while distributing less space for simple segments)
• Automatically adjust the bit rate below the max limit you set - It would bring forth a superior outcome although might takes longer.
Disadvantages of VBR
• Might not compatible with old electronic gadgets.
• Require a longer time.
VBR vs CBR: Which One Should You Choose？
Except for those CBR-supported formats from old devices, VBR is the recommended one for the most of the time, which can ensure the best quality-size ratio and the efficient utilization of limited storage for you. Learn: Video Quality Enhancer | Video Size Reducer
Here remains a question: Is there any software where you can use convert between CBR and VBR? Of course there is.
Change between VBR, CBR and ABR in VideoProc
VideoProc is a powerful one-stop video-processing software that can help you Cut, convert, merge, and crop videos at full GPU-accelerated speed. And all the above procession products can be exported at CBR or VBR encoding. In this section, we’ll introduce you an entry-level user guide on how to convert a VBR to a CBR video in VideoProc.
1) Free download VideoProc
• First of all, download the software on your Windows or Mac computer.
2) Import the original video
• Open VideoProc > click the first button Video to enter into Video Processing panel.
• Click on the +Video button to add the original VBR video from your local drive.
3) Set the codec option
• After importing the video, click Option button to enter into format setting window.
Under Video Codec Options, find Bit Rate, choose Manual and then tick CBR; set Target Bit Rate(kbps) if necessary. Click Done at the bottom.
Optionally, you can choose ABR under Auto Calulate or Manual.
(Tips: ABR, namely Average Bit Rate, is called the "safe VBR")
Final Words
VideoProc makes a great combination of impressive performances and user-friendly operations. It can definitely make your encoding job easy. Better still, it is a full-stack video software program that can also download, record and edit videos. Without installing a pile of applications on your PC, the single piece can help you do more things! Download VideoProc to enjoy the multiple features now.
