Comparison
Compresto vs VLC
VLC is the world's most popular media player and can convert/compress video, but compression is not its core purpose. Compresto is purpose-built for compression with a simpler workflow.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Compresto | VLC |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | macOS only | macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Video compression | Basic | |
| Image compression | ||
| PDF compression | ||
| Batch processing | ||
| Hardware acceleration | Limited | |
| Drag & drop | ||
| Price model | One-time purchase / free tier | Free & open-source |
Compresto Strengths
- Purpose-built for compression with optimized quality presets
- Batch processing — compress multiple files at once
- Image and PDF compression VLC cannot handle
- Much simpler compression workflow vs VLC's Convert/Save menus
VLC Strengths
- Completely free with no restrictions
- Plays virtually any video format without codecs
- Available on every platform including mobile
Choose Compresto when...
- Your primary need is reducing file sizes efficiently
- You compress batches of files regularly
- You need image or PDF compression alongside video
- You find VLC's Convert/Save workflow confusing or cumbersome
Choose VLC when...
- You mainly need a media player and only occasionally convert files
- You want a completely free solution with zero cost
- You need to play unusual video formats that other apps cannot open
Pricing
Compresto
One-time purchase $19.99 or free tier with limits
VLC
Free and open-source
Switching from VLC?
VLC's compression (Convert/Save) uses basic settings and lacks batch support. Switch to Compresto for faster batch compression with better quality control.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can VLC compress videos on Mac?
- VLC has a Convert/Save feature that can transcode video, but it is limited and not designed for efficient compression. Compresto is purpose-built for compression with better results.
- Is VLC a good video compressor?
- VLC is an excellent media player but a mediocre compressor. It lacks batch processing, quality optimization, and hardware acceleration for compression tasks. Compresto is the better choice for compression.
- Does Compresto replace VLC as a media player?
- No. Compresto is a compression tool, not a media player. Use VLC for playback and Compresto for compression — they serve different purposes.
- Why is Compresto better than VLC for compression?
- Compresto was designed specifically for compression with quality presets, batch processing, hardware acceleration, and support for images and PDFs. VLC's compression is a secondary feature.
- How do I compress a video on Mac without VLC?
- Drop your video into Compresto and click compress. The app automatically selects optimal settings for file size reduction with quality preservation — no manual configuration needed.
Other Comparisons
Compresto vs HandBrake
Compare Compresto and HandBrake to find the right video compression tool for your Mac workflow.
Compresto vs FFmpeg
GUI simplicity vs command-line power — compare Compresto and FFmpeg for Mac video compression.
Compresto vs Shutter Encoder
Compare Compresto and Shutter Encoder to choose the right video compression approach for your Mac.
Compresto vs Permute 3
Two native macOS tools compared — see how Compresto and Permute 3 differ in compression focus and format support.
Compresto vs Apple Compressor
Professional video encoding vs everyday compression — compare Apple Compressor and Compresto for Mac.
Compresto vs Clideo
Online browser-based compression vs offline Mac app — compare Clideo and Compresto for video compression.