MPG File: How to Open and Convert

The MPG file extension is traditionally used for video files encoded in the standard MPEG format developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group. This file format contains multimedia that combines compressed video, audio and metadata in one stream. MPG files are usually used to create videos that are shared on the web.

What is a MPG file?

With the MPG file format, it is possible to compress audio and video data maintaining the acceptable quality. Apart from facilitating the process of downloading, files with the .mpg extension allow you to save space on your hard drive. Although it has a small size, an MPG file stores high-quality data. Both MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 formats can have the .mpg file extension. They contain audio and video data and synchronize these two data streams. MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 files are compatible with Windows, Mac OS as well as mobile platforms.

MPEG-1 compresses files up to 1.5 Mbps. Digital video files, for example, those that we get by digitizing VHS tapes have a compression ratio of 26:1. Audio files recorded on CDs have a compression ratio of 6:1. It is worth noting that MPEG-1 is one of the most versatile formats for recording audio and video data. MPEG-2 is used to compress interleaved audio and video data (for example, movies). It allows you to work with audio data up to 5.1 multichannel. Although the maximum target bit rate of MPEG-2 is 1 Mb/s, video decoders can play files with a lower bit rate since they are backward-compatible with MPEG-1 files. MPEG-2 files are usually used for cable, satellite and digital TV as well as for creating DVDs.

• Learn more about the highest quality image format.

How to Open a MPG File?

There is an extensive number of programs for playing MPG file. For example, you can use such professional software as Adobe Premiere Pro. Also, there are numerous free and open-source programs like VLC Media Player and Elmedia Player.

• Find out how to buy Adobe Premiere Pro.

Professional Software to Open MPG File

Adobe Premiere Pro. This is probably the first professional software for playing an MPG file. Apart from opening and converting MPG files, Adobe Premiere Pro can edit videos, add files and LUTs, enhance audio, etc.

CyberLink PowerDirector. PowerDirector is one of the best video editing software available on the market. It features basic video editing tools which makes it a perfect solution for a regular user. This program comes with advanced authoring features for Blu-ray Discs and DVDs. It is compatible with numerous media formats, including an MPG format.

• Get more information about PowerDirector Free.

Free Software to Open MPG File

VideoLAN VLC Media Player. Being popular among many users, this universal media player is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux as well as Android and iOS mobile platforms. It works with a large number of file formats, including CD/DVD videos and various streaming media. Besides, VideoLAN VLC Media Player can open the most commonly used media formats and MPG is no exception.

• Learn more about different formats by checking out information about PSD file: how to open and convert.

Apple QuickTime Player. Apple QuickTime Player is a feature-rich media player that is compatible with both Mac OS and Windows. It can handle different types of images, sounds and videos, including MPG files. QuickTime Player offers H.264 video compression which allows you to watch HD videos in vibrant detail.

How to Convert MPG?

You may find it rather simple to convert an MPG file using a web-based file conversion platform. Online video converters are very easy to use and are usually available free of charge. Moreover, you don’t need to download and install any additional software on your computer. The only shortcoming of online file converters is the time-consuming process of a video file downloading. With this in mind, I selectedthree file converters for computers and mobile devices.

Xilisoft Video Converter Ultimate. This program will be a perfect option if you want to convert and edit videos, sounds and images. Being compatible with Windows and Mac OS, this software can convert numerous media files, including MPG formats and HD video up to 4K.

• Check out more on Lrtemplate file: how to install and use.

Zamzar. This is a web-based video conversion service that works with the most common video formats, such as MPG, 3GP, FLV, WMV, 3G2, MP4, MOV and AVI. In addition to the classic file conversion, Zamzar also allows you to convert video to audio. The main drawback of Zamzar is a maximum file upload limit of 150 MB.

• View more about MP4 file format.

VidCompact. VidCompact is a rather powerful video converter and is available free of charge. In addition to the video conversion feature, it can compress and cut videos as well as convert MP3 files. Although it is a new application, it grows fast and includes a lot of useful features. Moreover, it supports almost all common video and audio formats, such as HD, WMV, HTML5 video, MOV, MKV, MPG, FLV, MP4 and AVI.

• Also, you can read about difference between JPEG and PNG.

MPG File: FAQ

• What is an MPG file?

MPG is a file that includes video, audio and metadata in one data stream and is encoded in the standard MPEG format. MPG is a very popular media file format as it is mostly used for creating videos and distributing them online.

• Which player can play MPG files?

MPG is a widely-used file format, so it is compatible with numerous media players. You can play this type of file using Windows Media Player, Adobe Premiere Pro, QuickTime, iTunes and VLC Media Player.

• Is MPG the same as MP4?

MPG file is usually associated with MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 video/audio compressions whiletheMP4 file uses MPEG-4 compression. The biggest difference between these two file formats is that MP4 can store subtitles, pictures and other information while MPG stores only video and audio.

• Can Windows Media Player play MPG files?

If you use Windows OS, it will play media on Windows Media Player by default. However, you may need to install a MPEG-2 encoder. If you are a Mac OS user, you can play MPG files on the QuickTime Player.

Ann Young

Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more