Which video format is best for which purpose?

Some video formats are more suitable for different purposes than others. Some are better as camera clips, and others are better for editing or delivery (export). This section will delve into various file formats and their respective strengths for different applications. Let’s get started:

• The following are the formats best suitable as camera files. The most common file formats for entry-level cameras are AVCHD and MP4. However, different brands and more advanced cameras will have proprietary formats:
  • Sony camera formats are AVCHD, MP4, DV, XAVC S, XAVC S HD, HDV, MPEG2, MPEG4, and ProRes RAW
  • RED cameras use R3D and REDCODE RAW
  • ARRI cameras use formats with the .ari, .mxf, and .arriraw extensions
  • Canon cameras use MP4 (H.264), MP4 (HEVC), HEVC, XF-AVC (.mxf), RAW – Cinema RAW (.crm), and .mov
  • Panasonic cameras use the following:
    • HC: AVCHD, MP4, MP4, iFrame, and .mov
    • HDC: AVCHD and 50p H.264
    • HM: MPEG4 and Apple iFrame
    • SDR: SD...