Converter · Windows, macOS, Linux
HandBrake export settings, per platform.
Where every export setting lives in HandBrake, what it can and cannot control, and a guide for each platform.
What HandBrake lets you set
- Bitrate control
- Yes, in Kbps
- 2-pass encoding
- Yes
- Profile / level
- Both
- Keyframe interval
- Yes, in frames
- HEVC (H.265)
- Yes
- HDR export
- Yes
- Frame rate
- Choose on export
Official export help Release notesLabels checked 2026-10-25
The export, step by step (example: Discord, 1080p, 30 fps)
- 1Open Source and pick your exported master file (or download the ready preset below and use Presets > Import from file).
- 2Summary tab: Format MP4, tick Web Optimized.
- 3Dimensions tab: set the size to 1920 x 1080.
- 4Video tab: Video Encoder H.264 (x264), Framerate 30, Constant Framerate.
- 5Quality: Avg Bitrate (kbps) 5000, tick Multi-Pass Encoding.
- 6Encoder Profile High, Encoder Level 4.0. In Advanced Options add keyint=60:vbv-maxrate=5500:vbv-bufsize=11000.
- 7Audio tab: AAC, Stereo, 48000 kHz, Bitrate 128.
- 8Set Save As and click Start Encode.
For HDR
- Start from an HDR source (HDR10 or HLG) and choose a 10-bit encoder such as H.265 10-bit (x265). HandBrake passes the HDR metadata through.
HandBrake pitfalls
- Peak Framerate keeps variable frame rate; choose Constant Framerate for platforms and editors.
- Avg Bitrate has no maximum field; the vbv options in Advanced Options set the cap (software encoders only).
- HandBrake re-encodes: always feed it your highest-quality master, never an already-compressed upload.
HandBrake export settings by platform
Frequently asked questions
What are the best HandBrake export settings?
For a 1080p upload: H.264 High profile, your recorded frame rate, 8-12 Mbps (higher for 4K), AAC audio at 48 kHz, MP4. The exact numbers depend on the platform; pick one below.
Can HandBrake set a bitrate?
Yes, in kilobits per second (8 Mbps = 8000). It also offers 2-pass encoding.
Can HandBrake export HDR?
Yes. Start from an HDR source (HDR10 or HLG) and choose a 10-bit encoder such as H.265 10-bit (x265). HandBrake passes the HDR metadata through.
Shinel Studios
Rather send the footage and get upload-ready edits back?
Our editors cut, caption, colour and export to each platform's spec, with 2 revision rounds. Shorts come back in 48-72 hours, long videos in 5-10 days.