Why Convert MPG to OGV?
MPG files use patented MPEG compression that can create licensing complications for web projects. OGV (Ogg Video) is a completely royalty-free format developed by the Xiph.Org Foundation as an open alternative.
If you're building websites, creating open-source projects, or want to avoid proprietary video codecs entirely, OGV is the format you need. Converting your MPG files to OGV ensures your videos play without licensing concerns.
How to Convert MPG to OGV
- Upload your MPG file - Drag and drop or click to select your video
- Confirm OGV output - OGV is selected as your target format
- Download your video - Get your royalty-free OGV file instantly
The entire process happens in your browser. No software installation, no account creation, no hidden costs.
MPG vs OGV: Technical Comparison
Both formats handle video compression differently, and each has specific strengths:
- Codec - MPG uses MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 compression; OGV uses Theora (based on VP3)
- Licensing - MPG involves patent licensing; OGV is completely royalty-free
- File size - In our testing, OGV files are typically 10-20% larger than equivalent MPG files at similar quality
- Browser support - Firefox, Chrome, and Opera support OGV natively via HTML5 video
- Quality - Both formats support high-quality video, though MPEG-2 has a slight edge at higher bitrates
The trade-off is clear: OGV offers freedom from licensing at the cost of slightly larger files.
When to Use OGV Format
Open-Source Projects
If you're distributing software or content under open-source licenses, OGV avoids any patent entanglements. The format aligns with free software principles.
HTML5 Web Video
OGV was one of the original HTML5 video formats. While MP4 has become more common, OGV still works natively in Firefox and Chrome without requiring additional codecs.
Avoiding Licensing Fees
Commercial projects distributing video at scale may face MPEG licensing requirements. OGV eliminates this concern entirely.
Alternative Formats to Consider
Depending on your needs, other formats might serve you better:
- MPG to WebM - Another royalty-free option with better compression than OGV. WebM is the modern open-source choice for web video.
- MPG to MP4 - Maximum compatibility across all devices and platforms. Best if licensing isn't a concern.
- OGV files - If you already have OGV and need to convert to other formats.
For most web projects today, WebM offers better compression than OGV while remaining royalty-free. OGV remains relevant for legacy browser support and projects committed to the Ogg ecosystem.
Browser and Platform Support
Our converter works entirely in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- iPhone, iPad, Android devices
For OGV playback after conversion: Firefox and Chrome support OGV natively. Safari and Edge require a plugin or transcoding to another format. VLC Media Player handles OGV on any operating system.