Is the reduced video quality when uploading a background video to Webflow due to the video's export settings or something else on Webflow?

Reduced video quality in Webflow background videos is primarily due to Webflow's compression, not just your export settings.

1. Webflow Compresses Background Videos Automatically

• Webflow automatically compresses background videos after upload to optimize for performance and loading speed.
• This compression reduces resolution, bitrate, and overall quality—often making high-quality videos appear pixelated or blurry.

2. Background Videos Are Capped at 30 MB

• Webflow enforces a 30 MB file size limit for background videos.
• Large, high-quality videos must be exported or transcoded to stay within this limit, which often necessitates manual compression before upload.

3. Optimal Export Settings Help—but Won’t Eliminate Compression

• Export your video using settings such as:
• H.264 codec
• Resolution: 1920×1080 or lower
• Bitrate: Target around 5–8 Mbps to balance quality and file size
• Frame rate: Match source (typically 24–30 fps)
• Even if you export with high-quality settings, Webflow’s platform will still process and compress the video upon upload.

4. Use Alternatives for Higher Video Quality

• If quality is critical (e.g., for hero sections), consider:
• Hosting the video on platforms like Vimeo or YouTube and embedding it using a regular video element or custom embed (note: not usable as a true background).
• Using animated GIFs or Lottie files for abstract backgrounds.
• Hosting high-quality MP4 videos on a CDN and embedding via custom code, though this adds development complexity.

Summary

Webflow reduces background video quality through automatic compression to improve performance. While optimized export settings can help, the compression occurs server-side after upload, so final quality will always be affected. For better control, consider external hosting or video embedding alternatives.