But simply using x265 doesn't automatically solve your storage problems. The phrase has become a mantra for those looking to squeeze a 50GB Blu-ray rip down to a manageable 5GB or 10GB file.
Even if your source is 8-bit, encoding in can actually result in smaller file sizes and less "banding" in dark scenes. The 10-bit math is more efficient at handling gradients, making it a favorite for the shrinking community.
First, the technical marvel. x265 improves on H.264 by using larger coding tree units (up to 64×64 pixels), more precise motion compensation, and better intra-prediction. For a given file size, it genuinely looks better. Netflix and YouTube use HEVC to stream 4K to millions. For home users, x265 meant a full Blu-ray rip could drop from 50GB to 10–15GB with virtually no visible loss.
While there are many command-line tools available, two open-source programs stand out for their reliability and power. HandBrake (Best for Beginners & Intermediates) shrinking x265
x265 --input source.y4m --output compressed.hevc --preset medium --crf 22 --profile main10 --no-sao --no-strong-intra-smoothing --aq-mode 3 --aq-strength 1.2 --deblock -2:-2
: The most user-friendly option. Simply select the "H.265 (x265)" video codec under the Video tab.
For x265, a CRF between 20 and 23 is ideal for 1080p content. For 4K video, you can safely push the CRF to 24 or 26 because the higher pixel density naturally masks minor compression artifacts. Encoder Presets But simply using x265 doesn't automatically solve your
Even if your source is 8-bit, encoding with x265 10-bit often results in better compression and fewer artifacts (like color banding).
And hardware decoders aren’t equal. Some cheap media players mishandle HEVC’s 10-bit color (common even in 8-bit rips), causing red shifts or posterization. The shrinker assumes you’ll never notice. But the hardware might betray you.
To get the smallest file size without turning your video into a pixelated mess, focus on these three primary variables: 1. Constant Rate Factor (CRF) The 10-bit math is more efficient at handling
Most users shrink x265 videos using either a graphical interface like HandBrake or a command-line tool like FFmpeg . Using HandBrake Drag your video into the HandBrake app . Video Tab: Set Video Codec to H.265 (x265) or H.265 10-bit .
The next time you download a 1.5GB x265 “1080p” movie, ask yourself: Are you saving space, or are you watching a ghost of the original?
| | Recommended CRF Range | Explanation | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Archival Master | 18–22 | Visually lossless quality. Very large files meant for a permanent collection. | | Streaming / Web | 23–28 | An excellent balance of good quality and reasonable file size. CRF 26 is often a "sweet spot". | | Social Media / Batch | 28–32 | Much smaller files with noticeable compression artifacts, acceptable for fleeting content. | | Preview / Thumbnails | 32–38 | Low quality is fine; the goal is the absolute smallest file size possible. |