Video · .mkv
What Is an MKV File?
A .mkv file is a flexible open video container that can hold many audio and subtitle tracks.
- Extension
- .mkv
- Full name
- Matroska video
- Type
- Video
- MIME type
- video/x-matroska
- Developed by
- Matroska project (2002)
About MKV Files
MKV is an open container that can hold any number of video, audio and subtitle tracks in one file, along with chapters and attachments such as fonts. That makes it popular for films and series with multiple languages, and for Blu-ray rips. WebM is based on it. Because it can contain almost any codec, compatibility depends on what's inside. VLC, Plex and most smart TVs play MKV, but Apple's built-in apps don't.
How to Open an MKV File
- Windows
- Media Player on Windows 10 and 11 plays most MKV files. VLC plays all of them.
- Mac
- Use VLC or IINA.
- iPhone & Android
- Use VLC for Mobile or Infuse.
MKV File Questions
Can QuickTime play MKV?
No. Use VLC or IINA on a Mac, or convert it to MP4 with HandBrake.
Can I convert MKV to MP4 without losing quality?
Often yes. If the video is H.264 or HEVC, tools such as FFmpeg or MKVToolNix can copy it into an MP4 without re-encoding.