¿Qué es WMV (Video de Windows Media)?

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WMV

¿Qué es WMV (Video de Windows Media)?

Guía completa de archivos WMV (Windows Media Video)

Última actualización:

Year2000
TypeVideo
UsageWindows video playback

What is it?

WMV (Windows Media Video) is Microsoft's proprietary video codec and format, part of the Windows Media framework. It was widely used for Windows Media Player content and early internet video.

WMV was Microsoft's attempt to compete with DivX and RealMedia in the early internet video era. While still supported on Windows, it has largely been replaced by MP4 for most uses.

Technical Specifications

Created ByMicrosoft
Codec FamilyVC-1 / Windows Media Video 7/8/9
ContainerASF (Advanced Systems Format)
DRMWindows Media DRM supported
StatusLegacy but still supported on Windows
Extension.wmv

Pros & Cons

Advantages

Nativo de Windows

WMV plays on all Windows versions natively without additional codecs.

Soporte DRM

WMV supports digital rights management for protected video content.

Buena compresión

WMV 9 (VC-1) provides competitive compression quality.

Compatible con Xbox

WMV is natively supported by Xbox consoles for media playback.

Disadvantages

Soporte limitado para no Windows

WMV has poor support on macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.

Formato propietario

WMV is Microsoft's proprietary format with licensing implications.

No estándar web

Web browsers do not natively support WMV without plugins.

Uso en declive

WMV is rarely used for new video content - MP4 is universally preferred.

When to Use It

Here are the most common situations where WMV (Windows Media Video) is the right choice:

Video legado de Windows

WMV is common in old Windows Media Player content and video libraries from the 2000s.

Presentaciones de Windows

Some older Windows-based corporate presentations use WMV.

Reproducción de medios en Xbox

WMV is supported on Xbox for playing recorded video content.

Contenido DRM de Windows

Some older purchased video content from Microsoft stores used WMV with DRM.

How to open a WMV file

WMV (Windows Media Video) files can be handled by various software categories, including professional video editing tools, free/open-source players, browser-based applications, and built-in system players. Professional tools are suited for users needing advanced editing features, while free options cater to casual viewers. Browser-based applications offer convenience for quick access, and built-in players provide basic functionality without additional installations.

When choosing software for WMV, consider factors like feature fidelity, whether you need editing or just viewing capabilities, cost, and platform compatibility. Some tools excel in playback quality, while others offer robust editing features. Additionally, evaluate export needs, as converting WMV to other formats may be necessary for compatibility with certain devices or software.

VLC Media Player 3.0.16

Windows, macOS, LinuxFree (GPL)

VLC Media Player is a versatile open-source media player that supports WMV playback and streaming. It handles WMV files with high fidelity and offers basic editing features like trimming and merging.

Funciones clave
  • Supports a wide range of video formats
  • Basic editing tools for trimming and merging
  • Customizable playback settings
  • Streaming capabilities over networks
Fortalezas
  • Completely free and open-source
  • Cross-platform compatibility
  • No ads or spyware
Limitaciones
  • Limited advanced editing features
  • Interface may feel outdated

Exporta a: MP4, AVI, MKV, MOV

Ideal para: VLC is ideal for users seeking a free, reliable player for WMV files with basic editing capabilities.

Visitar VLC Media Player →

Windows Movie Maker 2012

WindowsFree (discontinued)

Windows Movie Maker is a user-friendly video editing software that supports WMV files natively. Although discontinued, it allows for easy editing, including transitions and effects, making it suitable for beginners.

Funciones clave
  • Drag-and-drop video editing
  • Basic effects and transitions
  • Audio editing capabilities
  • Supports WMV and other formats
Fortalezas
  • Simple interface for beginners
  • Good for quick edits
  • Direct WMV support
Limitaciones
  • No longer officially supported
  • Limited advanced features

Exporta a: WMV, MP4, AVI

Ideal para: Windows Movie Maker is perfect for novice users needing basic WMV editing without complex features.

Visitar Windows Movie Maker →

Adobe Premiere Pro 2023

Windows, macOSSubscription

Adobe Premiere Pro is a professional video editing software that offers extensive support for WMV files. It provides high fidelity in editing and exporting, making it suitable for filmmakers and content creators.

Funciones clave
  • Multi-track editing with timeline
  • Advanced color grading tools
  • Support for 4K and higher resolutions
  • Extensive format export options
Fortalezas
  • Industry-standard editing capabilities
  • Robust support for various formats
  • Regular updates with new features
Limitaciones
  • High subscription cost
  • Steep learning curve for beginners

Exporta a: MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV

Ideal para: Adobe Premiere Pro is best for professionals needing comprehensive editing features and high-quality WMV support.

Visitar Adobe Premiere Pro →

Online Convert N/A

All (browser)Free / Paid

Online Convert is a web-based conversion tool that allows users to upload and convert WMV files to various formats. It is particularly useful for those who need quick conversions without installing software.

Funciones clave
  • Convert WMV to multiple formats
  • Adjust video settings before conversion
  • No software installation required
  • Supports batch conversion
Fortalezas
  • Accessible from any device with a browser
  • No need for local storage
  • User-friendly interface
Limitaciones
  • Dependent on internet connection
  • Limited editing features

Exporta a: MP4, AVI, MOV, FLV

Ideal para: Online Convert is ideal for users needing a quick, convenient way to convert WMV files without software installation.

Visitar Online Convert →

Convert WMV (Windows Media Video) Files

Need to convert your WMV files? Use our free online converter.

Convert WMV (Windows Media Video) Files

Referencias

  1. Windows Media Video - Library of Congress
  2. WMV (Windows Media Video) File Format - Library of Congress
  3. ASF (Advanced Systems Format) - Library of Congress
  4. Windows Media Video - Wikipedia