FLV file format
Flash Video (.flv): nothing today: convert old Flash videos to MP4.
FLV was the format behind early YouTube and most web video of the 2000s, played through Adobe Flash Player. Flash was shut down at the end of 2020, so FLV files no longer play in browsers. Converting them to MP4 keeps old videos watchable everywhere.
| Full name | Flash Video |
|---|---|
| File extension | .flv, .f4v |
| MIME type | video/x-flv |
| Created | early 2000s by Macromedia / Adobe |
| Usual codecs | Sorenson Spark, VP6 or H.264 video with MP3 or AAC audio |
| Plays on | Only VLC and similar players — Adobe Flash Player was discontinued in 2020 |
| Best for | nothing today: convert old Flash videos to MP4 |
Advantages
- Small files
Drawbacks
- Obsolete: Flash Player is gone
- Plays only in a few desktop players
Convert FLV to…
Frequently asked questions
What is a .flv file?
FLV was the format behind early YouTube and most web video of the 2000s, played through Adobe Flash Player. Flash was shut down at the end of 2020, so FLV files no longer play in browsers. Converting them to MP4 keeps old videos watchable everywhere.
How do I open a FLV file?
Only desktop players such as VLC still play FLV. Convert to MP4 to watch it anywhere else.
How do I convert FLV?
Use one of the converters below — they run in your browser, so your videos are never uploaded. Most popular: FLV to MP4, FLV to MP3, FLV to MOV.