> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.descript.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How Descript Controls Export Quality and File Size

> See how quality presets, resolution, and project content affect the size and clarity of your exported MP4.

When you export a video, its resolution, compression, and file size come down to your export settings and what's in the project.

## This article covers:

* [How Descript handles exports](#how-descript-handles-exports)
* [What affects export file size](#what-affects-export-file-size)

## How Descript handles exports

Descript uses optimized compression to balance visual quality with performance and file size.

Videos are exported in MP4 format. When using [local export](/export-and-share/video-gif), you're able to select from three quality presets: **High**, **Medium**, or **Low**. These presets manage compression—there aren’t advanced options for things like bitrate or resolution beyond that.

<Note>
  **Descript does not upscale your media**

  If your source is 720p, exporting at 1080p won’t improve the quality; it just creates a larger file. Also, keep in mind that the resolution options you have when exporting are also restricted by your plan and your [aspect ratio and video settings](/working-in-projects/aspect-ratio).
</Note>

## What affects export file size

Several elements impact file size—some based on your content, others based on export settings you choose during the export process.

* **Resolution:** Higher resolutions (like 4K) produce larger files
* **Duration:** Longer timelines lead to bigger exports
* **Framerate:** 60fps files are larger than 30fps versions
* **Export quality:** High, Medium, or Low presets affect compression
* **Hardware acceleration:** Disabling **force software video decoding** in your [app settings](/account-and-app-settings/app-settings) can slightly reduce file size—but exports may take longer
* **Recording vs. Exporting:** Recorded files tend to be larger—they capture raw content with high accuracy. Exports are compressed to be smaller and easier to share, while still looking good.

<Note>
  **File size does not directly relate to file quality**

  A larger file doesn't always mean higher quality. Always check for visible quality differences between the original source and the exported file.
</Note>

## Need precise control? Use XML

If you’re exporting for further editing in software like Premiere Pro or Final Cut, export your project as a timeline (XML file). This keeps the timeline structure, clip layout, and edits intact.

**Note:** The files included in the timeline export will have their sample rate upscaled to match the highest sample rate among the files. [Learn more about timeline exports →](/export-and-share/timeline-exports)