Storage file vs preview playback
Drive can create preview playback versions, but that does not mean your original stored file becomes smaller for quota, download or sharing workflows.
Google Drive stores your uploaded video file, but preview playback may use processed versions. If your goal is a smaller file for upload or sharing, compress the video before sending it to Drive.
Compress your video before uploading it to Google Drive.
Compress MP4, MOV, and WebM inputs to stable MP4 output up to 2GB without installing software.
Drive can create preview playback versions, but that does not mean your original stored file becomes smaller for quota, download or sharing workflows.
If file size matters, use a video compressor first. Lowering resolution, bitrate or FPS creates a smaller MP4 you can upload intentionally.
Drive is useful for sharing large files by link. LessMB is useful before upload when you need a smaller file from the start.
Short answers for the most common questions about this workflow and LessMB's local browser compression.
Google Drive may process previews, but you should not rely on it to shrink the original file you upload.
Yes, if you want to reduce storage use, speed up upload, or make the file easier to download.
Yes. LessMB can compress supported videos locally and export MP4 for easier uploading and sharing.