- by x32x01 ||
FFmpeg is one of the most powerful open-source tools used for video and audio processing. Whether you want to convert, compress, trim, or stream media, FFmpeg makes it simple using just a few terminal commands. 
Let’s explore some of the most common and useful FFmpeg commands every Linux user should know
Need to change a video from
This command converts the input file into a new MP4 video while keeping the best possible quality.
Want to cut a specific part of a video? Try this:
This trims the video between 1:00 and 2:30 minutes - fast and lossless! 
You can easily extract the audio track from a video file:
Perfect for saving your favorite background music or podcast segments 
Want a thumbnail or preview image? Use:
This takes a snapshot at the 10-second mark 
Combine multiple clips into one seamless file:
(Tip: your filelist.txt should list all clips like this - file 'clip1.mp4' on each line.)
Need to convert a .wav file to .mp3?
Quick and efficient for optimizing storage without losing quality 
Shrink large videos while maintaining decent quality:
The libx265 codec offers strong compression, making it ideal for YouTube or online sharing 
FFmpeg might look intimidating at first glance, but once you learn these simple commands, you’ll realize how powerful and flexible it is! Whether you’re editing videos, creating GIFs, or streaming, FFmpeg is your go-to Linux companion. 
Let’s explore some of the most common and useful FFmpeg commands every Linux user should know
1. Convert Video Format
Need to change a video from .mkv to .mp4? It’s super easy: Code:
ffmpeg -i input.mkv output.mp4
2. Trim a Video Without Re-Encoding
Want to cut a specific part of a video? Try this: Code:
ffmpeg -ss 00:01:00 -to 00:02:30 -i input.mp4 -c copy output.mp4
3. Extract Audio from a Video
You can easily extract the audio track from a video file: Code:
ffmpeg -i video.mp4 -q:a 0 -map a output.mp3
4. Capture a Screenshot from Video
Want a thumbnail or preview image? Use: Code:
ffmpeg -i video.mp4 -ss 00:00:10 -vframes 1 thumbnail.png
5. Merge Multiple Videos
Combine multiple clips into one seamless file: Code:
ffmpeg -f concat -safe 0 -i filelist.txt -c copy output.mp4 6. Convert Audio Format
Need to convert a .wav file to .mp3? Code:
ffmpeg -i input.wav output.mp3 7. Reduce Video File Size
Shrink large videos while maintaining decent quality: Code:
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -vcodec libx265 -crf 28 output.mp4
Final Thoughts
FFmpeg might look intimidating at first glance, but once you learn these simple commands, you’ll realize how powerful and flexible it is! Whether you’re editing videos, creating GIFs, or streaming, FFmpeg is your go-to Linux companion. Last edited: