# What is an MKV file?

MKV (Matroska Video) is a flexible open container format that can hold video, audio, subtitles, and metadata.

Canonical URL: https://www.subclip.app/faq/what-is-an-mkv-file

Last modified: 2026-04-17T00:00:00+00:00

**Definition**
MKV (Matroska Video) is an open standard container that supports multiple video, audio, subtitle, chapter, and attachment tracks.

**Who made it and why**
The Matroska project started in 2002 to provide an open, extensible format for complex multimedia packaging.

**Why MKV is popular**
- Multi-track audio/subtitles
- Strong archive use cases
- Flexible metadata and chapter support

**Use it in Subclip**
Import MKV in [Subclip Home Player](https://subclip.app/home), edit with [AI Video Editor](/tools/ai-video-editor), and convert using [MKV to MP4](/tools/convert-video-format/mkv-to-mp4).

**History and adoption**
MKV grew in archival and enthusiast workflows through the 2000s/2010s and was formalized in IETF RFC 9559 (2024).

**TL;DR**
MKV is ideal when one file needs multiple tracks and rich structure.

**Related converters**
[MKV to MP4](/tools/convert-video-format/mkv-to-mp4), [MP4 to MKV](/tools/convert-video-format/mp4-to-mkv).

**Related FAQs**
[How do I open an MKV file?](/faq/how-to-open-an-mkv-file), [What is an MP4 file?](/faq/what-is-an-mp4-file), [How do I open an MP4 file?](/faq/how-to-open-an-mp4-file).

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