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What's the Difference Between AWS MediaConvert and AWS MediaLive?

Compare AWS MediaConvert and AWS MediaLive side by side — features, pricing, and ideal use cases to help you choose the right product.

Compare side-by-side

Comparisons
AWS MediaConvert
AWS MediaLive
Category

Application Integration, Media Processing

Application Integration, Live Streaming

Description

Converts file-based video content

Encodes live video for broadcast and streaming

Best for
  • Video transcoding
  • OTT content preparation
  • Broadcast file conversion
  • Ad insertion
  • Live streaming
  • Broadcast contribution
  • Live events
  • Linear channel playout
Key features
  • Broadcast-grade quality
  • HDR support
  • DRM packaging
  • Caption support
  • Audio normalization
  • Multiple input types
  • Redundant pipelines
  • Ad marker passthrough
  • Audio encoding
  • Statmux
Pricing model

Pay per minute of video output

Pay per input and output channel hour

Free tier

Yes

No

Expert take

“MediaConvert transcodes video files at scale without managing encoding infrastructure. It supports broadcast-grade formats, HDR, and Dolby audio in a serverless pay-per-minute model.”
— Gary McLean, re:Post Top Contributor [profile]

“MediaLive encodes live video streams for broadcast and OTT delivery. It supports redundant pipelines with automatic failover for 24/7 live channel reliability.”
— Giovanni Lauria, re:Post Top Contributor [profile]

Product page

When to use AWS MediaConvert or AWS MediaLive

Use AWS MediaConvert when:

  • Video transcoding
  • OTT content preparation
  • Broadcast file conversion
  • Ad insertion

Learn more about AWS MediaConvert »

Use AWS MediaLive when:

  • Live streaming
  • Broadcast contribution
  • Live events
  • Linear channel playout

Learn more about AWS MediaLive »

AWS product comparisons

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