Video format
What is an RM file?
An RM file is RealNetworks’ streaming video format from the dial-up era. RealNetworks launched RealVideo in 1997; RealPlayer streamed much of the early web’s video.
By Suprabhat Updated How we write these
When to use RM
Convert RM and RMVB files to MP4 so old recordings stay playable.
It is best for nothing today; convert old downloads and archives, and it opens on VLC and RealPlayer; nothing modern supports it.
How to open it: VLC plays most RealMedia files.
| Full name | RealMedia |
|---|---|
| Extensions | .rm, .rmvb, .rv |
| MIME type | application/vnd.rn-realmedia |
| Introduced | 1997 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Usually contains | RealVideo with RealAudio (Cook) audio |
| Support | Legacy format |
| Typical size | Small, and low quality by modern standards |
Good at
- Very small files for dial-up connections
Not so good at
- Low quality
- Dead ecosystem: no browser, phone or editor plays it
The common mistake
RMVB files use variable bitrate and play at the wrong speed in some tools; converting gives a normal, steady MP4.
Questions
What is an RM file?
RM (RealMedia) is RealNetworks’ streaming video format from the dial-up era. RealNetworks launched RealVideo in 1997; RealPlayer streamed much of the early web’s video.
How do I open an RM file?
VLC plays most RealMedia files.
How do I convert RM to another format?
Pick the target on this page, or open the Video Converter, drop the RM file and choose a format. It converts in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.