Learn · encode paths
VideoToolbox vs software x264: same file, different worlds.
On M2 Max, VT and libx264 were in the same ~100 s band for a 20-minute source. On a 0.5 vCPU container, libx264 alone took 2371 s. Linux CF cannot offer VideoToolbox at all.
| Step | M2 Max wall | Docker CF-shape | CF $ (rate-card) |
|---|---|---|---|
| VideoToolbox H.264 8 Mbps (20 min src) | 95.1 s | N/A on CF Linux | - |
| libx264 medium CRF23 | 102.8 s | 2371.1 s | ~$0.0474 |
Canonical: VideoToolbox vs cloud encode.
Buyer implication: encode APIs that declare VT intent need Apple Silicon runners.
Join the free buyer beta
Developers and buyers use available beta capacity without charges. Capacity is limited and there is no production SLA.
Create free beta accountOne RenderMac account can use both dashboards. See the unpaid beta terms.