Quick answer: To send a large MXF file, upload it to Share Large Video Files (up to 20 GB, no account) and share the download link: the file arrives unchanged. A 1-minute 4K XAVC clip is about 2.4 GB, more than most email providers accept.
What is a MXF file?
MXF is a broadcast-standard container used by professional cameras and edit systems. Sony XDCAM and XAVC cameras, Canon Cinema EOS and XF cameras, Panasonic P2 cameras and Avid Media Composer (for DNxHD and DNxHR media) all write MXF.
The file size depends on the codec inside. Broadcast codecs such as XDCAM HD422 run at 50 Mbps, while XAVC Intra and DNxHR HQX at 4K run at several hundred Mbps. Cameras also write MXF into a card folder structure that editing software expects to see intact.
Extensions: .mxf.
How big are MXF files?
| File | Typical size |
|---|---|
| 1 minute of XDCAM HD422 at 50 Mbps | about 375 MB |
| 1 minute of 4K XAVC Intra (around 300 to 600 Mbps) | roughly 2.2 to 4.5 GB |
| 1 minute of 1080p DNxHD 145 (Avid) | about 1.1 GB |
| A full 128 GB camera card | up to about 128 GB |
Which apps can send one?
Can you send a 1-minute 4K XAVC clip (about 2.4 GB) as an attachment?
| App | Limit | Fits? |
|---|---|---|
| Gmail | 25 MB per email | No, send a link |
| Outlook.com | 20 to 25 MB per email | No, send a link |
| WhatsApp (document) | 2 GB per file | No, send a link |
| Telegram | 2 GB per file | No, send a link |
| Facebook Messenger | 100 MB per file | No, send a link |
| Discord (free) | 20 MB per file | No, send a link |
| Slack | 1 GB per file | No, send a link |
| WeTransfer (free) | 3 GB per transfer | Yes |
| Share Large Video Files | 20 GB per transfer | Send the link anywhere |
Limits from our file size limits by app table, checked against each service's help pages.
How to send MXF files without changing them
- Open Share Large Video Files in any browser and choose Get a link (or Send by email).
- Drop MXF files on the upload box, or pick a whole folder. Up to 20 GB and 1000 files per transfer.
- Optional: add a password, a download limit or an expiry under More options.
- Copy the link (or show the QR code) and send it by chat or email. The recipient downloads the original file, byte for byte.
Tips for sending MXF files
- Send the complete card structure (for example Sony's XDROOT or Panasonic's CONTENTS folder), not just the loose .mxf files.
- Avid media often comes as separate MXF files for video and each audio channel. Send the whole folder.
- Zip the card folder with no compression so the structure arrives exactly as recorded.
- Tell the recipient which camera and codec you used, so they can pick the right import option.
How to open a MXF file
Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Avid Media Composer and Final Cut Pro (with Sony or Canon plug-ins where needed) open most MXF files on Windows and Mac. VLC plays many MXF files for a quick look. Sony Catalyst Browse and Canon XF Utility are free viewers. Phones generally cannot open MXF.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my MXF clip have no sound when opened alone?
Some systems, notably Avid and Panasonic P2, store audio in separate MXF files. Sending the whole folder keeps picture and sound together.
Can I play MXF files without editing software?
Often yes, with VLC or a free camera utility such as Sony Catalyst Browse. Some codecs still need an editor like Resolve.
Is it enough to send just the .mxf files from a camera card?
Not always. Editing apps use the card's folder and metadata files to rebuild spanned clips, so send the full card structure.
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