LUFS vs Peak Volume

Last Updated: June 2026

Peak volume shows the loudest instant in an audio file. LUFS shows how loud the audio feels over time. This difference matters because a file can peak very high but still sound quiet overall.

Why Peak Volume Is Not Enough

If you only raise peak volume, you may create clipping without making the whole video feel much louder. A file can look loud on a meter but still feel weak to listeners.

Why LUFS Works Better

LUFS targets perceived loudness. That helps make MP4 audio more consistent for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and mobile playback.

Related: How to Make Video Audio Louder and MP4 Loudness Normalization Guide.