is prores proxy quality is better or equal to h264 (15mbps settings) please?

I use an old version of PPro ( CS6) which is so old it isn't really great to use except for old full HD formats ( codecs, etc. ) So I also use Resolve now. The basics of proxy stuff is the same for your new version of PPro and other editing programs that are current.

Let's say my computer for editing is only good to view and export full HD. I don't have HDR or 4k monitors. I will never export 4k in my lifetime cause I don't have to.

So, let's say you are me and you put 4k Slog into machine. I make proxy ( called optimized in resolve) of DNxHD 1080p or something like that with a PC. I could use prores but don't.

Why ?

Cause my machine ( when doing effects and tracking masks and stablizing etc. ) starts to struggle with 4k stuff. It slows down too much. So I make the proxy. Now it's good cause it's only full HD now.

Since I export full HD I do in fact USE the proxies when I export. It's faster and looks good and I'm happy.

So, it depends on what you're doing and your source, your system power, and your export choice when to use proxies or not for export.

If you are putting some junk long GOP in 4k as your source you'd be silly not to use the proxy in your exports cause you don't gain a thing by that if you export the same dimensions as your proxy.

It's like you put junk in, make it better to edit on your system, and then just rely on some magic export that goes back to the junk and tries to make a beautiful product ( in most cases here it will be for youtube ).

good luck !

🙂

It's primarily how they play back that matters for proxies ... as you don't normally use them for "output" or export of any kind.

And there, ProRes as an intraframe codec will play back much smoother than an H.264, which is smaller file size but as it's long-GOP it forces the CPU/RAM to work a LOT harder for every frame. 

Many users run with ProRes proxy as it does well enough visually and plays back great. Try it. Try the LT. Use which one works adequately for you.

Neil