Devices, systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with encoding image data are described. In one embodiment, a method includes determining, using at least hardware, a first cost based on a first prediction mode of a macroblock of image data and determining a second cost based on a second prediction mode of the macro-block. Upon determining the first cost is less than the second cost, the method determines a third cost based on a third prediction mode of the macro-block. Upon determining the third cost is less than the first cost, the method determines a fourth cost based on a fourth prediction mode of the macro-block. Upon determining the third cost is less than or equal to the fourth cost, the method assigns the third prediction mode to the macro-block.