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Digital technology has changed the way we consume media, allowing us to listen to music, view images, and watch videos on mobile devices. However, with the media boom came a maze of different file formats. To keep your video collection in a single video format you need to use a video converter.
A video converter will help you to take a file of a specific format and codec and change it into a format and codec that suits you, or more importantly your device. The best video converter can take obscure formats or codecs and convert them into something more manageable. What’s more, some of the leading suites also come with added features, such as editing tools and the ability to rip from DVD or directly from websites or services.
We have done the heavy lifting of finding that best video converter currently available in 2019, so all you have to do is decide which of the following is best for you.
1. HandBrake – best free video converter
When looking for a video file converter, we tried to judge programs on their overall appeal, such as features, design, whether it’s free, and other factors. HandBrake managed to score highly in most departments and represents something of a sweet spot.
In terms of ease of use and feature set, HandBrake is excellent. The open source video converter is a brilliant choice for beginners as it is simple to quickly rip a DVD and transcode it into formats to fit any device. Video files are transcoded into MP4 and MKV formats, and advanced users will be happy to see features such as video and audio codec customization, chapter splits, and subtitles.
While we had no problems with the general UI, some people may find HandBrake confusing at first. Some conversions dropped midway through; however, it was not a deal breaker as we loved the general use of the program, but it is something worth considering.
OS: Windows 7, 8.1, 10
Licensing: Open-source
File Size: 11.2 MB
Our Rating: 7 / 10
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2. DVDVideoSoft Free Studio
DVDVideoSoft Free Studio is a popular and dynamic suite of conversion programs covering a breadth of media tools. A one-stop shop for audio and video converter software, the program can also download videos and has an in-built online video converter. For example, the YouTube converter lets you convert a YouTube video to audio in a variety of formats.
Modern in design, DVDVideoSoft Free Studio is very easy to use and understand. This is highlighted by the numerous device presets. Instead of understanding what codec you need, it is possible to simply select the output device at which the files are targeted. This is an ideal solution for beginners who may not know much about file formats.
While the program itself is easy to use, the way each conversion tool is presented is not. The video converters arrive like applets within the overall suite, and it is possible to just download some or all of these modules. That is a confusing way of packaging the tools (if you want the full suite look for the “Free Studio” download). Also, we don’t like it when companies try to install additional software as an offer during a download. We understand why it happens, but it is annoying. DVDVideoSoft recommends extraneous software, so don’t rush through the setup process unless you want unwanted programs on your PC.
OS: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10
Licensing: Freeware
File Size: 57.2 MB
Our Rating: 9 / 10
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3. Freemake Video Converter – the easiest video converter out there
Freemake is a good choice as a quick and easy all-in-one media converter that can manage video, audio, and image files in numerous formats and convert them into other formats of various codecs. Like DVDVideoSoft, Freemake Video Converter contains easy-to-use device presets to help users who may not have knowledge of which formats are best.
For example, importing content from one format to a device like an iPhone is as easy as selecting said device in the menu. The interface of the Freemake app is universal and very easy to use, simplifying conversions and allowing for faster processing. Among the notable features included for video conversions are subtitle support, removal of black bars, and DVD menus.
Freemake Video Converter is a free resource, but users must make a donation to unlock some of the core features mentioned above. Also interesting is that the developer takes the same approach as DVDVideoSoft. This means that there are several conversion tools that are separated. However, unlike DVDVideoSoft, there is no file to download the whole suite, meaning you will need to download multiple individual apps.
OS: Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10
Licensing: Freeware
File Size: 34.9 MB
Our Rating:7 / 10
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4. Free HD Video Converter Factory
For a simpler and completely free video converter that specifically focuses on video conversion, look no further than the aptly titled Free HD Video Converter Factory. Like other video converter software on this list, the service allows for conversions in a wide array of video and audio formats and codecs, and again those much-welcomed device previews are available.
Customizing conversions is one of the strong points of Free HD Video Converter Factory. Among the video converter tools at your disposal is the ability to set frame rates, sample rates, customize encoders, and change audio channel settings. All in all, it’s an impressive, functional suite and the addition of a video downloader to take content from the web is a good thing.
Unlike all the free video converters on this list, Free HD Video Converter Factory has a premium version (HD Video Converter Factory Pro) that locks some features behind a paywall. That’s fine, except one of the features is arguably very important to many users. Specifically, in the free version there is a limit of up to 720 HD for conversions. If you want 4K or even 1080 Full HD, you will have to pay for it.
OS: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10
Licensing: Freemium, PRO version – $29.95
File Size: 48 MB
Our Rating:7 / 10
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5. Free Video Converter by Wondershare – best paid video converter for both Windows and MacOS
Free Video Converter by Wondershare is among the most feature-rich video converters available and also among the most thorough in terms of format support. Laden with features, tools available on the program include the ability to configure the quality of encoding output, subtitles, and customizations.
Two standout features involve video management. The first is an editing suite that lets you tweak video directly within the Free Video Converter by Wondershare, while the second is a handy tool for merging video files together. With the built-in media player, you can also use the app for playing audio and videos, although this is admittedly a gimmick as most people would use a dedicated media player.
Sadly, Free Video Converter by Wondershare is a little more difficult to use than most other video converters on this list because the free experience lacks device presets. This essentially means that you will have to know which formats you want to use, which is hardly ideal for beginners.
OS: Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, Mac OS X 10.14 or lower
Licensing: Freemium, PRO version – starts from $9.95/month
File Size: 319 MB
Our Rating:7 / 10
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There are so many different devices and video players and editors available these days and plenty of them have lists of supported video and audio formats and codecs. Therefore, knowing which video converter software is reliable can be very helpful. Just make sure you familiarize yourself with the comparison of the video converters to make sure your pick is the best. Make sure the right format and codec is selected, and you’re all set! There is also a method to convert videos with Google Drive for free for those who don’t feel like downloading something.
iDealshare VideoGo also helps to convert all kinds of video and audio files like MP4, RM, VCD Video, WMV, Xvid Video, WebM Video, ProRes Video, OGV Video, FLV, SWF, OPUS, Vorbis, AAC, AC3, DTS, ALAC, OGG, OGA, MP3, WAV, FLAC, WMA, XWM, 3GA, M4A, M4B, MKA, RA, RAM, APE, AU, AUD, AIFF etc