How to Convert AVI Video to Video or Audio

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Turning AVI videos into other formats may seem like a difficult task, but with the right free video converter, anyone can do it!

Whether you're aiming to optimize video playback, reduce file sizes, or extract audio tracks for your music collection, knowing how to convert AVI to MP4 or MP3 format on your PC is a valuable skill.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of transforming AVI videos using Icecream Video Converter.

Introducing Formats

For those less familiar with video and audio file types, let us learn about the primary formats discussed in this article - MP4 and MP3.

What is an MP4 file?

An MP4 file, short for MPEG-4 Part 14, is a multimedia container format commonly used to store audio and video streams, as well as subtitles and still images. It was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group and is one of the most widely used formats for sharing content.

MP4 extension is known for its versatility and compatibility across different devices, making it popular for streaming videos online and distributing clips.

Why convert AVI to MP4?

  • Compatibility. Unlike AVI, which may not be supported on all platforms, MP4 ensures your videos can be played smoothly across smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs without needing additional codecs.
  • Compression Efficiency. MP4 typically uses more advanced compression algorithms than AVI, resulting in smaller file sizes while maintaining good video quality.
  • Streaming and Online Sharing. MP4 is the preferred format for streaming videos online on platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and social media networks.
  • Post-Production. Many video editing software programs support MP4 natively and offer more options compared to AVI.

What is an MP3 file?

MP3, short for MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3, is a digital format that revolutionized the way music files are stored and distributed. It's a popular compression extension, developed by the MPEG.

These files use a lossy compression technique that reduces the size significantly while preserving a reasonable level of quality. The format became widely adopted in the late 1990s and early 2000s due to its ability to compress audio files to roughly one-tenth of their original size without significant loss of perceptible quality.

Today, MP3 remains one of the most common formats for audio, even as newer extensions like AAC have gained popularity.

Why convert AVI to MP3?

  • Audio Extraction. Converting video to audio allows you to extract just the music portion, which is useful for creating podcasts, tracks, or voice recordings.
  • Reduced File Size. MP3 files are significantly smaller in size compared to AVI because they are specifically designed for compressing audio data while maintaining acceptable sound quality.
  • Editing and Production. MP3s are widely supported by audio editing software, offering more flexibility in mixing and enhancing tracks.
  • Versatility. MP3 is not only suitable for music but also for various types of audio content such as lectures, interviews, audiobooks, and more. Using video to MP3 converter expands the usability of your multimedia content by making it accessible in audio-only formats.

How to convert AVI video to MP4 format

1. Download and install the program

First off, download the best free video converter for Windows from our website. Double click on the saved file to initiate the installation. You can fully rely on the wizard’s guidelines to complete the process successfully. Once it’s done, launch the application.

2. Add AVI file

Click the "Add file" button to open the explorer and find the video(s). Alternatively, you can select all the files and drop them directly to the program's interface.

When the clips are imported to the AVI to MP4 converter, feel free to proceed with the next step.

3. Configure the output file settings

  • Select Output Format. Choose "MP4" from the "Convert To" menu. Alternatively, you can pick one of the AVI to MP4 presets available in the bottom left corner of the video conversion software.
  • Adjust Quality. Customize it by selecting "High" for optimal balance between quality and file size. Lower quality settings decrease file size but may reduce video clarity.
  • Set Video Resolution. Pick your preferred resolution from the dropdown menu. You can apply the settings to all files in the video to MP4 converter by selecting a preset.
  • Utilize Additional Features. The software includes extra tools such as trimming, adding SRT subtitles, and the option to include text or image watermarks, enhancing your media files with added functionality.

4. Start AVI conversion

Press the "Convert" button in the right to the file to transform a single video.

The video format converter supports batch processing, allowing you to queue multiple files. Begin by importing your videos, adjust the settings as needed, and then hit the "Convert" button located at the bottom right.

During the process, you'll see progress bars and status messages for each item. If necessary, you can stop the conversion at any time by clicking the "Pause" button next to the respective item. Typically, short videos are converted within 10-30 seconds.

How to convert AVI video to MP3

The overall process resembles the previous guide, with a few distinctions. We'll omit the initial step of downloading and installing software, assuming you already have a video to MP3 converter installed on your device.

1. Add your AVI files

Import files individually from your folders or select all at once and drag them into the video to audio converter.

2. Select the format

Choose the MP3 format from the "Convert to" menu or use one of the presets available.

3. Additional settings

Choosing the audio quality is not an option during AVI to MP3 transformation, as the free video converter will utilize the original data. However, when selecting a preset, you can specify a bitrate (kbps) for the output data.

4. Start the conversion

Once all is set, simply press one of the "Convert" buttons available to launch the process. After a short wait, all the files will be converted and are ready to be used.

Other formats supported

Icecream Video Converter also works with a variety of other formats, including MOV, MKV, WEBM, MPEG, WAV, M4A, and WMA. These formats cater to diverse user needs and ensure compatibility with various media players and devices. Find more information in the table below.

FormatFull Format NameDeveloperCodecsOriginal Purpose of the Format
MOVQuickTime MovieAppleMPEG-4, H.264, H.263, etcMultimedia development (animation, 3D, video, etc)
MKVMatroska Multimedia ContainerCoreCodec, Inc.AnyMultimedia playback
WEBMWebMGoogleVP8, VP9, Opus, VorbisWeb video streaming
MPEGMoving Picture Experts GroupISO/IECMPEG-1, MPEG-2Audio and Video Compression
WAVWaveform Audio File FormatIBM and MicrosoftPCM, DPCM, ADPCMHigh-quality audio storage
M4AMPEG-4 Audio LayerAppleAAC, ALACHigh-quality audio storage with smaller file size
WMAWindows Media AudioMicrosoftWMA, WMA Pro, WMA Lossless, WMA VoiceHigh-quality audio for Windows Media Player

How to convert AVI to MP4 and MP3 - Conclusion

Converting AVI to MP4 and MP3 formats shouldn't be difficult! With the Icecream Video Converter, you can transform your AVI files into universally accepted formats, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

Whether you're a videography enthusiast or just need to make a file compatible, this free video converter for Windows has got you covered!

Alexandra Meyer

Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps

With experience spanning over several years, Alexandra Meyer holds the esteemed position of editor-in-chief at Icecream Apps. Originally involved in the website's establishment in 2014, Alexandra now ensures the maintenance of the company's exceptional content standards across their various projects. Specializing in technology, software, online services, and human resources, she has extensively written and edited numerous articles on these subjects.
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