How to Convert MP4 Files on PC and Online
MP4 is a versatile multimedia format. While being compatible with most players, MP4 files may need transformation for various purposes – from sharing to compatibility.
Whether you need to convert MP4 video for a specific device, platform, or quality enhancement, you have to choose the right tools.
Top video converters: comparison table
| Program | Platform | Intuitive interface | Output formats | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Icecream Video Converter |
Windows
|
Yes
|
MOV, AVI, WebM, MKV, MPEG, MP3, and WAV
|
5.0 |
| VLC Media Player |
Windows
MacOS
Linux
iOS
Android
|
No
|
WebM, OGG, TS, MP3, ASF, FLAC, and CD
|
4.0 |
| CloudConvert |
Online
|
Yes
|
FLV, MOV, AVI, MKV, WMV GIF, MP3, WAV, AAC, AIFF, FLAC, and M4A
|
4.0 |
| FreeConvert |
Online
|
Yes
|
3GP, AVI, FLV, MKV, MOV, MP4, OGV, WebM, WMV, AAC, AIFF, ALAC, AMR, FLAC, M4A, MP3, OGG, WAV, and WMA
|
4.5 |
MP4, which stands for MPEG-4 Part 14, is a widely used digital format for storing video, audio, subtitles, and other data.
In this article, we explore 4 simple but effective video converters and provide you with comprehensive instructions. Being able to convert video files will allow you to share them with anyone regardless of their device or platform.
How we picked tools to convert MP4
Choosing the right MP4 converter is a crucial step for successful conversion. The key factors that guided our choice were:
- Supported formats. We checked the output extensions of the service and made sure it functions with the most popular file types.
- Ease of use. We looked for a video converter with an intuitive design that can help save your time.
- Conversion speed. Faster conversion times are very important, especially when dealing with large items.
Method 1. Icecream Video Converter
Icecream Video Converter is a handy tool for Windows that lets you switch your footage and audio between lots of formats. It’s perfect when you want to transform MP4 files fast, and honestly, it couldn’t be simpler.
How to convert MP4 video with Icecream Video Converter
- Download free video converter for PC and install it onto your computer.
- Hit the "Add File" button to pick your clips, or drag and drop them right into the utility.
- Pick your desired extension from the dropdown menu next to each.
- If you want, trim your visual, add subtitles or a watermark, and choose the quality and resolution you like.
- Set where you want the output to go, then tap "Convert".
Pros:
- Easy to use. The interface is straightforward, so you’ll find your way around and convert video files with zero hassle.
- Fast. It gets the job done quickly, even if you’re processing a bunch at once.
- Supports tons of formats. MP4, AVI, MOV, MP3, WAV - pretty much all the popular ones are covered.
- Keeps your quality. Your clips look as sharp - no weird or fuzzy details.
- Editing tools. Need to trim? No problem. Basic editing instruments are built right in.
- Preview feature. Check your result, so there are no surprises.
- Batch operation. Switch a whole folder of MP4s in one go, instead of slogging through them one by one.
If you want to quickly change video format without messing with the quality, Icecream Video Converter is a solid pick. It makes organizing your library a breeze - a few clicks, and you’re done.
Method 2. VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player isn’t just for watching clips - it’s a free, open-source tool that supports clip conversion. It works on about any device: Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android.
How to use VLC Media Player as a converter
- Download and install VLC Media Player onto your computer.
- Select "Convert/Save" from the "Media" dropdown menu.
- Click "Add" and opt for the MP4 file you need.
- Hit "Convert/Save" at the bottom of the window.
- Select the desired output extension and a destination folder, then press "Start" to begin MP4 conversion.
Pros:
- Open-source. VLC is totally free and you can tweak it however you want.
- Format compatibility. The media player can play different multimedia files, allowing you to convert MP4 to WAV, MP3, WebM, and other types.
- Presets. There are plenty of built-in profiles, so you can easily prep your footage for your phone, tablet, or social media.
Cons:
- Complex. The interface isn’t exactly user-friendly. If you’re not tech-savvy, it might feel a bit overwhelming.
Bottom line: VLC Media Player is a powerhouse when it comes to playing and converting MP4 files. You get tons of extension options and it doesn’t cost a thing. Still, the clunky UI can be a headache, especially if you’re new to the sphere.
MP4 is commonly used for sharing visuals over social media due to its efficient compression and compatibility with streaming protocols.
Method 3. CloudConvert
CloudConvert is an online file platform that can be exploited to change MP4 video format. It's a convenient way to quickly and easily modify footage without having to install any software.
How to convert MP4 online on CloudConvert website
- Go to the CloudConvert website.
- Click "Select File" to choose the MP4.
- Select the output format from the list of available ones.
- Press the "Convert" button.
- Hit "Download" to save the result to your device.
Pros:
- Format compatibility. The utility supports various extensions, including documents, images, audio, visuals, and more.
- Cloud-based. The service operates online, allowing to employ it on any device with internet access, eliminating the need to install software.
- Simple interface. The free video converter offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both beginners and pros.
- Cloud storage. The platform directly integrates with cloud storages like Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox.
Cons:
- Conversion restrictions. The free version allows up to 25 operations per day. For more frequent tasks a paid subscription is required.
Overall, CloudConvert is a great option for quickly converting video files without any additional instruments. However, it also comes with considerations related to limitations and potential costs you should keep in mind.
Conversion can be lossy and lossless. The first one reduces size by sacrificing its quality. The second maintains the quality but may result in larger materials.
Method 4. FreeConvert
FreeConvert provides a wide range of free utensils, and you don’t have to pay a thing to get started. If you want your MP4s to play nice with pretty much any device, this instrument gets the job done.
How to change video format with the help of FreeConvert
- Open the FreeConvert website.
- Click the "Choose Files" button and select your MP4 video.
- Pick the desired extension for each element from the drop-down menu.
- Change optional settings like codec or frame rate if needed.
- Press "Convert" and download the output to your desired location.
Pros:
- Accessible. You can utilize it on any device with internet - desktop, laptop, tablet, or your phone.
- Bulk processing. You can convert multiple MP4 files online simultaneously to save time when dealing with large collections.
- User-friendly. The interface is simple, so you don’t have to be a tech expert to figure it out.
Cons:
- Size restrictions. Free subscribers can only turn files up to 1GB. Anything bigger, you’ll need to pay.
- Batch cap. The free version doesn't allow to switch more than 5 clips at a time.
Overall, FreeConvert is a great tool for converting your MP4 into other extensions with minimal effort. However, consider the limitations you might have.
Popular output formats
There are lots of extensions out there, and each one does something a little different. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick the right type.
MKV (Matroska)
Pros:
- Delivers sharp visuals and crisp sound.
- Lets you pack in multiple subtitle and tracks.
- Great for storing high-def content.
Cons:
- Some older devices and media players just don’t play nice with MKV.
AVI (Audio Video Interleave)
Pros:
- Widely compatible with various platforms.
- Can handle a mix of codecs.
Cons:
- Tends to eat up more storage than newer formats.
- Not the best for HD content.
WMV (Windows Media Video)
Pros:
- Made by Microsoft, so it fits right in with Windows systems.
- Compresses files well without totally killing the fidelity.
Cons:
- Outside the Windows world, support drops off.
- Sometimes that reduction means you lose a bit of sharpness.
MOV (QuickTime)
Pros:
- Apple’s own, so it works beautifully on Macs and iOS devices.
- High-quality sequences.
Cons:
- If you’re not using Apple gear, it’s hit or miss.
- Files can get pretty big.
FLV (Flash Video)
Pros:
- Built for web streaming - ideal for online footage.
- Keeps sizes small without wrecking the appearance.
Cons:
- Flash is fading fast, so FLV isn’t as common anymore.
- Modern devices without Flash can’t play these materials.
WebM
Pros:
- Open-source and designed for the web.
- Packs HD films into small, efficient ones.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have the same level of support as bigger formats.
- Compatibility can be spotty on some platforms.
MP3
Pros:
- Straightforward to manage, create, and convert.
- At higher bit rates, sound quality works for most casual listening.
Cons:
- Not the best pick for high-res or professional sound projects.
OGG (Ogg Vorbis)
Pros:
- Open-source and free format, making it a cost-effective choice.
- High-quality audio compression without significant loss.
Cons:
- Hardware support isn’t as strong as MP3 or AAC.
- You might need extra software to play OGG on certain services.
AAC (Advanced Audio Codec)
Pros:
- Provides better audio quality than MP3 at similar bit rates.
- Widely supported on a variety of devices and platforms, especially in mobile devices.
Cons:
- May require licensing for certain uses in commercial environments.
FAQ
- Can I convert MP4 video to audio?
- Absolutely. You can pull the sound from a clip and turn it into a sound clip.
- Is it possible to turn an MP4 into a GIF?
- Yep, it's handy when you want short, looping animations.
- How do I transform files without losing subtitles?
- Just pick an output extension that keeps captions, like MKV, AVI, WMV, or MOV, and verify you set it up right before converting.
- Can I convert MP4 video to play on specific devices?
- For sure. Most tools come with presets for different devices, so your sequence works perfectly wherever you want.
How to Convert MP4: Conclusion
In this comprehensive guide, we've explored the services for converting MP4 files with precision and ease. The most important points to remember are to use a reliable option and select an appropriate output format.
Overall, transforming MP4 is relatively simple and requires no specialized knowledge or skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to simply change your material into any extension you need without any difficulty.
Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps
