A video file has two parts: the container, which is the format name you see at the end (.mp4, .mkv, .webm), and the codecs inside it that actually compress the picture and sound. Players need to understand both. Converting rewrites the video into a container and codec combination your device or website supports.
Which format should I choose?
MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio plays on practically every phone, computer, TV, browser and editing program. When in doubt, choose MP4.
WebM uses the open VP9 video codec with Opus audio. It is designed for the web and plays in all current browsers, which makes it a good choice for embedding on a site. VP9 encodes more slowly than H.264, so WebM conversions take longer.
MOV is Apple's format, used by QuickTime and Final Cut; here it gets H.264 and AAC, like MP4. MKV is a flexible container popular for archiving, also with H.264 and AAC. AVI is an older container, written with MPEG-4 video and MP3 audio for the legacy players and devices that ask for it.
Does converting reduce quality?
Converting re-encodes the video, and every encode with a lossy codec loses a little detail. The default settings aim for a result that looks the same as the source at normal viewing, while the file size may go up or down. If the goal is a smaller file rather than a different format, use Compress Video, which gives you direct control.
Where are my files processed?
Conversion runs on our server. Your video is uploaded over an encrypted connection, processed in Germany and deleted automatically within two hours.
What are the limits and how long does it take?
Video is a heavy tool. The free tier covers 3 videos per day without an account and 5 with a free account, up to 50 MB each; Pro takes files up to 500 MB with no daily cap, and a one-off large job can be paid with a credit. Conversion time depends on length and resolution. If you are converting an archive of old AVI files, Pro or credits let you run them as one batch while you do something else.
How to convert a video
- Drop your video onto the drop zone.
- Choose the output format.
- Click Convert and wait for the encode.
- Download the converted video.
FAQ
Which format works on an iPhone?
MP4 with H.264 plays natively. MOV works too.
Why won't my MKV play on my TV?
Many TVs support MKV as a container but not every codec inside it. Converting to MP4 usually solves it.
Can I convert to MP3?
Yes, but that is audio only. Use MP4 to MP3 or Extract Audio.
Can I convert iPhone MOV files to MP4?
Yes. MOV to MP4 is a shortcut for exactly that.