How to Convert AVI to MPEG4: A Comprehensive Guide
AVI (Audio Video Interleave) and MPEG4 (Moving Picture Experts Group 4) are both popular video container formats, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. AVI is an older format known for its high compatibility, but it often results in larger file sizes. MPEG4, on the other hand, offers better compression and smaller file sizes while maintaining good video quality. This makes MPEG4 more suitable for online sharing, streaming, and storage on devices with limited space.
If you have a collection of AVI videos and want to enjoy them on various devices, upload them to video-sharing platforms, or simply save storage space, converting them to MPEG4 is a wise decision. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of converting AVI to MPEG4 using different methods, including free software and online converters, along with detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips.
Why Convert AVI to MPEG4?
Before diving into the conversion process, let’s understand the key reasons why you might want to convert AVI to MPEG4:
* **Smaller File Size:** MPEG4 offers better compression than AVI, resulting in significantly smaller file sizes without substantial loss of video quality. This is crucial for saving storage space on your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
* **Improved Compatibility:** While AVI enjoys wide compatibility, MPEG4 is more universally supported across various devices, operating systems, and media players. Converting to MPEG4 ensures your videos can be played virtually anywhere.
* **Easier Online Sharing:** Many video-sharing platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and social media sites prefer MPEG4 due to its efficient compression. Converting to MPEG4 makes uploading and sharing your videos online much smoother.
* **Better Streaming Performance:** MPEG4’s efficient compression makes it ideal for streaming videos over the internet. You can enjoy smoother playback and reduced buffering with MPEG4 videos.
* **Archiving and Storage:** For long-term storage, MPEG4’s smaller file size helps you save valuable storage space on your hard drive or cloud storage.
Methods for Converting AVI to MPEG4
There are several methods you can use to convert AVI to MPEG4, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. We’ll explore the most popular and effective methods:
1. **Using VLC Media Player (Free and Open-Source)**
2. **Using HandBrake (Free and Open-Source)**
3. **Using Freemake Video Converter (Free with Limitations)**
4. **Using Online Video Converters (Web-Based)**
5. **Using Dedicated Video Converter Software (Paid Options)**
Let’s delve into each method with step-by-step instructions.
1. Converting AVI to MPEG4 using VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a versatile, free, and open-source media player that supports a wide range of video and audio formats. It also has a built-in video conversion feature, making it a convenient option for converting AVI to MPEG4 without installing any additional software.
**Steps:**
1. **Download and Install VLC Media Player:** If you don’t already have it, download VLC Media Player from the official website ([https://www.videolan.org/vlc/](https://www.videolan.org/vlc/)) and install it on your computer. The installation process is straightforward; just follow the on-screen instructions.
2. **Open VLC Media Player:** Once installed, launch VLC Media Player.
3. **Navigate to the Convert/Save Option:** In the VLC menu, click on “Media” and then select “Convert / Save…” (or press Ctrl+R).
4. **Add the AVI File:** In the “Open Media” window, click the “Add…” button to browse your computer and select the AVI file you want to convert. Once you’ve selected the file, click “Open.”
5. **Click Convert/Save:** After adding the AVI file, click the “Convert / Save” button at the bottom of the “Open Media” window.
6. **Choose the MPEG4 Profile:** In the “Convert” window, under the “Settings” section, find the “Profile” dropdown menu. Select a profile that corresponds to MPEG4. A good option is often labeled something like “Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4)”. H.264 is the video codec commonly used within MPEG4 containers. You might also see options like “Video – H.265 + MP3 (MP4)” which uses the newer H.265 codec for potentially even better compression, but it might not be as universally supported as H.264.
7. **Customize Conversion Settings (Optional):** If you want to fine-tune the conversion settings, click the wrench icon next to the profile dropdown menu. This will open the “Profile edition” window. Here, you can adjust video codec, resolution, bitrate, frame rate, audio codec, and other advanced settings. For basic conversion, the default settings are usually sufficient.
* **Video Codec:** Make sure it’s set to H.264 or H.265.
* **Resolution:** Choose the resolution you want for the output video. Lowering the resolution will reduce the file size.
* **Bitrate:** The bitrate determines the video quality. Higher bitrate means better quality but larger file size. Experiment to find a good balance.
* **Frame Rate:** The frame rate determines how smooth the video appears. Keep it the same as the original AVI file or choose a standard frame rate like 24fps or 30fps.
* **Audio Codec:** AAC is a good choice for audio codec.
* **Bitrate (Audio):** 128kbps is a decent bitrate for audio.
8. **Choose Destination File:** Click the “Browse” button to select the destination folder and file name for the converted MPEG4 file. Make sure to add the “.mp4” extension to the file name.
9. **Start the Conversion:** Once you’ve chosen the profile and destination file, click the “Start” button to begin the conversion process. A progress bar will appear in the main VLC window indicating the status of the conversion. The time it takes to convert will depend on the size of the AVI file and your computer’s processing power.
10. **Verify the Converted File:** After the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder you specified and play the converted MPEG4 file to ensure it plays correctly and the video quality is satisfactory.
**Pros of using VLC:**
* Free and open-source
* No watermarks or limitations
* Supports a wide range of formats
* Available on multiple platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux)
**Cons of using VLC:**
* The conversion interface can be a bit confusing for beginners.
* Limited advanced settings compared to dedicated video converters.
2. Converting AVI to MPEG4 using HandBrake
HandBrake is another popular free and open-source video transcoder that’s known for its powerful features and ease of use. It’s a great choice for converting AVI to MPEG4 with fine-grained control over the output settings.
**Steps:**
1. **Download and Install HandBrake:** Download HandBrake from the official website ([https://handbrake.fr/](https://handbrake.fr/)) and install it on your computer. The installation process is straightforward.
2. **Open HandBrake:** Launch HandBrake.
3. **Select the AVI File:** In the HandBrake window, you’ll be prompted to select a source file. Click on “File” and browse to the location of your AVI file. Select the file and click “Open.”
4. **Choose a Preset:** HandBrake offers a variety of presets optimized for different devices and video qualities. For a basic MPEG4 conversion, you can choose a preset like “Fast 1080p30” or “Fast 720p30”. These presets will automatically configure the video and audio settings for a good balance between quality and file size. You can find the presets in the right-hand pane of the HandBrake window. For more advanced control, you can create custom presets.
5. **Adjust Output Settings (Optional):**
* **Container:** Ensure the “Container” is set to “MP4”.
* **Video Codec:** Make sure the “Video Codec” is set to H.264 (x264) or H.265 (x265). H.264 is generally recommended for broader compatibility.
* **Frame Rate (FPS):** You can keep the frame rate the same as the source or choose a different frame rate. Common frame rates include 24fps, 25fps, and 30fps. If you are unsure, select “Same as source”.
* **Constant Quality (RF):** HandBrake uses Constant Quality (RF) as the default encoding method, which adjusts the bitrate dynamically to maintain a consistent quality level throughout the video. Lower RF values result in higher quality but larger file sizes. A value between 18 and 22 is generally recommended for H.264, and 20-24 for H.265. The lower the number the better the quality.
* **Resolution:** Under the “Dimensions” tab, you can adjust the video resolution. You can choose a preset resolution or enter custom values.
* **Filters:** The “Filters” tab allows you to apply various filters to the video, such as deinterlacing, denoise, and sharpening. These can be useful for improving the quality of older or low-quality videos.
6. **Audio Settings:** Under the “Audio” tab, you can configure the audio settings.
* **Codec:** AAC (Advanced Audio Coding) is a good choice for audio codec.
* **Bitrate:** 128kbps or 160kbps is a decent bitrate for audio.
* **Mixdown:** Choose the appropriate mixdown option (e.g., Stereo, 5.1 Surround) based on the audio channels in your source file.
7. **Subtitles (Optional):** If your AVI file has subtitles, you can add them to the output MP4 file under the “Subtitles” tab.
8. **Choose Destination File:** At the bottom of the HandBrake window, click the “Browse” button to select the destination folder and file name for the converted MPEG4 file. Make sure to add the “.mp4” extension to the file name.
9. **Start the Encoding:** Click the “Start Encode” button at the top of the HandBrake window to begin the conversion process. A progress bar will appear at the bottom of the window indicating the status of the conversion. The time it takes to convert will depend on the size of the AVI file, the chosen settings, and your computer’s processing power.
10. **Verify the Converted File:** After the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder you specified and play the converted MPEG4 file to ensure it plays correctly and the video quality is satisfactory.
**Pros of using HandBrake:**
* Free and open-source
* Powerful features and advanced settings
* Supports a wide range of formats
* Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)
* Batch processing capabilities
**Cons of using HandBrake:**
* Can be overwhelming for beginners due to the many options.
* The interface can seem less intuitive than some other converters.
3. Converting AVI to MPEG4 using Freemake Video Converter
Freemake Video Converter is a user-friendly video converter that supports a wide range of formats, including AVI and MPEG4. It’s a popular choice for beginners due to its intuitive interface and straightforward conversion process. However, the free version has some limitations.
**Important Note:** Freemake Video Converter is often bundled with unwanted software. Be extremely cautious during installation and carefully read each screen to avoid installing any additional programs. Pay close attention to checkboxes and decline any offers for bundled software.
**Steps:**
1. **Download and Install Freemake Video Converter:** Download Freemake Video Converter from a reputable source. Be extremely careful during the installation process and uncheck any boxes that offer to install additional software or change your browser settings. It is highly recommended to research the latest status of Freemake before downloading, as its bundling practices have varied over time.
2. **Open Freemake Video Converter:** Launch Freemake Video Converter.
3. **Add the AVI File:** Click the “+ Video” button to browse your computer and select the AVI file you want to convert. Once you’ve selected the file, click “Open.”
4. **Choose the Output Format:** At the bottom of the Freemake Video Converter window, you’ll see a row of output format icons. Click the “to MP4” icon.
5. **Select a Preset:** In the “Convert to MP4” window, you can choose a preset or customize the conversion settings. Freemake offers a range of presets optimized for different devices and video qualities. Select a preset that suits your needs. Generally, a profile with H.264 codec and AAC audio is a good choice.
6. **Customize Conversion Settings (Optional):**
* You can adjust the video codec, resolution, bitrate, frame rate, and audio settings by clicking the gear icon next to the selected preset.
* **Video Codec:** H.264 is a good choice for compatibility.
* **Resolution:** Choose the desired resolution for the output video.
* **Bitrate:** Adjust the bitrate to control the video quality and file size.
* **Frame Rate:** Keep the same frame rate as the source video or choose a standard frame rate.
* **Audio Codec:** AAC is a recommended audio codec.
* **Bitrate (Audio):** Choose an appropriate audio bitrate (e.g., 128kbps).
7. **Choose Destination Folder:** Click the “Browse…” button to select the destination folder for the converted MPEG4 file.
8. **Start the Conversion:** Click the “Convert” button to begin the conversion process. A progress bar will appear in the Freemake Video Converter window indicating the status of the conversion.
9. **Verify the Converted File:** After the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder you specified and play the converted MPEG4 file to ensure it plays correctly and the video quality is satisfactory.
**Pros of using Freemake Video Converter:**
* User-friendly interface
* Supports a wide range of formats
* Easy-to-use presets
**Cons of using Freemake Video Converter:**
* Free version may have limitations, such as watermarks or limited conversion time.
* Bundles potentially unwanted software during installation (be very careful).
* May install a Freemake logo intro to each converted video.
##4. Converting AVI to MPEG4 using Online Video Converters
Online video converters offer a convenient way to convert AVI to MPEG4 without installing any software on your computer. These converters are web-based, so you can access them from any device with an internet connection. However, they typically have limitations on file size, conversion speed, and features compared to dedicated software.
**Popular Online Video Converters:**
* **CloudConvert:** (cloudconvert.com)
* **Zamzar:** (zamzar.com)
* **OnlineConvertFree:** (onlineconvertfree.com)
* **Convertio:** (convertio.co)
**Steps (General Steps, May Vary Slightly Depending on the Converter):**
1. **Choose an Online Video Converter:** Select a reputable online video converter from the list above or find one through a search engine. Be cautious of less-known converters, as some may be unreliable or contain malware.
2. **Upload the AVI File:** Go to the converter’s website and look for an “Upload” or “Select File” button. Click the button to browse your computer and select the AVI file you want to convert. Some converters also allow you to upload files from cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox.
3. **Choose the Output Format:** Select “MP4” or “MPEG4” as the output format from the dropdown menu.
4. **Adjust Conversion Settings (Optional):** Some online converters offer basic customization options, such as resolution, bitrate, and codec. If available, adjust these settings to your preferences. Keep in mind that the options are usually limited compared to dedicated software.
5. **Start the Conversion:** Click the “Convert” or “Start” button to begin the conversion process. The converter will upload the AVI file to its servers and start the conversion. The time it takes to convert will depend on the size of the file, the server’s processing power, and your internet connection speed.
6. **Download the Converted File:** Once the conversion is complete, a download link will appear on the converter’s website. Click the link to download the converted MPEG4 file to your computer.
7. **Verify the Converted File:** Play the downloaded MPEG4 file to ensure it plays correctly and the video quality is satisfactory.
**Pros of using Online Video Converters:**
* No software installation required
* Convenient and easy to use
* Accessible from any device with an internet connection
**Cons of using Online Video Converters:**
* Limited file size limits
* Slower conversion speed compared to dedicated software
* Limited customization options
* Potential privacy concerns (uploading files to third-party servers)
* May have watermarks or other restrictions
**Important Considerations When Using Online Converters:**
* **File Size Limits:** Most online converters have limitations on the maximum file size you can upload. If you have large AVI files, you may need to use a different method.
* **Privacy:** Be aware that you are uploading your video file to a third-party server. If you have privacy concerns, consider using a dedicated video converter software that runs on your computer.
* **Security:** Use reputable online converters and avoid those that seem suspicious or have a history of malware or security issues. Always scan the downloaded file with an antivirus program before opening it.
* **Internet Connection:** A stable and fast internet connection is essential for using online video converters. Slow or unreliable connections can lead to errors or long conversion times.
5. Using Dedicated Video Converter Software (Paid Options)
If you need advanced features, faster conversion speeds, and greater control over the output settings, consider using dedicated video converter software. These programs are typically paid options, but they offer a more professional and comprehensive video conversion experience.
**Popular Dedicated Video Converter Software:**
* **Wondershare UniConverter:** A comprehensive video converter with a wide range of features, including video editing, DVD burning, and screen recording. It supports a vast array of formats and offers GPU acceleration for faster conversion speeds.
* **Movavi Video Converter Premium:** Another popular video converter known for its user-friendly interface and fast conversion speeds. It supports a wide range of formats and offers features like video editing, subtitle editing, and audio extraction.
* **Any Video Converter Ultimate:** A powerful video converter that supports a wide range of formats and offers features like DVD ripping, screen recording, and video editing. It also supports batch conversion and GPU acceleration.
* **Leawo Video Converter Ultimate:** This software converts video and audio files between 180+ formats and also works as a DVD ripper, DVD creator, Blu-ray Ripper and Blu-ray Creator.
**Steps (General Steps, May Vary Slightly Depending on the Software):**
1. **Download and Install the Software:** Download and install the video converter software on your computer. Most paid programs offer a free trial, so you can try before you buy.
2. **Open the Software:** Launch the video converter software.
3. **Add the AVI File:** Click the “Add Files” or “Import” button to browse your computer and select the AVI file you want to convert.
4. **Choose the Output Format:** Select “MP4” or “MPEG4” as the output format from the dropdown menu. The software usually provides a list of device-specific profiles for easy conversion.
5. **Adjust Conversion Settings:** Adjust the video and audio settings to your preferences. Dedicated video converters offer a wide range of customization options, including:
* **Video Codec:** H.264, H.265, MPEG4
* **Resolution:** Choose the desired resolution for the output video.
* **Bitrate:** Adjust the bitrate to control the video quality and file size.
* **Frame Rate:** Keep the same frame rate as the source video or choose a standard frame rate.
* **Audio Codec:** AAC, MP3, AC3
* **Bitrate (Audio):** Choose an appropriate audio bitrate.
* **Channels:** Stereo, Mono, 5.1 Surround
* **Filters:** Apply filters to improve the video quality (e.g., deinterlacing, denoise).
6. **Choose Destination Folder:** Select the destination folder for the converted MPEG4 file.
7. **Start the Conversion:** Click the “Convert” or “Start” button to begin the conversion process. The software will use your computer’s processing power and, in some cases, GPU acceleration to convert the video.
8. **Verify the Converted File:** After the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder you specified and play the converted MPEG4 file to ensure it plays correctly and the video quality is satisfactory.
**Pros of using Dedicated Video Converter Software:**
* Faster conversion speeds
* More customization options
* Batch conversion capabilities
* Advanced features like video editing and DVD ripping
* Dedicated technical support
* No watermarks or limitations
**Cons of using Dedicated Video Converter Software:**
* Paid software (requires purchasing a license)
* Can be more complex to use than online converters
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best tools and instructions, you might encounter some issues during the AVI to MPEG4 conversion process. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
* **No Audio in the Converted File:**
* **Cause:** The audio codec in the AVI file might not be supported by the converter or the output profile.
* **Solution:** Try changing the audio codec in the conversion settings to AAC or MP3. Also, make sure the audio bitrate is set to an appropriate value (e.g., 128kbps or 160kbps).
* **Video Quality is Poor:**
* **Cause:** The bitrate is too low, or the resolution has been reduced too much.
* **Solution:** Increase the bitrate in the conversion settings. Experiment with different bitrate values to find a good balance between quality and file size. Also, try increasing the resolution or keeping it the same as the original AVI file.
* **Conversion Process is Slow:**
* **Cause:** The conversion process is CPU-intensive. The AVI file is large, or your computer’s processing power is limited.
* **Solution:** Close unnecessary programs to free up system resources. If your video card supports GPU acceleration, enable it in the conversion settings. Consider using a faster computer or a dedicated video converter software that utilizes GPU acceleration.
* **The Converted File Won’t Play:**
* **Cause:** The converted file might be corrupted, or the media player doesn’t support the codec used in the converted file.
* **Solution:** Try converting the AVI file again. Use a different video converter software or online converter. Make sure your media player supports the H.264 or H.265 video codec and AAC audio codec. Try playing the file in VLC Media Player, which supports a wide range of codecs.
* **Error Messages During Conversion:**
* **Cause:** Various issues, such as corrupted AVI file, unsupported codec, or software bugs.
* **Solution:** Try converting a different AVI file to see if the issue is specific to one file. Update your video converter software to the latest version. Check the software’s documentation or online forums for solutions to specific error messages.
* **Watermark on the Converted Video:**
* **Cause:** Using a free version of a video converter software that adds watermarks to converted videos.
* **Solution:** Purchase a license for the software to remove the watermark or use a different video converter software that doesn’t add watermarks (e.g., VLC Media Player, HandBrake).
Conclusion
Converting AVI to MPEG4 is a relatively simple process that can significantly improve the compatibility, file size, and streaming performance of your videos. Whether you choose to use a free tool like VLC or HandBrake, an online converter, or a dedicated video converter software, the steps outlined in this guide should help you successfully convert your AVI files to MPEG4 format. Remember to consider your specific needs and priorities when choosing a conversion method, and always verify the converted file to ensure the video quality and audio are satisfactory. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your AVI videos on any device, share them online with ease, and save valuable storage space.
Remember to always back up your original AVI files before converting them, in case something goes wrong during the conversion process.
With a little practice, you’ll be able to convert AVI to MPEG4 like a pro!