How to Convert Video to MP4: A Comprehensive Guide

MP4 is the most widely compatible and universally supported video format today. Its ability to balance high quality with relatively small file sizes makes it ideal for sharing videos online, storing them on various devices, and using them in different applications. While numerous video formats exist (AVI, MOV, MKV, WebM, etc.), converting them to MP4 ensures maximum accessibility and playback compatibility.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through various methods to convert videos to MP4, covering both free and paid software options, online converters, and considerations for different platforms. We’ll also explore advanced settings to optimize your converted videos for specific purposes.

## Why Convert to MP4?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why converting to MP4 is often necessary:

* **Compatibility:** MP4 is supported by virtually all media players, operating systems, web browsers, mobile devices (smartphones, tablets), and streaming platforms (YouTube, Vimeo, Facebook, etc.).
* **File Size:** MP4 offers excellent compression capabilities, resulting in smaller file sizes compared to older formats like AVI or MOV, while maintaining good video quality.
* **Quality:** MP4 can support high-definition (HD) and ultra-high-definition (UHD/4K) video resolutions.
* **Versatility:** MP4 is suitable for a wide range of applications, including video editing, archiving, streaming, and sharing.

## Methods for Converting Video to MP4

Here’s a breakdown of the most common and effective methods for converting video to MP4:

1. **Using Dedicated Video Converter Software (Recommended)**

Dedicated video converter software provides the most control over the conversion process, allowing you to adjust various settings, batch convert files, and often offering advanced editing features. Here are some popular choices:

* **HandBrake (Free and Open-Source):** HandBrake is a powerful, free, and open-source video transcoder available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s a favorite among enthusiasts due to its extensive features and customization options.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with HandBrake:**

a. **Download and Install HandBrake:** Download the latest version of HandBrake from its official website ([https://handbrake.fr/](https://handbrake.fr/)) and install it on your computer.

b. **Open HandBrake and Select the Input Video:** Launch HandBrake. Click on “File” or “Folder” to select the video file(s) you want to convert. If you’re converting a DVD or Blu-ray, insert the disc and select it.

c. **Choose a Preset:** HandBrake offers a variety of presets optimized for different devices and resolutions. You can choose a preset based on the intended use of the video (e.g., “Fast 1080p30,” “Web Optimized,” “YouTube HQ”). For general MP4 conversion, the “Fast 1080p30” or “H.265 MKV 2160p60” (if you desire 4k and have a newer computer) presets are good starting points.

d. **Adjust Output Settings (Optional):**

* **Container:** Make sure the “Container” is set to “MP4.” This is typically the default.

* **Video Tab:** In the “Video” tab, you can adjust the video codec (H.264 is highly recommended for compatibility), frame rate, bitrate (lower bitrate = smaller file size, lower quality), and encoder quality (Constant Quality (RF) is usually preferred). Using Constant Quality, you can enter a value between 0 and 51; lower values give better quality and larger file sizes. Around RF 20-23 is a good starting point for H.264, and 26-28 for H.265.

* **Audio Tab:** In the “Audio” tab, you can adjust the audio codec, bitrate, and channels. AAC is a good choice for audio encoding in MP4.

* **Subtitles Tab:** If your video has subtitles, you can add or remove them in the “Subtitles” tab.

* **Chapters Tab:** If you want to preserve or add chapters, use the “Chapters” tab.

e. **Specify Output File Name and Location:** In the “Save As” field, enter the desired file name and choose a location to save the converted MP4 file.

f. **Start the Conversion:** Click the “Start Encode” button (or the “Add to Queue” button to add the conversion to a queue for batch processing). HandBrake will begin converting the video to MP4. The progress bar at the bottom of the window will show the conversion progress. The time required for conversion depends on the length of the video, the complexity of the settings, and the speed of your computer.

g. **Verify the Output:** Once the conversion is complete, navigate to the output folder and play the converted MP4 file to verify the quality and compatibility.

* **Movavi Video Converter (Paid, with Free Trial):** Movavi Video Converter is a user-friendly converter known for its speed and wide format support. It offers a clean interface and a range of presets.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with Movavi Video Converter:**

a. **Download and Install Movavi Video Converter:** Download Movavi Video Converter from the Movavi website ([https://www.movavi.com/videoconverter/](https://www.movavi.com/videoconverter/)) and install it.

b. **Add Video Files:** Launch the program and click the “Add Media” button, then select “Add Video” to choose the video file(s) you want to convert.

c. **Choose Output Format:** At the bottom of the window, select the “MP4” format from the list of available formats. You can choose a preset based on the target device or resolution.

d. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the “Settings” icon (gear icon) next to the MP4 format to adjust video and audio settings, such as codec, resolution, bitrate, and frame rate. Movavi typically provides user-friendly sliders and dropdown menus for easy customization.

e. **Specify Output Folder:** Choose an output folder where you want to save the converted file by clicking the “Save to” button.

f. **Convert:** Click the “Convert” button to start the conversion process. The progress bar will show the conversion status.

g. **Verify Output:** After the conversion is complete, you can open the output folder and play the converted MP4 video to ensure it meets your requirements.

* **Any Video Converter (Free and Paid Versions):** Any Video Converter (AVC) offers both a free and a paid version. The free version provides basic conversion features, while the paid version unlocks advanced features like DVD ripping and editing tools.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with Any Video Converter:**

a. **Download and Install Any Video Converter:** Download Any Video Converter Free from its official website ([https://www.any-video-converter.com/](https://www.any-video-converter.com/)) and install it.

b. **Add Video Files:** Launch Any Video Converter and click the “Add Video(s)” button to select the video files you wish to convert.

c. **Select Output Format:** From the “Output Profile” dropdown menu, choose “MP4” as the output format. You can also select a specific device preset if you’re converting for a particular device (e.g., iPhone, Android).

d. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the “Basic Settings” or “Video Options” to adjust video and audio parameters such as codec, bitrate, frame rate, resolution, and audio channels.

e. **Specify Output Folder:** Choose an output folder by clicking the “Output Folder” browse button.

f. **Convert:** Click the “Convert Now!” button to start the conversion process.

g. **Verify Output:** Once the conversion is finished, you can locate the converted MP4 file in the output folder and play it to check the results.

* **Wondershare UniConverter (Paid, with Free Trial):** Wondershare UniConverter is a comprehensive video converter that supports a wide range of formats and offers advanced features like video editing, DVD burning, and screen recording.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with Wondershare UniConverter:**

a. **Download and Install Wondershare UniConverter:** Download Wondershare UniConverter from the Wondershare website ([https://uniconverter.wondershare.com/](https://uniconverter.wondershare.com/)) and install it.

b. **Add Video Files:** Open Wondershare UniConverter and click the “Add Files” button to select the video files you want to convert. You can also drag and drop files into the program window.

c. **Choose Output Format:** At the bottom of the window, click the “Output Format” dropdown menu and select “MP4” from the “Video” tab. You can also choose a preset based on the target device or resolution.

d. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the “Settings” icon (gear icon) next to the selected MP4 preset to adjust video and audio settings, such as codec, bitrate, frame rate, resolution, and audio channels. UniConverter offers extensive customization options.

e. **Specify Output Folder:** Choose an output folder by clicking the “Output” button at the bottom of the window.

f. **Convert:** Click the “Convert” or “Start All” button to begin the conversion process. The progress bar will show the conversion status.

g. **Verify Output:** After the conversion is complete, you can find the converted MP4 file in the output folder and play it to ensure it meets your requirements.

2. **Using Online Video Converters (Convenient for Small Files)**

Online video converters are a convenient option for converting smaller video files without the need to install any software. However, they often have limitations on file size, conversion speed, and advanced settings. Also, be cautious about the security and privacy of your files when using online converters, especially for sensitive content.

* **CloudConvert ([https://cloudconvert.com/](https://cloudconvert.com/)):** CloudConvert supports a wide range of formats and offers advanced options like adjusting video and audio codecs, bitrate, resolution, and frame rate. It also integrates with cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with CloudConvert:**

a. **Visit the CloudConvert Website:** Go to [https://cloudconvert.com/](https://cloudconvert.com/) in your web browser.

b. **Select Input File:** Click the “Select File” button to upload the video file you want to convert. You can choose files from your computer, a URL, Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or Box.

c. **Choose Output Format:** From the “Convert to” dropdown menu, select “MP4” as the output format.

d. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the wrench icon (settings) to adjust advanced settings such as video codec, resolution, bitrate, frame rate, audio codec, and audio bitrate. These options allow you to fine-tune the conversion process.

e. **Start Conversion:** Click the “Convert” button to start the conversion process. CloudConvert will upload your file, convert it to MP4, and then provide a download link.

f. **Download the Converted File:** Once the conversion is complete, click the “Download” button to download the converted MP4 file to your computer.

g. **Verify Output:** After downloading the file, play it to ensure the conversion meets your expectations.

* **Zamzar ([https://www.zamzar.com/](https://www.zamzar.com/)):** Zamzar is a popular online converter that supports numerous formats and offers a simple, user-friendly interface. Zamzar sends a download link to your email address after the conversion is complete.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with Zamzar:**

a. **Visit the Zamzar Website:** Go to [https://www.zamzar.com/](https://www.zamzar.com/) in your web browser.

b. **Select Input File:** Click the “Add Files” button or drag and drop the video file you want to convert.

c. **Choose Output Format:** Select “MP4” from the dropdown menu of output formats.

d. **Enter Your Email Address:** Enter your email address in the provided field. Zamzar will send you a download link to the converted file after the conversion is finished.

e. **Convert:** Click the “Convert Now” button to start the conversion process. Zamzar will upload your file, convert it to MP4, and then send you an email with the download link.

f. **Download the Converted File:** Open the email from Zamzar and click the download link to download the converted MP4 file to your computer.

g. **Verify Output:** After downloading the file, play it to verify the conversion quality.

* **FreeConvert.com ([https://www.freeconvert.com/video-converter](https://www.freeconvert.com/video-converter)):** FreeConvert.com offers a variety of online converters, including a dedicated video converter with options to adjust video and audio settings. It provides options for adjusting codec, resolution, bitrate, and frame rate.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with FreeConvert.com:**

a. **Visit the FreeConvert.com Website:** Go to [https://www.freeconvert.com/video-converter](https://www.freeconvert.com/video-converter) in your web browser.

b. **Select Input File:** Click the “Choose Files” button to upload the video file you want to convert. You can select files from your computer, Google Drive, Dropbox, or a URL.

c. **Choose Output Format:** Ensure that “MP4” is selected as the output format. If not, select it from the dropdown menu.

d. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the gear icon (settings) to adjust advanced settings such as video codec, resolution, aspect ratio, bitrate, frame rate, and audio settings. These options provide fine-grained control over the conversion.

e. **Convert:** Click the “Convert” button to start the conversion process. FreeConvert.com will upload your file and convert it to MP4.

f. **Download the Converted File:** Once the conversion is complete, click the “Download MP4” button to download the converted MP4 file to your computer.

g. **Verify Output:** After downloading the file, play it to ensure the conversion meets your expectations.

3. **Using VLC Media Player (Free, Simple Conversions)**

VLC Media Player is a versatile open-source media player that also includes basic video conversion capabilities. While it’s not as feature-rich as dedicated video converters, it’s a convenient option for simple MP4 conversions.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with VLC Media Player:**

a. **Download and Install VLC Media Player:** If you don’t already have it, download VLC Media Player from its official website ([https://www.videolan.org/vlc/](https://www.videolan.org/vlc/)) and install it.

b. **Open VLC and Select Convert/Save:** Launch VLC Media Player. Go to “Media” > “Convert / Save…” (or press Ctrl+R).

c. **Add Input File:** In the “Open Media” dialog box, click the “Add…” button to select the video file you want to convert.

d. **Convert/Save:** Click the “Convert / Save” button at the bottom of the dialog box.

e. **Choose Profile:** In the “Convert” dialog box, choose “Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4)” from the “Profile” dropdown menu. This is a standard MP4 profile.

f. **Adjust Settings (Optional):** Click the wrench icon (settings) next to the profile to adjust advanced settings such as video codec, bitrate, frame rate, resolution, audio codec, and audio bitrate. However, the options are more limited than in dedicated converters.

g. **Destination File:** Click the “Browse” button to specify the output file name and location for the converted MP4 file.

h. **Start Conversion:** Click the “Start” button to begin the conversion process. VLC will display a progress bar, and the conversion will begin. The time required for conversion depends on the length of the video and your computer’s speed.

i. **Verify Output:** Once the conversion is complete, navigate to the output folder and play the converted MP4 file to verify the quality and compatibility.

4. **Command-Line Tools (Advanced Users)**

For advanced users who prefer command-line interfaces, tools like FFmpeg offer unparalleled control over the video conversion process.

* **FFmpeg (Free and Open-Source):** FFmpeg is a powerful command-line tool for handling multimedia files. It can convert, encode, decode, mux, demux, stream, filter, and play virtually any multimedia file. It requires some technical knowledge to use effectively.

**Steps to Convert Video to MP4 with FFmpeg:**

a. **Download and Install FFmpeg:** Download FFmpeg from its official website ([https://ffmpeg.org/](https://ffmpeg.org/)) and install it on your computer. You may need to add the FFmpeg binaries to your system’s PATH environment variable to use it from the command line.

b. **Open Command Prompt or Terminal:** Open a command prompt (Windows) or terminal (macOS/Linux).

c. **Run the Conversion Command:** Use the following command to convert a video to MP4:

bash
ffmpeg -i input.avi -c:v libx264 -crf 23 -c:a aac -strict experimental output.mp4

* `ffmpeg`: The command to run FFmpeg.
* `-i input.avi`: Specifies the input video file (replace `input.avi` with the actual file name).
* `-c:v libx264`: Specifies the video codec to use (H.264, using the libx264 encoder).
* `-crf 23`: Sets the Constant Rate Factor (CRF) for video quality. Lower values result in higher quality but larger file sizes. A value of 23 is a good starting point. Experiment to find the best balance between quality and file size.
* `-c:a aac`: Specifies the audio codec to use (AAC).
* `-strict experimental`: Needed for using some experimental codecs like AAC in some FFmpeg builds.
* `output.mp4`: Specifies the output file name (replace `output.mp4` with the desired file name).

d. **Customize Settings (Optional):** You can customize the command with various options to adjust video and audio settings. For example, you can specify the resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and audio channels.

e. **Run the Command:** Press Enter to run the command. FFmpeg will start converting the video to MP4, and the progress will be displayed in the command prompt or terminal.

f. **Verify Output:** Once the conversion is complete, navigate to the directory where you saved the output file and play the converted MP4 file to check the results.

## Choosing the Right Method

The best method for converting video to MP4 depends on your needs and technical expertise.

* **Beginners:** Movavi Video Converter, Any Video Converter (Free), and online converters are good choices for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces.
* **Intermediate Users:** HandBrake offers a good balance of features and ease of use. Understanding some basic video encoding principles will greatly enhance the experience.
* **Advanced Users:** FFmpeg provides the most control and flexibility but requires technical knowledge.
* **Small Files:** Online converters are convenient for converting small files quickly.
* **Large Files or Batch Conversions:** Dedicated video converter software is more suitable for large files and batch conversions due to their speed and stability.
* **Occasional Use:** VLC Media Player can handle simple conversions when you don’t want to install dedicated software.

## Optimizing Video Settings for MP4 Conversion

To ensure the best possible results when converting video to MP4, consider the following settings:

* **Video Codec:** H.264 (AVC) is the most widely compatible video codec for MP4. H.265 (HEVC) offers better compression for similar quality but may not be supported by older devices.
* **Audio Codec:** AAC is a common and efficient audio codec for MP4.
* **Resolution:** Choose a resolution that matches the source video or the target device. Common resolutions include 1920×1080 (1080p), 1280×720 (720p), and 640×480 (SD).
* **Frame Rate:** The frame rate should typically match the source video’s frame rate. Common frame rates include 24 fps, 25 fps, 30 fps, and 60 fps.
* **Bitrate:** The bitrate determines the video quality and file size. Higher bitrates result in better quality but larger files. Experiment to find a balance that works for your needs. Constant Rate Factor (CRF) is recommended for H.264, and experiment with values between 18 and 28, depending on desired quality.
* **Constant Quality vs. Variable Bitrate (VBR) vs. Constant Bitrate (CBR):** Constant Quality (CRF in Handbrake/FFmpeg) is often the best choice, as it adjusts the bitrate dynamically to maintain a consistent level of visual quality. VBR is good for achieving target file sizes, but is less efficient. CBR is typically used for streaming applications, but it’s not ideal for general video conversion.
* **Aspect Ratio:** Ensure that the aspect ratio is correct (e.g., 16:9 for widescreen, 4:3 for standard definition).
* **Deinterlacing:** If your source video is interlaced (common for older TV recordings), deinterlace it during the conversion process to remove flickering artifacts.

## Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common issues you might encounter during video conversion and how to troubleshoot them:

* **Conversion Errors:** Try a different video converter or update your existing converter to the latest version. Also, ensure that the input file is not corrupted.
* **Audio/Video Sync Issues:** Some converters have options to adjust audio/video synchronization. Experiment with these settings.
* **Poor Video Quality:** Increase the bitrate or use a lower CRF value. Also, make sure you’re not upscaling the video unnecessarily.
* **Large File Size:** Lower the bitrate or use a higher CRF value, or use a more efficient codec like H.265.
* **Compatibility Issues:** Ensure that the MP4 file is encoded with the H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec for maximum compatibility.
* **Slow Conversion Speed:** Conversion speed depends on your computer’s hardware and the complexity of the settings. Close other applications and consider upgrading your hardware for faster conversions.

## Conclusion

Converting video to MP4 is a simple process with the right tools and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily convert your videos to MP4 for maximum compatibility and enjoyment. Remember to choose the method that best suits your needs and to optimize the settings for the desired quality and file size. Experiment with different settings and converters to find the combination that works best for you. Enjoy your converted videos!