Video Converter

Copy or re-encode: why some conversions are instant

A video file is a container (MP4, MOV, MKV) holding streams that were compressed with a codec (H.264, HEVC, VP8). If the streams already suit the new container, the tool copies them into it without touching the picture: that takes seconds and the quality is identical. If they don't, for example an AVI in an old codec, or WebM going to MP4, the video is re-encoded. That takes longer and the picture is compressed again, at a quality setting that keeps it looking the same to the eye.

Each result says which of the two happened.

Which format should I choose?

• MP4 (H.264): the safe choice. Plays on every phone, browser and TV, and is what WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube expect.
• WebM: for websites. Plays in Chrome and Firefox, but Apple apps and some editors don't open it.
• MOV: for Apple editing apps such as iMovie and Final Cut.
• MKV: keeps every stream exactly as it is. Good for VLC and media players, not for social apps.

iPhone HEVC videos

Recent iPhones record in HEVC (H.265). It looks great but many Android phones, WhatsApp and older Windows PCs can't play it. Choosing MP4 re-encodes it to H.264, which plays everywhere.

Want to do more with the video?

• Make it smaller for email or chat with the Video Compressor.
• Cut the part you need with the Video Trimmer.
• Save just the sound with Video to MP3.

Large files and browser memory

Each video is loaded into your browser's memory while it is converted, one at a time. Everyday phone recordings work well. Re-encoding long or 4K videos is slow in a browser, especially on phones. If a file fails, close other tabs or try it on a computer.