How do i change the format of a video file​

Changing the format of a video file is a common task, whether you need to convert it to be compatible with specific software, devices, or platforms, or if you’re simply trying to reduce its file size. This process, known as video conversion, involves re-encoding a video from one format to another, which can be done using a variety of methods and tools. The good news is, it’s not particularly difficult to achieve, though there are different things you should consider to ensure the best results.

1. Video Formats

Before diving into the process of converting a video file, it’s important to understand the key aspects of video formats. Videos are usually encoded with a codec, which is a method of compressing and decompressing the video file. The most common codecs are H.264. HEVC (H.265), and VP9. The video file format itself (such as MP4. AVI, MOV, MKV, etc.) usually refers to the container in which the video data is stored. The container holds not just the video data, but also audio tracks, subtitles, and metadata.

Some common video formats are:

MP4: Popular for its balance of quality and compression.

AVI: Older format, usually larger file sizes.

MOV: Commonly used by Apple devices and software.

MKV: Known for its support of high-quality videos and multiple tracks.

FLV: Used in Flash video content, though largely outdated now.

WMV: A Windows-specific format, known for high compression but less flexibility than MP4.

When converting videos, the most important factors to consider are:

The codec used for the video (e.g., H.264. H.265).

The container format (e.g., MP4. MKV, MOV).

Resolution and frame rate (e.g., 1080p at 30fps).

Audio codec and quality.

2. Choosing the Right Video Conversion Tool

To change the format of a video, you’ll need a video converter. There are several options available, ranging from desktop software to online tools. Here are a few common tools:

A. Desktop Video Conversion Software

HandBrake (Free, Open-source)

HandBrake is one of the most popular and powerful open-source video converters. It allows you to convert videos from almost any format to a wide range of formats, including MP4. MKV, and WebM. HandBrake also lets you customize settings such as video codec, bitrate, resolution, and audio settings.

Freemake Video Converter (Free, with paid version for more features)

Freemake is a user-friendly tool that supports video conversion between a wide range of formats. It can also extract audio from video files, merge videos, and adjust video quality and size.

Adobe Media Encoder (Paid)

Adobe Media Encoder is a powerful video conversion tool that is part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud suite. It’s perfect for professionals who need high-quality conversions and batch processing, especially for large files or high-end projects.

FFmpeg (Free, Open-source)

FFmpeg is a command-line-based tool that offers extensive control over video encoding and format conversion. It’s highly customizable but requires more technical knowledge to use effectively.

B. Online Video Conversion Tools

If you don’t want to install software, several online tools can convert video files. However, keep in mind that online tools may have limitations in terms of file size and speed. Popular online video converters include:

CloudConvert

CloudConvert supports a wide range of formats and offers options to adjust video settings, such as resolution, codec, and bitrate. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require installation.

Zamzar

Zamzar is a straightforward online tool that lets you upload video files and convert them into a range of formats. It supports popular formats like MP4. MOV, and AVI.

Convertio

Convertio is another online tool that supports video format conversion, along with the ability to adjust output parameters like resolution and quality. It’s fast and convenient for smaller files.

3. Preparing the Video for Conversion

Before starting the conversion process, there are a few steps you may want to take:

Check File Size: If your video is too large, it may be difficult to upload to an online tool, or it may take longer to convert. In this case, consider splitting the video into smaller segments using a video editor or converter.

Choose Output Settings: You can customize the resolution, codec, and other settings before converting. For example, you might want to convert a video from 4K resolution to 1080p, or from a high-bitrate codec to a lower-bitrate one to save space.

Backup Your Video: It’s always a good idea to create a backup of the original video before making changes. This way, you won’t lose the file if something goes wrong during the conversion process.

4. Converting the Video

Once you’re ready to convert your video, follow the appropriate steps depending on the software or tool you’re using.

A. Using HandBrake (Desktop)

Open HandBrake and click the “Source” button to select the video file you want to convert.

In the “Destination” section, select where you want to save the converted file.

Choose a preset (like Fast 1080p30 for MP4 format) or manually adjust settings like video codec, bitrate, and resolution.

Click Start Encode to begin the conversion process. HandBrake will display a progress bar to show the status.

B. Using Freemake Video Converter (Desktop)

Open Freemake Video Converter and click “Add Video” to select the video file you want to convert.

Select the desired output format from the list (e.g., MP4. AVI, MOV).

Adjust any video settings, such as resolution and bitrate, if needed.

Click the Convert button to start the conversion. The tool will process the video and save the converted file to your selected destination.

C. Using CloudConvert (Online)

Go to CloudConvert’s website.

Click “Select File” and upload your video.

Choose the desired output format (e.g., MP4. AVI, MOV).

Click Start Conversion and wait for the process to complete. Once finished, download the converted file.

5. Configuring Advanced Settings

For more control over the final output, you can configure several advanced settings in most video converters, including:

Resolution: This refers to the width and height of the video in pixels. You may want to reduce the resolution (e.g., from 4K to 1080p or 720p) to save file space or to make it compatible with older devices.

Frame Rate: The number of frames displayed per second. Standard video frame rates are 24. 30. and 60 FPS. Lowering the frame rate can reduce file size but may also make the video less smooth.

Bitrate: The amount of data processed per second. Higher bitrates result in better quality, but larger file sizes. Reducing the bitrate can help you decrease the file size.

Audio Settings: You can change the audio codec (e.g., from MP3 to AAC), sample rate, and bitrate to control the audio quality and size.

6. Post-Conversion Considerations

Once the conversion process is complete, there are a few things you might need to check:

Quality: Make sure the video quality is acceptable. If you notice a significant reduction in quality (e.g., pixelation or audio sync issues), you might need to adjust the settings and try again.

File Size: If the goal was to reduce the size of the video, check that the new file size is within your desired range.

Compatibility: Test the converted video on the intended device or software to make sure it plays correctly.

7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Video Not Playing After Conversion: If the converted video doesn’t play, it might be due to codec or container issues. Try converting to a different format or use a different codec.

Loss of Quality: If you notice that the video quality has dropped after conversion, try increasing the bitrate or resolution during the conversion process. Always use the highest quality settings that your device or software can handle.

Audio Sync Issues: If the audio is out of sync with the video, this can sometimes happen during the conversion. Try adjusting the audio codec or bitrate, or using a different conversion tool.