The Best Video Converting Software for Your Needs

When it comes to converting videos, choosing the right software is crucial. This article will help you make an informed decision by exploring the features, benefits, and drawbacks of popular video converting software. Whether you're looking for versatility, speed, or just simplicity, there's a solution for you.

What to Look for in a Video Converter

When picking the best video converter, consider your specific requirements. Different software is better suited for different tasks. The “best” choice depends on the following factors:

Supports Many Formats: Works with a wide range of video and audio formats. Maintains Quality: Converts files without losing their original quality. Fast Conversion: Handles large files and multiple files quickly. User-Friendly: Easy to use, even for beginners. Batch Conversion: Can convert multiple files at once. Device Presets: Offers presets for specific devices like smartphones, tablets, and consoles. Editing Features: Includes basic video editing tools like trimming, cropping. DVD Ripping: Can rip and convert DVDs. Video Downloading: Allows downloading videos from the internet. Regular Updates: Receives updates to support new formats and devices. Cross-Platform: Available on both Windows and Mac (optional but useful).

Best Video Converting Software Options

Here’s a detailed look at three popular video converters:

Cisdem Video Converter

Best for: Versatility and Speed

Why It’s Great:

Supports Many Formats: Supports over 600 video and audio formats, including MP4, AVI, MKV, and 4K UHD. Maintains Quality: Converts files without losing quality and can even improve video quality. Fast: Designed to be 30 times faster than other converters, making it great for large files or batch conversions. Batch Conversion: Can convert multiple files at once. Device Presets: Offers over 300 presets for devices like smartphones, tablets, and consoles, making it easy to choose the right format. Extra Tools: Includes editing tools, DVD ripping, and the ability to download videos from the internet.

How to Use It to Convert Videos:

Download and Install: Download and install Cisdem Video Converter from their website. Drag and Drop: Drag and drop the videos you want to convert into the program. Editing (Optional): If you wish to edit your video before converting, click the pencil icon. You can trim, crop, rotate the video, add effects, watermark, subtitles, and adjust the volume. Select Format: Click “Convert all tasks to” and select “General Video”, “MP4 Video”, “MP4 HD Video”, or “MP4 HEVC Video” as needed. If you want higher quality, you can also click “4K Video” to select MP4 4K format based on your need. Start Conversion: Click “Convert” to start the process. Your files will be ready in no time.

Drawbacks: Cisdem Video Converter is not free but offers a free trial if you want to test it out before buying.

HandBrake

Best for: Free Open-Source Option

Why It’s Great:

Free and Open-Source: Completely free and open-source. Reliable: Supports several formats, including MP4, MKV, and WebM. Queue System: Allows queuing multiple videos for conversion.

How to Use It to Convert Videos:

Download and Install: Download and install HandBrake from its official site. Select File: Open HandBrake and select the video file you wish to convert. Select Format: In the “Summary” tab, select “MP4” as the output format. Queue Multiple Videos (Optional): Add multiple videos to the queue by clicking “Add to Queue.” Start Conversion: Click “Start Queue” to begin the conversion process.

Drawbacks: The interface is a bit outdated and may be slow with large files.

MPEG Streamclip

Best for: Simplicity with Basic Editing

Why It’s Great:

Free and Simple: Easy to use and free. Basic Editing: Allows basic editing like cutting and merging videos. Combine Videos: Can combine multiple videos into one file.

How to Use It to Convert Videos:

Download and Install: Download and install MPEG Streamclip from its website. Select File: Open the program and go to “File Open Files” to add your video. Select Format: Click “File Export to MPEG-4” to choose MP4 as the output format. Tweak Settings (Optional): You can tweak the settings if needed then click “Make MP4.” Start Conversion: Click “Save” to start the conversion.

Drawbacks: It hasn’t been updated in years, so it might not support newer formats or operating systems.

Summary of Recommendations

Cisdem Video Converter is the best choice for a powerful all-in-one solution. HandBrake is a solid free option but has some limitations. MPEG Streamclip is great for basic needs but offers fewer features and slower performance.