There are many reasons why you might need to convert a video file. Perhaps you want to upload it to a website that only supports certain formats, or share it with someone who has different playback capabilities. Whatever the reason, there is an easy solution – an online video converter.
In this article, we'll provide step-by-step instructions on how to change video format online and give a brief overview of some good online video converters.
Let's get started!
What are online video converters?
Online video converters are web-based tools that allow you to change video format without having to download any software. They work on any device with an internet connection and are easy to use. All you need is the video file you want to convert and a few minutes of your time.
How to convert video files online
Choose an online video converter
When choosing a video converter, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, ensure the converter supports the video format you want to change to. Most converters support popular formats such as MP4, AVI, MOV, and WMV. Secondly, consider the ease of use.
The best converters have intuitive interfaces that guide you through the conversion process. Lastly, look at the additional features offered. Some online video converters allow editing functions, such as cropping, rotating, or adding effects to your video.
Upload your video file
Once you've chosen an online video converter, upload your video. Most converters have a simple drag-and-drop feature for this. Locate the video file on your computer and drag it into the converter's upload area. Alternatively, you can click on the “Choose File” or similar button and select your video from your computer's files.
Select output format
This is where you'll choose the format you want to convert a video file into. Popular options include AVI, MOV, and MP4, with the latter being the most widely supported across devices. Some converters offer the option to convert your video into a specific device's format, such as iPhone or Android.
This can be useful if you need to play the video on a particular device. Moreover, they may allow you to adjust the quality, resolution, and other settings of the output file.
Convert your video file
Once you've selected the output format and made any necessary adjustments, it's time to convert your video. This process may take a few minutes, depending on the size of your file and the speed of your internet connection. After the conversion is complete, you'll be given a download link or prompted to save the converted file to your device.
Top online video converters
CloudConvert
CloudConvert is a popular online video converter that supports over 200 file formats. It has a user-friendly interface and offers fast conversion speeds. One of the main advantages of CloudConvert is its ability to directly save converted files to cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox.
It also allows you to change different settings like constant quality, resolution, aspect ratio, video codec, etc. However, the free version has time and file size limit restrictions, and you'll need to upgrade to a paid plan for unlimited conversions.
FreeConvert
FreeConvert is a free online video converter that supports a wide range of formats, including MP4, MOV, AVI, and more. It also offers the option to resize, rotate, flip, and change video frame rate before conversion.
One unique feature of FreeConvert is its ability to upload video files not only from PC, but also from Google Drive, Dropbox, and even via URL. Among some limitations are the maximum file size of 1 GB, queues, and ads.
Video2Edit
Video2Edit has various editing features that allow you to enhance your video before converting. These include cutting, rotating, merging, extracting tracks, audio editing, and more. It has some presets for conversion, such as MOV to MP4, MP4 to GIF, and others, and can convert multiple files simultaneously.
Users can also add example files to test the features before actually using them. Before converting, you can adjust frame rate, bitrate, size, audio quality and frequency, and more.
HDconvert
HDconvert uses cloud-based conversion technology to quickly convert your video files. It first uploads your video to the cloud and then converts it to your desired format up to 60 times faster. It also supports high-quality 4K and HD video conversions and allows for batch conversions.
There is no limit on file size or need for plugin installations. Moreover, all the files are stored temporarily and automatically deleted after 24 hours. Users can log in to their account to access all the conversions in one place.
VideoCandy
VideoCandy is a simple and efficient way to change video format online. It can convert video to MP4, MP3, AVI, MOV, MKV, WebM, and GIF. The converter itself doesn't have any features except for changing format, but the website has a few links to other tools like a video editor and compressor. Among other options, you can trim, merge, rotate, reverse, change speed, remove audio, and more.
Zamzar
Zamzar is well-known for supporting over 1200 file formats and quick conversion speed. It has a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to convert videos. Like CloudConvert, it also supports direct conversions to cloud storage services and offers advanced settings like resolution, frame rate, audio quality, and more.
The most significant thing about this tool is the presets for different devices like Samsung, iPhone, Xbox, PS3, etc. and platforms like Vimeo and YouTube.
Conclusion
So, now you know the steps on how to change video format online. Bear in mind the essential aspects while choosing an online video converter, such as supported formats, ease of use, and additional features.
These are some of the top online video converters with different features and limitations, so choose the one that best fits your needs. Whether you need a quick and straightforward conversion or advanced editing options, there's an online converter for everyone.
Consider the fact that some converters may have file size or time restrictions, and you might need to upgrade to a paid plan for full access. Nevertheless, they offer a convenient and accessible way to convert video files without the need for any software installation.