Convert MP4 to MOV: 7 Free Ways
Knowing how to convert MP4 video to MOV is essential for seamless sharing and playback. Both are two popular formats, but switching between them can be tricky. That's where this guide comes in.
We'll break down everything you need to know about converting MP4 to MOV in simple steps. Whether you're a pro or just starting out, this article will help you change video format smoothly, no matter what devices you're using. We reviewed video conversion software for Windows and Mac, and online services, too.
Get ready to dive into the world of digital media conversion and unlock the full potential of your video files!
How we picked MP4 to MOV converters
Selecting the best video converter involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure efficiency and a user-friendly experience. Here are the key criteria we used:
- Features and customization. We evaluated the customization options offered by each video conversion tool.
- Output quality. We assessed the video file converters and services on their capacity to convert MOV files with minimal loss of visual and audio fidelity.
- Ease of use. We considered how intuitively the converters allow users to select, process, and save files.
By carefully evaluating these criteria, we were able to handpick the most reliable and user-friendly MP4 to MOV conversion methods, ensuring that our readers have access to effective solutions for their multimedia needs.
How to convert MP4 to MOV offline?
Icecream Video Converter
While many converters facilitate video-to-video conversion, the primary distinguishing factor among them lies in the output quality they deliver. Regrettably, not every converter ensures file processing without compromising quality.
However, Icecream Video Converter stands out by preserving the original quality throughout the conversion process. Simply configure the settings appropriately, and it efficiently completes the task with no loss in quality.
Look how to convert from MP4 to MOV:
- Download the MP4 converter for Windows and install it.
- Import your MP4 file by either clicking the "+Add file" button in the upper left corner or simply using the drag and drop function.
- Configure the output file settings.
- Output format. Since your format choice has already been made and you want to convert to MOV, select it from the menu.
- Resolution. Choose the needed dimensions, ranging from 640 to 3840 pixels.
- Video length. Trim the video as needed to remove any unnecessary parts.
- Quality. Adjust the quality by selecting from five available options.
- Subtitles. Enhance your video by adding subtitles for better understanding.
- Watermark. Protect your intellectual property with a watermark.
- Once all configurations are set according to your preferences, hit "Convert" and wait for the process to complete.
Keep in mind that you have the flexibility to break, restart, or stop the MP4 to MOV conversion anytime using the "Pause/Resume" and "Cancel" icons located next to the progress bar.
After the conversion completes, a pop-up window will appear, providing a quick report on the session. If you want to access your output files immediately, simply press the "Open folder" button.
Alternatively, if you're done with the video conversion, you can close the window and exit the application.
Pros:
- Intuitive Interface. The video converter boasts an interface that is easy to navigate, catering to users of all proficiency levels.
- Format Compatibility. With support for a diverse array of video formats for both input and output, users can seamlessly convert videos between different formats.
- Batch Conversion. Lets users process batches of videos at the same time, saving time and effort when working with large collections of files.
- Customization Features. Due to a range of customization options, users have complete control over the conversion parameters.
- Output Quality. The MP4 converter ensures that converted videos maintain high-quality output, preserving clarity and integrity with the original files.
- Cost-Free Solution. Provides its array of features and functionalities at no cost, making it an accessible option for users seeking a budget-friendly solution.
Cons:
- Windows Exclusive. The video file converter is designed solely for Windows users.
VideoProc
VideoProc Converter is a comprehensive multimedia tool designed to meet various video processing needs efficiently. It offers a wide range of features tailored for video editing, downloading, and recording. And it works as a video converter, too.
How to change MP4 to MOV:
- Download and install the software on your computer. Open it.
- Choose the "Video" option. Click the "+ Video" button to import the MP4 file.
- In the "Target Format" menu, select "MOV" as the output extension.
- Once you have selected the format and adjusted the settings (if necessary), hit the "Run" button.
- You can access the converted file in the designated output folder.
Pros:
- High-Quality Conversion. Ensures high-quality conversion from MP4 to MOV, preserving the original video and audio quality of the file.
- Enhanced Control. Professional settings offer users precise control over the conversion process, allowing them to tailor output files to their specific requirements.
- Stability. The video file converter maintains stability even when processing large files or complex tasks, minimizing the risk of crashes or errors during operation.
Cons:
- Complexity. Advanced settings may be overwhelming for users with limited technical expertise, leading to confusion or incorrect configuration.
- Resource Intensive. Processing large projects may require substantial CPU and GPU resources, impacting system performance.
VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player stands as a versatile and widely-used multimedia software renowned for its robust capabilities in playback, streaming, and even video conversion.
Offering a seamless experience across multiple platforms, the software has garnered a reputation for its reliability and extensive format support.
Explore how to turn MP4 into MOV:
- Launch the player. If you don't have it installed, you can download it for free from the official website.
- Navigate to the "Media" menu. From the dropdown list, select "Convert / Save" (or press Ctrl + R on your keyboard).
- In the "Open Media" window that appears, click on the "+ Add" button to select the MP4 file.
- Press the "Convert / Save" button. This will open the "Convert" window.
- Under the "Profile" dropdown menu, select "Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4)".
- Hit "Browse" to choose the destination folder where you want to save the file.
- Tap the "Start" button to start the conversion process.
- When the conversion is complete, navigate to the destination folder to find the converted MOV file.
Pros:
- Open-Source. VLC is a free, open-source software, which means you can use it without any cost and have access to its code for customization.
- Multiple file conversion. The MP4 to MOV converter lets you process several files at once.
- Platform Compatibility. The program is available for various operating systems including Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile platforms like Android and iOS.
Cons:
- Outdated User Interface. While the app is feature-rich, its interface may be inconvenient for some users, especially those who are not familiar with its layout.
- Quality Loss. Depending on the chosen settings and source file, there may be a risk of quality loss, particularly if parameters are not configured correctly.
- Limited Documentation. While the software has a large community of users, support resources specifically for conversion tasks may be limited, making troubleshooting more challenging.
How to convert MP4 to MOV online?
Video Candy
Video Candy is a service that offers a variety of online tools for video and audio editing. One of the many features that it offers is the ability to convert MP4 to MOV files quickly and easily.
Step-by-step instructions on how to use the free video converter:
- Go to the MP4 to MOV converter and press "+Add File". Select the MP4 video you want to convert.
- Click "Convert to MOV" to begin the process.
- Your video will be processed and a download button for the resulting MOV file will be provided.
Pros:
- Ad-Free. Free of charge and devoid of advertisements, guaranteeing an uninterrupted and smooth user experience.
- User-Friendly Interface. Featuring a clean and intuitive design, the online video converter ensures effortless navigation and accessibility.
Cons:
- Adds Watermark. The service automatically applies a watermark to the resulting file, potentially impacting its visual presentation and professional appearance.
CloudConvert
Turning MP4 files into MOV format can present difficulties, especially for those who lack experience with video conversion utilities. CloudConvert is a versatile online platform designed to streamline the process of converting files across various formats.
Its cloud-based nature allows you to access its features from any device with an internet connection, without the need for software installation.
Follow the instructions to convert from MP4 to MOV:
- Go to CloudConvert using your preferred web browser.
- Click the "Select Files" button to upload the MP4 file you want to convert. You can also drag and drop it onto the web page.
- Select "MOV" in "Convert to" as the output format.
- By pressing the wrench icon you can adjust video and audio parameters.
- After configuring the settings (if necessary), hit the "Convert" button to initiate the process.
- Once the conversion is complete, the site will provide a download link.
Pros:
- Supported Formats. Online video converter that supports a vast array of file formats for conversion, including audio, document, image, and more.
- Customization Options. The platform offers flexibility to customize conversion settings, allowing to adjust the output parameters such as resolution, bitrate, ratio, codec, and others.
- Batch Conversion. Offers batch processing, enabling users to change multiple MP4 files to MOV simultaneously.
Cons:
- Limited Free Usage. The application has certain limitations, such as file size restrictions (1 GB) and a limited number of conversions (25) per day.
- Slow Performance. Some users find that the utility can be slow, especially when dealing with large files or videos.
- Upload Glitches. The service sometimes fails to upload files correctly. Refreshing the webpage may be necessary to resolve this issue.
Zamzar
Zamzar is an online video converter that helps you turn files into different formats with ease. It's a convenient way to make your files compatible with various devices and applications without the hassle of downloading and installing software.
Follow the steps to change video format:
- Open your web browser and navigate to the Zamzar website.
- On the homepage, click the "Choose Files" to upload your MP4. Alternatively, you can drag and drop it directly into the designated area.
- Tap the dropdown menu next to "Convert to" to pick MOV as the desired output format.
- Initiate the process by hitting "Convert".
- Download the MOV file using the link provided.
Pros:
- User-Friendly Interface. Video file converter offers a straightforward and easy-to-use interface, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
- Extensive Format Support. Boasts compatibility with over 150 different formats, ensuring users can convert a wide range of multimedia files with ease.
- Instant Sharing. With FilePigeon's integrated email service, you can easily share your files with friends or colleagues.
Cons:
- Conversion Limits. Imposes restrictions on the number of free conversions allowed per day, limited to 5 operations.
- Bulk Processing. In the free version of this online video converter, users are unable to enjoy the convenience of multiple conversions, requiring them to convert each file individually.
- File Size. Free users face a 100 MB limit, making MP4 to MOV conversion challenging. Even registered users are capped at 1 GB, potentially restricting larger video files operation.
FreeConvert
FreeConvert is a valuable MP4 to MOV converter for users looking to convert files fast, whether for personal or professional use. The platform supports a wide range of file formats, ensuring versatility in handling different types of content.
See how you can transform MP4 into MOV:
- Head over to FreeConvert.
- Click the "Choose Files" button and select your MP4 file.
- Select "MOV" as your output format. Adjust the settings.
- Press "Convert" to start the operation.
- Once done, tap the "Download" button to save your converted MOV file.
Pros:
- No Software Installation. It is an online MP4 converter, which means that you can use it directly from your browser.
- Customization Options. Features such as adjusting frame rate, flipping, rotating video, and fading audio in/out provide flexibility and control over the final output.
Cons:
- Limitation on Free Usage. Restricts users to 25 conversions per day in its free version.
- Ads and Pop-Ups. Displays advertisements on its website, which can be distracting or intrusive for some users.
Bonus. How to convert MP4 to MOV manually?
Converting MP4 to MOV manually involves a straightforward process of changing the extension. This approach is recommended for converting smaller-sized videos on Windows 10 PCs.
Here's a step-by-step guide on MP4 to MOV conversion:
- Open Windows File Explorer and navigate to the desired MP4 video.
- Click the "Options" button under the "View" tab.
- In the "Folder Options" window, uncheck "Hide extensions for known file".
- Create a duplicate of the MP4 video by right-clicking on the file and selecting "Copy", then choose "Paste".
- Right-click on the copied video file and select "Rename".
- Change the file extension of the video from ".mp4" to ".mov".
- Press "Yes" to confirm the format change when prompted.
Pros:
- Quick and Free. This method is fast and doesn't require any additional MP4 converters, making it convenient and cost-effective.
- No Internet Connection Required. Since it's a manual process, there's no need for an internet connection, making it suitable for offline use.
Cons:
- Limited Compatibility. While changing the extension may work for some videos, it does not always produce a compatible or playable MOV file, especially for complex or high-quality clips.
- Risk of Data Loss. Incorrectly renaming the file extension could result in data loss or corruption, potentially rendering the video unusable.
MP4 vs MOV
If you're someone who frequently works with videos, you've probably come across these two file formats - MP4 and MOV. While both are widely used for storing and sharing videos, there are some key differences between the two.
| Feature | MP4 | MOV |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | MPEG-4 Part 14. | QuickTime Movie. |
| Developed By | Moving Picture Experts Group. | Apple Inc. |
| Compression | H.264/H.265. | H.264 or Apple ProRes. |
| File Size | Smaller due to efficient compression. | Larger due to less aggressive compression. |
| Codecs | - AAC - MP3 - ALAC - AC-3 - EAC3 - Opus - M4A | - AAC - ALAC - MP3 - AC-3 - EAC3 - Opus - AIF |
| Compatibility | Widely supported across platforms/devices. | Developed by Apple, commonly used on macOS. |
| Editing | Often used for streaming and web use, less suited for high-end editing. | Preferred for professional video editing and post-production due to higher quality. |
| Streaming | Optimized for streaming and online sharing. | Less optimized but good for high-quality storage. |
| Metadata Support | Limited. | Extensive (timecodes, chapters, and more). |
| File Header | Simple and efficient. | More complex. |
| Use Case | Ideal for online videos, streaming, and general playback. | Ideal for high-quality editing, archiving, and professional video work. |
This table highlights the distinct characteristics and use cases of MP4 and MOV formats, catering to different needs and preferences in video production, distribution, and editing.
While MP4 is widely utilized for online sharing, MOV is favored for professional playback, especially within the Apple ecosystem.
FAQ
- How long does it take to convert MP4 to MOV?
- The conversion time can vary depending on factors such as file size, computer processing power, and the method used. Generally, larger files or complex conversions may take a lot of time.
- Is there a difference in quality between MP4 and MOV?
- Both formats can preserve high-quality video and audio, but the difference lies in compatibility and metadata support rather than inherent quality differences.
- Will converting MP4 to MOV affect the file's metadata?
- It depends on the conversion tool you use. Some converters may preserve metadata, while others may not. Make sure to check the settings or options provided by the converter.
- Can I convert MOV back to MP4 if needed?
- Yes, the MOV to MP4 process can be done using similar conversion methods. However, keep in mind that each conversion may involve some loss of quality, so it's best to retain the original materials whenever possible.
Tips
- File size. Before converting MP4 to MOV, make sure the file size is within the limitations of the converter. If your video is too heavy, try to compress it.
- Output settings. Most converters offer the option to modify output parameters like resolution, frame rate, and audio quality. Make sure these settings match your preferences.
- Copies of the original files. It's always wise to keep backups of your original MP4 files in case something goes wrong during the conversion.
- Temporary files. Ensuring a smooth conversion, clear your browser's cache beforehand to prevent any technical hiccups or issues that may arise.
- Multiple converters. If one converter doesn't work for you, try using different ones until you find one that meets your needs.
- Copyrighted material. It's illegal to convert and distribute copyrighted material without permission, so make sure you're only processing files that you have the rights to.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing how to convert MP4 to MOV opens up a realm of possibilities for enhancing your multimedia experience. Whether you're aiming for seamless compatibility across devices or seeking to delve into professional video editing, the process offers versatility and convenience.
By following the outlined methods and considering the tips provided, you can navigate the MP4 to MOV conversion process with confidence, ensuring optimal results.
Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps
