How to Convert Recorded Videos: Fast Way
Knowing how to convert video recordings to different formats offers versatility and compatibility across various platforms and devices. Whether it's to save space on your device or change to a format compatible with editing software, the reasons are diverse.
In this article, we explore a simple technique for seamlessly changing the format of recorded videos within the free screen capture software for Windows. From enhancing accessibility to ensuring quality, mastering this process empowers users to effectively utilize and distribute their content.
Join us as we delve into the art of video conversion.
Can a screen recorder convert videos?
Most screen recorders have a designated format in which all the videos are saved. For instance, QuickTime Player records in MOV, the default OBS recording format is MKV, etc. If the assigned file type is not what you need it to be, you will have to get a free video converter.
To avoid this hassle and have the flexibility of changing the formats of your videos without additional programs, you can get a screen recording app that has the capability to convert videos within itself. One such software is the Icecream Screen Recorder.
Please note that the converting feature is available only for the videos that were recorded with Icecream Screen Recorder.
How to convert recorded videos?
- Download the Windows screen recorder and install it. Launch the program.
- Complete the screen recording process.
- Once finished, the video will be saved in the "History" panel of the program. In that panel, locate the needed recorded video. Next to it, you will see the pencil icon. Click it.
- The video editor panel will be opened. Next to the "Filename" field, there is the "Format" dropdown list. Pick the desired output format.
- Hit "Save". Your recording is converted.
Conversion formats
This Windows screen recorder allows you to convert your videos to WebM, MOV, MP4, AVI, or GIF format. Pick the one that suits your needs.
| Format | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| WebM | Open-source format optimized for web use. | High quality, small file sizes, VP8/VP9 codec. | Limited support on some platforms, not widely used. |
| MOV | Proprietary format developed by Apple. | High quality, supported on all Apple devices. | Limited support on non-Apple platforms. |
| MP4 | Universal format compatible with most platforms. | Excellent compatibility, good quality, widely used. | May be much larger in size compared to some other formats. |
| AVI | Older format with wide compatibility. | Lossless compression, supported by most devices and programs. | Large file size, inferior compression efficiency. |
| GIF | Image format with limited animation capabilities. | Supports animation, widely supported for simple loops. | Limited color depth, large file sizes for videos. |
What are codecs?
Codecs (short for coder-decoders) are algorithms or software used to compress and decompress digital media files, particularly audio and video.
When you create, play, or convert a video file, a codec is involved in encoding (compressing) or decoding (decompressing) the data.
The choice of codec affects the final output’s quality, size, and playback compatibility across different devices and media players.
For example, H.265 (HEVC) is more efficient than H.264, allowing for higher quality at lower bitrates.
Capabilities of the screen recorder
- User-Centric Design. The screen recorder has an intuitive interface, suitable even for those unfamiliar with technologies.
- Flexible Recording Options. The video recording software enables users to record the entire screen or select specific areas, which is ideal for crafting targeted tutorials.
- Comprehensive Audio Recording. Users can seamlessly capture system sounds, microphone input, or both, enhancing the quality of recorded videos.
- Dynamic Annotation Tools. Real-time drawing capabilities empower creators to add annotations on-the-go, enriching tutorial videos with interactive elements.
- Accessible Free Version. A free version with essential features is available, catering to users with budget constraints.
Other tools of the built-in video editor
- Trim. Users can cut out specific sections of their video footage, removing unwanted content or refining the duration of their recordings prior to exporting.
- Audio. This functionality enables users to mute the audio, allowing them to preserve only the video content.
- Speed. Users can alter the playback speed of their videos, either slowing down or speeding up the footage, which can be useful for emphasizing certain moments or condensing lengthy content.
- Size (resolution). This feature helps users adjust the resolution or dimensions of their videos, optimizing them for specific platforms or devices and ensuring optimal visual quality and file size.
FAQ
- Are there any limitations to converting screen recordings?
- Limitations may include potential loss of quality, particularly when converting to lower resolutions. Compatibility issues with certain file formats or software may arise, and longer processing times might be required for high-resolution videos.
- Can I convert screen recordings to different resolutions?
- Yes, screen recordings can be converted to different resolutions using video editing software. This flexibility ensures compatibility with various devices and platforms, optimizing viewing quality for smartphones, tablets, or desktops.
- Can I save the screen recording in a specific file size?
- Screen recordings can be compressed to specific file sizes using various techniques such as video codecs and bitrates. This helps reduce storage requirements and facilitates faster sharing or uploading processes while maintaining acceptable quality for viewing or playback.
Conclusion
In summary, knowing how to convert recorded videos is crucial for making them work well on different platforms. By changing formats, improving quality, and adjusting sizes, you can reach more people with your content.
So, learn to use this screen recorder and its features to make the most of your videos.
