10 Best MKV to MP4 Video Converters for Windows / Mac 2023

Introduction

In the modern digital world, we encounter an array of video formats daily. One such common format is Matroska Video, or MKV, known for its ability to hold unlimited numbers of video, audio, and subtitle tracks within a single file. However, despite its versatility, MKV is not universally supported across all devices and platforms. This is where the more universally accepted MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) format comes into play. The need to convert MKV to MP4 is a common requirement for many, as it ensures video content is accessible and usable across a multitude of platforms and devices.

The objective of this article is to guide you through the labyrinth of video conversion, specifically focusing on MKV to MP4. This year, 2023, has seen the advent of new technologies and software that have made the conversion process even more efficient. We will evaluate and compare the best MKV to MP4 converters available this year, shedding light on their features, pros and cons, and overall performance. By the end of this read, you will be well-equipped to choose the converter that fits your needs best, ensuring optimal video quality and a seamless viewing experience. Let's delve into the world of video format conversion.

Understanding MKV and MP4 Formats

MKV, short for Matroska Video, is an open standard free container format. It is named after the Russian nesting dolls known as Matroska, symbolizing how the format can contain various types of data like video, audio, images, and subtitle tracks. MKV files are highly versatile and can support a wide range of codecs. However, their complexity can often lead to compatibility issues with certain devices and media players.

On the other hand, MP4, standing for MPEG-4 Part 14, is a digital multimedia container format, much like MKV. It can store video, audio, and other data such as subtitles and still images. But what sets MP4 apart is its universal compatibility. It is widely accepted by almost all devices and media players, from smartphones and tablets to TVs and gaming consoles. It also maintains a balance between video size and quality, making it a preferred format for online streaming services, social media platforms, and other digital platforms.

Criteria for Evaluating Converters

Choosing an efficient converter tool requires a clear understanding of the evaluation criteria. These criteria provide a benchmark for comparison, allowing users to make an informed choice. In this review, we have evaluated the MKV to MP4 converters based on the following key aspects:

• Speed: The efficiency and speed of conversion without compromising on the quality of the output.
  
• Ease of Use: How intuitive and user-friendly the converter interface is, especially for first-time users.
  
• Video Quality: The ability to maintain, or even enhance, the original video quality after conversion.
  
• Additional Features: Functions like batch conversion, customization options, editing tools, and more that enhance the overall user experience.
  
• Price: While free tools are always a bonus, we also consider the value for money provided by premium tools.
  

Top MKV to MP4 Converters for Desktop 2023

As we venture into the specifics of the MKV to MP4 converters, we will focus on their unique attributes, their advantages, and potential drawbacks. We understand that each user may have specific requirements and preferences; hence, our list aims to address a diverse range of needs. Let's start with one of the top contenders.

1. Movavi Video Converter

Features :

Movavi Video Converter is a powerful tool, known for its lightning-fast conversion and support for a broad spectrum of video formats, not just MKV to MP4. It offers a simple and intuitive interface that makes navigation easy, even for novices. Beyond simple conversion, Movavi provides options for video editing, like cropping, rotating, adding watermarks, and adjusting audio levels. It also enables users to compress video files without losing quality, a feature highly appreciated by those dealing with large video files.

Pros:

• High-speed conversion with zero quality loss
• User-friendly interface
• Robust editing features
• Video compression ability
  

Cons:

• The free version has limited capabilities
• Some advanced features may require a learning curve for beginners
  

User Feedback and Ratings :

Users have given Movavi Video Converter high ratings, frequently citing its conversion speed, intuitive interface, and versatile editing features. It scores well in user satisfaction surveys and boasts a loyal customer base.

Price :

Movavi Video Converter offers a limited free version. However, for access to all the features, they offer a premium version priced at $49.95 for a lifetime license.

Next, we will delve into other options in the market, enabling you to make a more informed decision based on your specific requirements and preferences.

2. MPEG Streamclip

Features:

MPEG Streamclip is another top MKV to MP4 converter that caters to users who need a mix of conversion and editing features. This converter supports a wide range of formats, including but not limited to MKV and MP4. In terms of editing, users can cut, trim, and paste video clips, adjust playback speed, and maintain or alter aspect ratios. What sets MPEG Streamclip apart is its ability to download videos directly from the internet and convert them to the user's preferred format.

Pros:

• Supports a wide variety of video formats
• Robust editing features
• Ability to download and convert videos directly from the internet
• Free to use
  

Cons:

• The interface can be slightly intimidating for beginners
• It doesn't offer a built-in help section in the application, which might be challenging for non-tech-savvy users
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Most users appreciate MPEG Streamclip for its multifunctionality and the fact that it's free. They note the impressive range of features it offers despite being a no-cost tool. However, some users mention that the interface could be more beginner-friendly.

Price:

One of the significant advantages of MPEG Streamclip is that it is completely free. The developers provide it as freeware, meaning you can access all its features without any cost.

Our list continues to cover more MKV to MP4 converters, each with its unique offerings, enabling you to select the best-suited tool for your video conversion needs.

3. MediaCoder

Features:

MediaCoder stands out as a highly versatile and flexible MKV to MP4 converter. Not only does it handle a wide array of formats, but it also provides a host of transcoding features. Users can adjust and enhance the parameters of the video and audio streams, including bitrate, frame rate, sampling rate, and resolution. MediaCoder also supports advanced features like video trimming, audio normalization, and noise reduction.

Pros:

• Advanced transcoding features
• Supports a broad spectrum of video formats
• Offers several video and audio enhancements
  

Cons:

• The interface might be complex for beginners
• Some features may be hard to understand without technical knowledge
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

MediaCoder garners positive reviews for its advanced features and flexibility. Users particularly commend its wide range of supported formats and customization options. On the other hand, beginners sometimes find the software a bit complex due to the multitude of options and settings.

Price:

MediaCoder is free to use, but it offers a premium version with more advanced features and technical support. The price for the premium version varies based on the features and support package chosen.

Stay tuned as we continue to review and compare more MKV to MP4 converters, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your conversion needs.

4. VideoProc Converter

Features:

VideoProc Converter is a feature-rich tool that stands out in the realm of MKV to MP4 converters. It supports over 370 input codecs and over 420 output formats, making it a versatile choice for conversion tasks. With VideoProc, you get a clean and intuitive interface that streamlines the conversion process. Its key features include high-speed conversion, video editing functions, screen recording, and a unique feature that enables downloading from over 1000 online video hosting sites.

Pros:

• Wide range of supported formats
• High-speed conversion using Level-3 Hardware Acceleration
• Video editing and screen recording functions
• Ability to download videos directly from various websites
  

Cons:

• The free version has some limitations, such as a maximum limit for video downloads
• Advanced editing features may have a learning curve for new users
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Users typically commend VideoProc Converter for its ease of use and the multitude of features it offers. It scores high on user satisfaction for its versatility and high-speed conversion. Some users, however, mention that they would appreciate an even more extensive range of editing features.

Price:

VideoProc Converter offers a free version with basic features. For additional features and enhancements, they have a premium version. Pricing for the premium version starts at $29.95 for a yearly license, with a lifetime license option also available.

As we continue to explore the myriad of MKV to MP4 converters available in 2023, we aim to provide comprehensive insights to help you make an informed choice. Up next, we delve into more great options to consider.

5. VLC

Features:

VLC is a well-known name in the world of media players, but its functionality extends to video conversion as well, making it an excellent tool for converting MKV to MP4. This open-source software supports numerous formats and allows for a variety of advanced customization options during the conversion process. In addition, VLC provides features such as video and audio filters, synchronization options, and subtitle compatibility.

Pros:

• Supports a multitude of video formats
• Advanced customization options
• Functions as both a media player and converter
• Completely free and open-source
  

Cons:

• The interface can be somewhat outdated and less intuitive compared to other converters
• The conversion process may be slower compared to specialized converter tools
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

VLC often receives positive feedback from users for its robust features and the fact that it's completely free. Its reliability and open-source nature make it a favorite among tech-savvy users. However, some users note that the interface could be more intuitive and user-friendly.

Price:

VLC is completely free. As open-source software, it’s developed and maintained by a community of volunteer programmers who work to keep it updated and add new features.

In the next section, we will compare these converters to help you decide which tool best fits your specific conversion needs.

Top MKV to MP4 Converters for Mac 2023

As we continue exploring the best MKV to MP4 converters, we now turn our attention to options that are particularly well-suited to Mac users. These converters cater to the macOS environment, ensuring smooth and seamless operation.

6. CloudConvert

Features:

CloudConvert stands out as a web-based converter, eliminating the need for downloading software and making it an excellent choice for Mac users. The converter supports over 200 file formats, including MKV and MP4. Beyond file conversion, it allows for certain adjustments such as changing the screen size, modifying the bit rate, and setting the video codec of the output file. It's a handy tool for those who prefer to perform conversions directly in their browser.

Pros:

• No software installation required
• Wide range of supported formats
• Ability to customize the output file
• Allows for batch conversion
  

Cons:

• Requires an internet connection to function
• Large files may take longer to upload and convert
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Users frequently commend CloudConvert for its ease of use and the convenience of being web-based. However, some users have mentioned that large file conversions can be time-consuming due to the requirement to first upload the file to the platform.

Price:

CloudConvert offers a free tier with limited daily conversion minutes. For more heavy-duty usage, they offer paid plans starting from $8 per month, which provides a higher number of conversion minutes and priority support.

As we move forward, we will explore more options for Mac users to find a converter that perfectly fits their requirements. Stay tuned for our upcoming reviews.

7. FreeConvert

Features:

FreeConvert, as the name suggests, is a free online conversion tool that's highly compatible with Mac systems. It supports a broad range of video formats, including MKV and MP4. FreeConvert stands out for its simple, user-friendly interface that guides users through the conversion process. In addition to basic conversion, this tool provides options for editing the video, such as cropping, filtering, and adjusting video parameters like bitrate and frame rate.

Pros:

• Straightforward, user-friendly interface
• Provides additional video editing features
• No need for software installation
  

Cons:

• The file size limit in the free version
• Internet connection required for conversion
• Speed can be influenced by your internet connection
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Many users appreciate FreeConvert's ease of use and the fact that it doesn't require any software installation. The editing options provided are often praised as being a beneficial addition. However, some users note that the file size limitation on the free version can be restrictive for larger videos.

Price:

FreeConvert, as the name indicates, offers free conversion services, but with a file size limit. For larger files and more advanced features, they provide a premium plan. Pricing details for the premium plan can be found on their website.

Stay tuned as we continue to examine the top MKV to MP4 converters of 2023, with special attention to the needs of Mac users.

8. ConvertFiles

Features:

ConvertFiles is another web-based tool, highly effective for Mac users looking to convert MKV to MP4. The converter supports a wide array of formats and is praised for its simplicity. It has a straightforward process: you upload the file, choose the output format, and start the conversion. There's no need for technical knowledge, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a hassle-free conversion.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use interface
• No software installation required
• Support for numerous file formats
  

Cons:

• The conversion speed depends on the file size and internet connection
• Does not provide any editing or customization options
• The interface may seem outdated compared to other modern converters

User Feedback and Ratings:

Users appreciate ConvertFiles for its simplicity and the fact that it's free to use. However, some users have mentioned that the lack of editing or customization options could be a downside, especially for more advanced users.

Price:

ConvertFiles is a free online tool. It does not currently offer any premium plans or features.

Our exploration of top MKV to MP4 converters for Mac continues, and we will delve into more options that cater specifically to Mac users. Keep reading to find the converter that perfectly fits your needs.

9. Converter App

Features:

Converter App is a desktop-based software specifically designed for Mac users. It prides itself on supporting a wide range of file formats, including MKV to MP4 conversion. It offers an intuitive interface that even beginners can navigate with ease. Its standout features include high-speed conversions, batch conversion capabilities, and basic editing tools such as cropping, merging, and adding watermarks.

Pros:

• Fast conversion speeds
• User-friendly interface
• Batch conversion capabilities
• Basic editing tools included
  

Cons:

• The free version has limited functionalities
• Advanced editing features are not available
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Users appreciate Converter App for its simplicity and the speed of its conversions. However, some users wish it offered more advanced editing options.

Price:

Converter App offers a free version with basic functionalities. A premium version, with more advanced features and higher speed conversions, is available for purchase. Pricing can be found on their official website.

We will continue to explore more MKV to MP4 converters, specifically catering to the needs of Mac users. Keep reading for a comprehensive comparison and to find the converter that suits you best.

10. Zamzar

Features:

Zamzar is an online conversion tool that is highly favored by Mac users due to its compatibility with a wide range of file formats, including MKV to MP4. The user interface is clear and straightforward, requiring only a few steps to achieve a successful conversion. Its primary appeal lies in its ability to convert files without the need to download and install any software. Additionally, Zamzar supports the conversion of other file types such as documents, images, and music files, adding to its versatility.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• No software installation required
• Supports a wide variety of file formats
• Allows for online storage and management of converted files
  

Cons:

• Conversion speed can be slow for larger files
• The free version has limitations in file size
• No editing or customization options are available
  

User Feedback and Ratings:

Users generally appreciate Zamzar for its easy-to-use interface and the broad range of supported file formats. However, some users express dissatisfaction with the slow conversion speed for larger files and the limitations of the free version.

Price:

Zamzar offers free conversions with limited file sizes. For larger files and additional features such as online storage and faster conversion speeds, they offer premium plans. Pricing for the premium plans can be found on their website.

This completes our list of top MKV to MP4 converters for Mac users in 2023. Next, we will provide a comprehensive comparison to help you decide the best fit for your specific conversion needs.

Special Mention: VLC as an MKV to MP4 Converter

Though we've touched on VLC as a converter in our list, it's worth highlighting due to its ubiquity and versatility. Originally designed as a media player, VLC also offers a reliable conversion function. Let's delve into the steps to convert using VLC and its pros and cons as a converter.

How to convert using VLC:

• Open VLC and navigate to "Media" in the top menu, then select "Convert/Save".
  
• In the "Open Media" dialog box that appears, click "Add" to choose the MKV file you want to convert.
  
• After adding the file, click on "Convert/Save".
  
• Under "Profile", choose MP4 as the output format.
  
• Specify your desired destination folder and filename for the converted file.
  
• Click "Start" to begin the conversion.
  

Pros and Cons of VLC for Conversion:

Pros:

• Free and open-source software
• Supports a multitude of formats
• Can also function as a media player
  

Cons:

• The conversion process may not be as intuitive as specialized converters
• Limited advanced features compared to other converters
  

Comparison of Converters

Now that we've explored the top MKV to MP4 converters in detail, it's time for a comparative overview.

From the table, it's clear that all the converters have their strengths and weaknesses. High-speed converters like Movavi, MediaCoder, and VideoProc might be ideal for those in need of quick results, while VLC, CloudConvert, and FreeConvert may be more suited to those seeking a free solution. The choice of converter should align with your specific needs, whether it's speed, cost, ease of use, or additional features.

Choosing the Right Converter

Choosing the right MKV to MP4 converter requires careful consideration of several factors. The "best" converter can vary greatly depending on an individual's specific needs and circumstances. Here are some key factors to consider:

• User's Needs: What is your primary requirement? Is it high-speed conversion, the highest possible output quality, batch conversions, or editing features? Identify your needs first.
  
• File Size: Some converters handle large files more efficiently than others. If you frequently deal with large video files, choose a converter that can manage large file sizes without compromising on speed or quality.
  
• Convenience: Consider the ease of use. A user-friendly interface can save you time and make the process more enjoyable. Also, consider whether you want a desktop tool or a web-based tool.
  
• Budget: While there are plenty of free converters available, paid converters often provide more advanced features. Assess your budget and decide accordingly.
  

Impact of Conversion on Video and Audio Quality

When converting from MKV to MP4, video and audio quality can be affected. This is due to the different video codecs used in each format and the conversion process itself. Generally, high-quality converters manage to preserve the original quality during conversion, and some may even enhance it.

Different converters manage quality preservation in different ways. Some use advanced encoding algorithms to ensure minimal quality loss, while others offer adjustable quality settings, allowing users to customize the output quality according to their preferences.

Understanding Video Codecs and Conversion

Video codecs play a significant role in the conversion process. A codec, or "coder-decoder", is software used to compress and decompress digital video. When converting from MKV to MP4, the video data is decompressed from the MKV codec and then recompressed into the MP4 codec.

Different converters handle codecs in various ways. Some converters, like Movavi and MediaCoder, support a broad range of codecs, making them versatile choices. Others, like VLC, have fewer supported codecs but are usually compatible with the most commonly used ones. When choosing a converter, it's important to ensure it supports the codec of your input video format and the desired output format.

Batch Conversion and Efficiency

Batch conversion, the ability to convert multiple files at once, can be a major timesaver if you frequently deal with multiple video files. This feature allows you to queue multiple MKV files and convert them to MP4 format in a single operation, as opposed to converting each file individually.

Analyzing the batch conversion capabilities of our reviewed converters, Movavi, MediaCoder, and VideoProc stand out for their efficient batch conversion features. VLC, while supporting batch conversion, may not be as efficient or intuitive to use for this purpose.

Conversion Speed and Performance

Conversion speed can greatly impact user experience, especially when handling larger video files. From our reviewed list, Movavi and VideoProc come out on top for their high-speed conversions, thanks to the use of advanced hardware acceleration technologies. VLC and online converters, such as CloudConvert, Zamzar, and FreeConvert, can be slower, especially with larger files or slower internet connections.

Converter performance can be influenced by computer resources. Converters that use hardware acceleration technologies can leverage your computer's GPU to speed up the conversion process, delivering quicker results without overloading your CPU.

Compatibility with Different Operating Systems

Choosing a converter compatible with your operating system is essential for seamless operation. All our reviewed converters are compatible with Windows and macOS. VLC, being an open-source tool, also supports Linux.

For Windows users, all listed options should work fine. For macOS users, all listed options are viable, but the web-based converters may be particularly convenient due to their OS-independent nature. Linux users might find VLC to be the most compatible option.

Customer Support and Community

Customer support can significantly enhance user experience, particularly for beginners or when encountering technical difficulties. Among the converters we reviewed, companies like Movavi, VideoProc, and MediaCoder offer detailed guides, FAQs, and direct customer support to assist users.

An active community forum is equally crucial, as it provides a platform for users to share their experiences, offer solutions, and troubleshoot common issues. Open-source software like VLC often has robust community forums due to its wide user base and open-source nature.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While video conversion is a commonly used tool for personal and professional purposes, it's essential to consider legal and ethical aspects. Converting videos should only be done for files that you own or have permission to modify. Downloading or converting copyrighted content without permission is illegal and against the terms of service of most video-sharing platforms.

When using converters, always respect copyright laws. Do not distribute converted videos without obtaining the necessary permissions from the copyright holder. Use these tools responsibly, primarily for personal use and without infringing upon copyrights.

Future Trends in Video Conversion

The realm of video conversion is constantly evolving, influenced by advancements in technology and changes in user behavior. Some potential future trends in this field include

• Increased Efficiency: As technology advances, converters are likely to become even faster and more efficient, particularly for high-definition and 4K video files.
  
• Improved Quality: We can anticipate enhancements in conversion algorithms, leading to improved video and audio quality after conversion.
  
• Cloud-based Solutions: With the rise of cloud computing, more converters may become cloud-based, allowing users to convert files without taxing their device's resources.
  
• Advanced Editing Features: As video content creation becomes more popular, converters may include more advanced editing features to cater to content creators.

These trends will likely influence the choice of converters in the future, emphasizing speed, efficiency, and additional features.

User Testimonials and Case Studies

Here is a compilation of user testimonials about their experiences with the converters:

• Movavi User: "Movavi has made my life easier. It's fast and produces high-quality conversions. I also love the editing features it offers."
  
• MPEG Streamclip User: "As a free tool, it's excellent. I can convert and edit my videos all in one place. It's a bit complex at first, but once you get the hang of it, it's fantastic."
  
• VLC User: "VLC is not just a media player. Its conversion feature is a lifesaver, especially because it's free. It might not be the fastest, but it gets the job done."
  
• Case Study: A video content creator was struggling with compatibility issues while trying to upload his MKV videos to an online platform. After using the Movavi Video Converter, he could quickly convert his videos to MP4 format and upload them without any issues. The converter preserved the video quality, and the fast conversion speed saved him a lot of time.
  

Conclusion

The digital world is a constant evolution, and tools that can help us adapt to this ever-changing environment are invaluable. One such area of technology is video converters - more specifically, MKV to MP4 converters.

Throughout this article, we've dissected the intricate world of video conversion, delving into the advantages of MP4 format over MKV, exploring a multitude of available converters, and examining their unique features, pros, cons, and pricing. We also highlighted the importance of considering factors like user needs, file size, convenience, and budget when choosing a converter.

We dove into how different converters preserve or enhance video and audio quality and the role of video codecs in the conversion process. The discussion further extended to the impact of conversion speed, performance, OS compatibility, and customer support on the user experience. Legal and ethical aspects of video conversion and emerging trends in the field were also part of our comprehensive analysis.

From the multi-feature-packed Movavi Video Converter to the renowned VLC and online solutions like CloudConvert and Zamzar, each converter brings something unique to the table. The choice ultimately boils down to what suits your specific needs the best.

Whether you're a professional needing advanced features and speedy conversions or a beginner looking for a free and straightforward solution, there's a converter out there tailored for you. We hope this guide proves instrumental in helping you navigate the world of MKV to MP4 converters.

In a digital age where content is king, may you continue to create, convert, and share your videos with ease and efficiency. Happy converting!