How to Convert Video to MP4 on Windows 11: Complete Guide

Convert a video to MP4 in Windows 11 It is a simpler task than it seems if you know the right tools and some TricksIn this guide, you'll find options for all profiles: from those who want something quick in two clicks to those who need full control over codecs, quality, and file size.

In addition to explaining How to use VLC, Movavi, HandBrake, FFmpeg, and various online converters, you will also see what it offers Windows 11 series, which format is best for you in each case, and what settings make the difference in final quality. All with clear steps, practical recommendations, and no hassle.

What you need to know before converting: MP4, AVI, and MPEG on Windows 11

MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) is a multimedia container capable of storing video, audio, images and metadata; it works with modern codecs such as H.264/AVC or H.265/HEVC, which translates into smaller files at the same quality and huge compatibility with mobile phones, TVs, browsers and players.

For its part, REVIEWS It's a classic container promoted by Microsoft that can host a multitude of different codecs. This flexibility is its strong point, but also its Achilles heel: if a device does not have the exact codec, the video may not play or may have sync issues.

As for the MPEG (usually .mpg or .mpeg), is usually associated with older compression methods such as MPEG-1 or MPEG-2, which are valid for DVDs or broadcasts, but less efficient than H.264/HEVC. Therefore, upgrading from MPEG/AVI to MP4 with an updated codec reduces weight and improves compatibility without sacrificing perceptible quality.

A practical idea: Two files can weigh different only because of the codec. An AVI with DivX and MP3 It won't have the same bit rate or efficiency as an MP4 with H.264 and AAC, so a well-configured conversion is key to achieving the right balance between size and quality.

Best practices for Windows 11: from simple to advanced

In Windows 11 you have several routes to convert to MP4: apps free like VLC or HandBrake, powerful paid solutions like Movavi or WinX, online tools when you don't want to install anything, and even ffmpeg if you prefer the line of commands.

Before going into detail, keep in mind that some online utilities limit the size (150 MB, 250 MB, 1 GB, depending on the service) and that free tools like Freemake can add watermark if you don't upgrade to the paid version.

Convert to MP4 with VLC on Windows 11

VLC Media Player It's not just an all-rounder: it's also a very capable converter with preconfigured profiles and basic editing. If you already have it installed, you will save time avoiding downloading another application.

Quick steps with VLC on Windows 11: Open the Media menu and press Convert/Save (shortcut Ctrl + R). In the pop-up window, add one or more videos you want to convert. VLC allows for batch conversion queues, ideal if you have multiple clips.

Then press Convert / Save and choose an output profile. For maximum compatibility, the usual is Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4). If you want to fine-tune, click the wrench icon to edit the profile, choose codecs, adjust resolution, bitrate or apply simple filters.

When you have it, mark the destination route in Exploring and press StartVLC will run the conversion and save the file to the specified folder, respecting any profile changes (e.g., lower resolution or FPS) if you configured them.

Movavi Video Converter: Fast, easy, and packed with extra features

Movavi Video Converter It stands out for its ease of use, support for more than 180 formats and additional options such as cropping, small effects, adaptation to devices and acceleration by hardwareIt's a solution very focused on users who want fast, high-quality results.

Here's how to do it in 5 steps: Download and install Movavi, open the app and tap Add Video to upload your file. Select the MP4 output format and adjust the quality if desired. Finally, click Convert and wait for it to finish. When it's finished, you will find the new MP4 in the destination folder you have chosen.

If you work with many different formats or need to control the size/quality ratio for social media, streaming or specific devices, Movavi simplifies the task with ready-made profiles and intuitive settings.

HandBrake: Total control with open source software

HandBrake It's a free converter that's popular with advanced users. It allows you to convert to MP4/MKV with a very high level of detail: presets per device, bitrate control, sampling, filters (deinterlacing, scaling and cropping), H.264/HEVC codecs, among others.

Basic usage: Drag the video into HandBrake or go to File to import it. In short, choose MP4 as the format. From Preset, select a profile that suits your purpose (e.g., 1080p or compatible with a device). Tap Start coding and let it work. It will take longer than with a simple remux, but you will have fine quality control.

FFmpeg: Maximum power from the command line

If you are not afraid of it terminal, ffmpeg It offers the most flexible and scriptable conversion. It's cross-platform, supports almost any format, and lets you automate batches. optimize for H.264/HEVC and adjust every imaginable parameter.

Typical flow on Windows 11: install FFmpeg, open a console in the video folder (cd "path"), and run a command like this ffmpeg -hide_banner -i «input.avi» «output.mp4». You can customize codec, bitrate, resolution, audio, etc. It takes practice, but unrivaled in versatility.

Online converters: practical when you don't want to install anything

Web services are useful for one-time conversions, when your PC is low on space or if you're working with small files. Just check the size limits and respect your data privacy.

• Zamzar: free conversion without registration, but with a limit of 150 MB. It does not offer modern codecs like HEVC or advanced settings.
• 123Apps: Supports more than 300 formats and supports MP4 with HEVC codecApproximately 2 GB limit; simple interface and options to change resolution and codecs.
• CloudConvert: very flexible (documents, images, audio, video). In the free plan you can convert up to 1 GB per file in 10-minute sessions. Allows you to adjust fps, resolution, and aspect ratio.
• ConvertFiles: simple, free, maximum 250 MB per file. Few advanced options, but fast for basic tasks.
• FreeFileConvert: until 5 files per batch with a total of 300 MB. Ad-supported interface and no advanced codec controls.
• FreeConvert: 1GB limit in free mode, 25 conversions/month and useful options (crop, rotate, change codecs) with paid plans for more minutes and no ads.

In general, if your file is large or you need maximum control over quality, it's better to use desktop software. For a short clip, online services are an excellent shortcut.

What does Windows 11 offer without installing anything?

Windows 11 includes utilities that can get you out of a bind. Photos app allows for small adjustments and simple exports: open Photos, upload your video, go to Edit & Create and use Save As to generate a copy in the available format, or convert it with convert it with Clipchamp on Windows 11.

Also, you have Movies & TV (now Media Player) and the new Windows Media Player, which focus on playback and basic editing (trimming, adjusting volume). They are useful for small tasks, although they are no substitute for a dedicated converter when you need profiles, codecs, or fine compression.

Detailed Guide: VLC Step-by-Step with Profiles and Basic Editing

1) Install or update VLC from the Microsoft Store or its official website. 2) Open VLC and go to File/Media > Convert/Save (Ctrl + R). 3) Add one or more videos; VLC can process them sequentially.

In the conversion window, select a profileA profile is a package of settings (video and audio codec, encapsulation, filters). Choose a predefined one or edit it with the Wrench to change resolution, bitrate, filters, audio or subtitles. Save the profile with a recognizable name for reuse it when you need it.

Then press Exploring to choose the destination folder. Check that the Convert option is checked and click on StartThe preview will appear in the VLC timeline; once it's finished, you'll find the MP4 where you specified.

Helpful tip: Create multiple profiles (e.g., 1080p H.264 at 6–8 Mbps; 720p H.264 at 3–4 Mbps) and alternate depending on the material. This way you'll reduce the size without losing visual quality.

Quick Start: Convert with Movavi Video Converter

1) Download and install the app. 2) Open Movavi and tap Add Video to upload your files. 3) Choose MP4 in the output options and adjust the quality control if you need to.

4) If you wish, cut segments, change resolution or apply a profile per device to ensure compatibility (for example, iPhone, TV, social media). 5) Click Convert and wait for it to finish. You'll get an MP4 ready to play on almost any device.

Advantage: With its GPU acceleration, Movavi accelerates significantly conversion versus purely CPU solutions, especially in large batches or high resolutions.

Convert AVI/MPEG to MP4: Options and Quality Notes

If you part of REVIEWS o MPEG, you have several alternatives. For the simplest, VLC or an online service may suffice. If you're looking for quality excellence or you need to touch each parameter, pull HandBrake, WinX or FFmpeg.

Some tools allow copy the video stream (remux) without re-encoding when the codec already supports MP4. If your source is suitable, enabling an option like Copy/Auto Copy reduces There in seconds and avoid losses, although it will not always be possible.

In fine-tuning, H.264 is the most compatible bet and HEVC achieves better compression with equal quality, at the cost of higher CPU load and less support on older devices. At the audio level, AAC is the perfect companion to MP4 due to its good balance between size and fidelity.

Tips to get it right the first time

• Free space: Make sure you have disk headroom, especially if you're working with 4K or large batches.
• Compatibility: Uses H.264 + AAC in MP4 container to ensure playback on mobile devices, Smart TV and browsers.
• Quality- Adjust bitrate or use constant quality control; test short clips to calibrated before converting everything.
• Watermarks- Check the limitations of free versions (e.g. Freemake) to avoid surprises.
• Online services: Respect their limits (150 MB, 250 MB, 1 GB) and avoid uploading sensitive videos if you are concerned about privacy.
• Reusable profiles: In VLC or HandBrake, save profiles for speed up future work with the same configuration.
• GPU acceleration: When available, enabling this option will reduce CPU usage and time on compatible devices.

With the options you have seen, in Windows 11 you can convert to MP4 quickly, either with Integrated tools, free apps like VLC/HandBrake or more comprehensive solutions like MovaviChoose the method that best suits your file size, your speed, and the quality you're looking for. With a well-chosen profile and a few tests, you'll have light, sharp, and compatible videos.

Isaac

Passionate writer about the world of bytes and technology in general. I love sharing my knowledge through writing, and that's what I'll do on this blog, show you all the most interesting things about gadgets, software, hardware, tech trends, and more. My goal is to help you navigate the digital world in a simple and entertaining way.