MKV is a popular video container format that can store numerous audio tracks, subtitle formats, and additional metadata in one file without compromising quality. This makes it perfect for movies, multilingual content, and professional or archive purposes. Despite its exceptional versatility, this format lacks effect when it comes to compatibility.
Many devices, applications, websites, and media players do not fully accept MKV files, but MP4 is widely supported on phones, televisions, web browsers, social media platforms, and editing tools. As a result, many individuals convert MKV to MP4 so that their videos can be played, uploaded, shared, and edited without issues.
What are the Differences Between MKV and MP4?
Before converting files, it is critical to grasp the distinction between MKV and MP4. Both formats have different quality, compatibility, and functionality. Knowing these distinctions can help you determine whether conversion is essential for your requirements. To make things easier, the table below clearly defines the significant differences.
| Feature / Aspect | MKV (Matroska Video) | MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) |
| Primary Purpose | Store high-quality videos with multiple features | Deliver videos that work everywhere |
| Video Quality | Supports very high-quality and lossless content | High-quality with better compression |
| Compatibility | Limited support on some devices and browser | Works on almost all devices and platforms |
| Functions | Multiple audio tracks, subtitles, chapters | Simple video and audio playback |
| Subtitle Support | Advanced subtitle formats (soft & hard subs) | Basic subtitle support |
| File Size | Usually larger due to extra data | Usually smaller and optimized |
| Editing & Flexibility | Highly flexible and customized | Limited customization |
| Streaming support | Not ideal for online streaming | Excellent for streaming and sharing |
| Common Business Use | Film studios, video editors archivist | Social media, marketing devices websites. |
Most Common Reasons MKV Users Prefer Converting Their Videos to MP4
Many MKV users choose to convert their videos to MP4 to overcome compatibility and usability challenges. While MKV is ideal for high-quality, feature-rich content, MP4 allows for smooth playback across multiple platforms, as well as easy sharing and editing. Understanding the primary reasons for conversion allows consumers to make more informed decisions and enjoy their videos without technical limits or interruptions.
- Wider Device Compatibility: MP4 is compatible with a wider range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, televisions, media players, and web browsers, but MKV may not be.
- Ease of Sharing and Uploading: Most social media platforms, video-sharing websites, and messaging applications accept MP4, making uploading and sharing simple.
- Smaller File Size: MP4 uses efficient compression to reduce file size while retaining high quality, making it perfect for storage and streaming.
- Simplified Editing: Most video editing software supports MP4, while MKV may have additional converting processes before editing.
- Streaming Optimization: MP4 is suitable for online streaming due to its extensive support and fast buffering, whereas MKV is better suited for archive purposes.
3 Effective Methods for Converting MKV to MP4 Without Losing Quality
The following steps will show you how to convert MKV to MP4 without losing quality using three different methods. Read about the differences between these three ways and select the one that works best for your device. To achieve the greatest results, ensure that you follow the method thoroughly and correctly.
Method 1: Convert MKV to MP4 using Shutter Encoder
The shutter encoder is a user-friendly program that converts MKV to MP4 without sacrificing quality. Ideal for people who prefer a visual interface and wish to adjust the subtitles and audio tracks. Shutter Encoder is an excellent alternative if you are new to video conversion or require a simple, quick, and dependable solution.
- Start the process by downloading Shutter Encoder.
- Once it is installed completely, open the software.
- Click on Browse and select your MKV file.
- From the Function menu, choose the Rewrap.
- Then, click on the MP4 as the format.
- Now, hit the Start Function option.
- Patiently wait for a few seconds until you get prompted, ‘Your MP4 files are ready.’
Method 2: Convert MKV to MP4 with VLC Media Player
VLC is a free and popular media player that also converts MKV to MP4. It’s simple for novices and works on most devices; however, some quality loss may occur. This method is ideal for those who already have VLC installed and require a quick, no-installation alternative for easy conversions.
- First open the VLC Media Player on your device.
- Now, click on the Media option and choose the Convert or Save tab.
- Select the Add and click on your MKV File.
- Here, hit the Convert/Save tab again.
- Select the MP4 as the output format.
- Choose the MP4 as the output format and select the Destination Folder.
- Complete the process by hitting the Start tab, and you now easily enjoy the functions of MP4.
Method 3: Convert MKV to MP4 Using FFmpeg
FFmpeg is a command-line utility for converting MKV to MP4 with high quality. It’s ideal for advanced users or those seeking quick, professional results. While it needs inputting commands, FFmpeg is the ideal option for users that value speed, precision, and high-quality output.
- First and foremost, install FFmpeg on your device.
- Place your MKV file in the FFmpeg folder.
- Here, open the Command Prompt on your Windows or Terminal (Mac/Linux).
- Now, type this command: ffmpeg -i input.mkv -c copy output.mp4.
- Then, press the Enter tab, and your MP4 file will be created instantly.
End note!
We hope the solutions shared above help you convert MKV to MP4 with the least effort. Converting your video allows you to enjoy full compatibility across practically every device and platform, from smartphones and tablets to TVs and web browsers. MP4 allows you to easily share, stream, and edit your movies while preserving high quality, guaranteeing that your content is accessible at any time and from any location, without the stress of playback issues or unsupported formats.
