How to use the M4V to MP4 converter
- Choose your M4V video or drop it on the box.
- Check the settings. "Same as original" resolution is fastest and lets fast mode copy compatible videos without re-encoding. Lower it to 720p for a smaller file.
- Click "Convert to MP4". A progress meter shows how far along it is.
- Download your MP4.
Why convert M4V to MP4?
M4V and MP4 are almost identical inside. Renaming does not always work because some apps check the format, so converting M4V to MP4 properly is the safe route.
- M4V: purchased M4V files are copy-protected.
- MP4: plays almost everywhere.
- MP4: good quality at small sizes with H.264.
Home-made M4V files are copied straight into MP4 in seconds. Purchased iTunes movies are copy-protected and cannot be converted.
M4V vs MP4
| M4V | MP4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Apple MPEG-4 Video | MPEG-4 Part 14 |
| Type | Video | Video |
| Created by | Apple (2003) | Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) (2001) |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | H.264 + AAC | H.264 + AAC |
| Best for | iTunes and Apple TV video libraries and Handbrake exports | Sharing videos online, phone recordings, social media uploads and streaming |
| Plays on | Apple devices, iTunes, VLC and most MP4 players | Windows, macOS, iPhone, Android, smart TVs, game consoles and every modern browser |
Does converting M4V to MP4 lose quality?
Often none. When the M4V contains H.264 video, MP4 can hold it as it is, so fast mode copies the streams without re-encoding. Other codecs (including HEVC while "Play everywhere" is ticked) are re-encoded at "Balanced" quality, which looks the same as the original to most people.
How long does it take?
Seconds when fast mode applies, even for a full film. If the video must be re-encoded, expect a few minutes for a long HD video.
What is an M4V file?
M4V is Apple's variant of MP4 used by iTunes and the Apple TV app. Files you make yourself are identical to MP4 inside; purchased iTunes movies carry FairPlay copy protection, which no converter is allowed to remove.
What is an MP4 file?
MP4 is a container that usually holds H.264 or H.265 video with AAC sound. It is built on Apple's QuickTime file structure and became an ISO standard in 2001. Because almost every phone, browser, TV and editing app can play it, MP4 is the safest choice when you need a video to just work.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the M4V to MP4 converter cost?
Nothing. It is free with no registration, no watermark and no limit on how many files you convert.
Are my files safe?
Yes. Files are converted locally in your browser and are never uploaded. When you close the page, nothing is left behind.
Will the MP4 sound and look as good as the M4V?
Often none. When the M4V contains H.264 video, MP4 can hold it as it is, so fast mode copies the streams without re-encoding.
Can I convert MP4 back to M4V?
Yes, use the M4V Converter and choose M4V as the output.
An M4V you made will not open in an app. What should I do?
Convert M4V to MP4. It is a fast copy.
Can I use it on my phone?
Yes. Open the page in your phone's browser and choose a file. Phones have less memory than computers, so very large files are better converted on a laptop or desktop.