How to use the MJPEG converter
- Choose a file. Drop your MJPEG file.
- Check "Convert to". MP4 is selected; choose another format if you need it.
- Adjust quality if you want a smaller or higher-quality file.
- Click Convert and download the result.
What is an MJPEG file?
Motion JPEG stores every frame of a video as a separate JPEG image. Webcams, IP security cameras and older digital cameras use it because it is simple, though the files are large.
MJPEG is mainly used for webcams, IP cameras and older digital cameras. It plays on VLC, QuickTime and most editors.
MJPEG at a glance
| Full name | Motion JPEG |
|---|---|
| Type | Video |
| Created by | various camera makers, 1992 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | Motion JPEG + PCM |
| Can be created here | No, MJPEG can be opened and converted to other formats |
Pros and cons of MJPEG
Good
- Every frame is a full image, so it is easy to edit and seek
Not so good
- Files are many times larger than H.264
Common MJPEG problems and fixes
An MJPEG camera clip is far too big
Convert it to MP4 for a much smaller file.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an MJPEG file?
MJPEG files play on VLC, QuickTime and most editors. If yours will not open, convert it to MP4 on this page; that format plays on any device.
Can I convert to MJPEG?
No. MJPEG files can be opened here but not created, because its encoder does not run reliably inside a web browser. You can convert MJPEG files to any other format.
Do I have to pay or sign up to use the MJPEG converter?
No. There is no account, no payment and no watermark. The only limit is 1 GB per file, set by what browsers can handle.
Is my file uploaded to a server?
No. The converter runs inside your browser using WebAssembly, so your file is processed on your own device and never sent to us or anyone else.
Is MJPEG lossy?
Yes, MJPEG normally uses lossy compression, which removes detail you are unlikely to notice to keep files small.