How to use the MP4 to MOV converter
- Choose your MP4 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 MOV". A progress meter shows how far along it is.
- Download your MOV.
Why convert MP4 to MOV?
MOV is the native format for Final Cut Pro, iMovie and QuickTime workflows. Converting MP4 to MOV avoids import warnings in some Apple tools.
- MP4: usually lossy, so quality drops a little each time it is re-encoded.
- MOV: native on Apple devices.
- MOV: can hold high-quality editing codecs like ProRes.
H.264 MP4 video is copied into MOV without re-encoding, so the conversion is instant and lossless.
MP4 vs MOV
| MP4 | MOV | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | MPEG-4 Part 14 | QuickTime File Format |
| Type | Video | Video |
| Created by | Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) (2001) | Apple (1991) |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | H.264 + AAC | H.264 or HEVC + AAC |
| Best for | Sharing videos online, phone recordings, social media uploads and streaming | iPhone and Mac recordings, video editing and camera footage |
| Plays on | Windows, macOS, iPhone, Android, smart TVs, game consoles and every modern browser | macOS, iPhone, iPad and QuickTime Player; most Windows players need a codec pack for HEVC MOV files |
Does converting MP4 to MOV lose quality?
Often none. When the MP4 contains H.264 video, MOV 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 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.
What is a MOV file?
MOV is Apple's QuickTime container. iPhones and Macs save videos as MOV, usually with HEVC (H.265) or H.264 video. It can also hold editing codecs such as ProRes, which is why Final Cut Pro and many cameras use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the MP4 to MOV converter free?
Yes, completely free, with no sign-up and no watermark. Files up to 1 GB each can be converted, and there is no daily limit.
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.
Will the MOV sound and look as good as the MP4?
Often none. When the MP4 contains H.264 video, MOV can hold it as it is, so fast mode copies the streams without re-encoding.
Can I convert MOV back to MP4?
Yes, use the MOV to MP4 converter.
An MP4 plays without sound. What should I do?
The audio may use a codec your player does not support (for example AC3). Convert it to MP4 again so the sound becomes AAC.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes, in Safari, Chrome and other modern mobile browsers. Short files work best on phones; for long or high-resolution videos a computer is faster.