How to use the WMV to MP4 converter
- Choose your WMV 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 WMV to MP4?
WMV is a Windows-only legacy format. MP4 opens on Mac, iPhone, Android and every website, and is much smaller at the same quality.
- WMV: not supported on Apple devices, Android or browsers.
- MP4: plays almost everywhere.
- MP4: good quality at small sizes with H.264.
WMV video always needs re-encoding; expect a few minutes for a long clip.
WMV vs MP4
| WMV | MP4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Windows Media Video | MPEG-4 Part 14 |
| Type | Video | Video |
| Created by | Microsoft (1999) | Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) (2001) |
| Compression | Lossy | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | WMV (VC-1) + WMA | H.264 + AAC |
| Best for | Older Windows Movie Maker projects and legacy corporate videos | Sharing videos online, phone recordings, social media uploads and streaming |
| Plays on | Windows Media Player and Movies & TV on Windows, and VLC; Macs, iPhones and browsers do not play WMV natively | Windows, macOS, iPhone, Android, smart TVs, game consoles and every modern browser |
Does converting WMV to MP4 lose quality?
WMV (WMV (VC-1)) has to be re-encoded to MP4 (H.264). At "Balanced" quality the difference is very hard to see; choose "High" for footage you will edit again.
How long does it take?
Re-encoding video uses your device's processor. A short clip takes seconds; a 10-minute 1080p video can take several minutes. Choosing 720p makes it 2–3 times faster.
What is a WMV file?
WMV is Microsoft's Windows Media video format, stored in the ASF container. It was common for Windows Movie Maker exports and early web video in the 2000s.
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
Is the WMV to MP4 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.
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 WMV?
WMV (WMV (VC-1)) has to be re-encoded to MP4 (H.264). At "Balanced" quality the difference is very hard to see; choose "High" for footage you will edit again.
Can I convert MP4 back to WMV?
Yes, use the MP4 to WMV converter.
A WMV will not open on a Mac or iPhone. What should I do?
Convert WMV to MP4.
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.