How to use the WTV converter
- Choose a file. Drop your WTV 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 a WTV file?
WTV is the file Windows Media Center created when recording TV. Media Center was removed from Windows 10, so WTV recordings now need converting to play in other apps. Recordings flagged as copy-protected by the broadcaster cannot be converted.
WTV is mainly used for old Windows Media Center TV recordings. It plays on Windows Media Center (Windows 7/8) and some versions of VLC.
WTV at a glance
| Full name | Windows Recorded TV Show |
|---|---|
| Type | Video |
| Created by | Microsoft, 2009 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | MPEG-2 or H.264 + AC3 or MP2 |
| Can be created here | No, WTV can be opened and converted to other formats |
Pros and cons of WTV
Good
- Kept TV guide metadata with the recording
Not so good
- Windows 10 and 11 cannot play it natively
Common WTV problems and fixes
A WTV recording will not open on Windows 11
Convert WTV to MP4.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open a WTV file?
WTV files play on Windows Media Center (Windows 7/8) and some versions of VLC. If yours will not open, convert it to MP4 on this page; that format plays on any device.
Can I convert to WTV?
No. WTV files can be opened here but not created, because only Windows Media Center created WTV recordings. You can convert WTV files to any other format.
Do I have to pay or sign up to use the WTV 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 WTV lossy?
Yes, WTV normally uses lossy compression, which removes detail you are unlikely to notice to keep files small.