Need to convert videos to different formats? Whether you want to convert MP4 to AVI, MKV to MP4, or any video format to another, you need a reliable video converter.
In this comprehensive guide, we've tested and compared the top 10 video converters in 2026 to help you choose the perfect tool for converting videos to 200+ formats.
Quick Comparison Table
1. Total Video Converter (Editor's Choice)
Best for: Professional users who need reliable, high-quality video conversion with advanced features.
Key Features:
- ✅ Convert to 200+ video & audio formats
- ✅ 10X faster than competitors (GPU acceleration)
- ✅ Batch convert multiple videos simultaneously
- ✅ Also works as video downloader (1000+ sites)
- ✅ Available for both Windows and Mac
- ✅ Instant access after purchase – start converting immediately!
- ✅ Edit videos before conversion (trim, crop, effects)
- ✅ Merge multiple videos into one file
Pros:
- ✅ Fastest conversion speed on the market
- ✅ Supports 200+ formats (most comprehensive)
- ✅ Excellent customer support
- ✅ Lifetime free updates
- ✅ 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- ❌ Paid software (but worth every penny)
Supported Formats:
- Input: MP4, AVI, MKV, MOV, WMV, FLV, WebM, TS, MTS, M2TS, and 200+ more
- Output: MP4 (H.264/H.265), AVI, MKV, MOV, WMV, FLV, WebM, MP3, AAC, M4A, and 200+ more
Verdict: The best all-in-one video converter. Fast, reliable, and feature-packed. Highly recommended!
2. HandBrake (Best Free Option)
Best for: Users who want a free, open-source video converter for common formats.
Pros:
- ✅ 100% Free and open-source
- ✅ No ads or malware
- ✅ Supports all major formats
- ✅ Advanced settings for power users
- ✅ Presets for populardevices (iPhone, Android, etc.)
Cons:
- ❌ Interface is not very intuitive for beginners
- ❌ Limited format support compared to Total Video Converter
- ❌ Slower conversion speed
- ❌ No batch processing in some versions
Verdict: Good free option if you only need to convert to common formats. Not as feature-rich as paid alternatives.
3. FFmpeg (Advanced Users Only)
Best for: Advanced users and developers who need maximum control and automation.
Pros:
- ✅ 100% Free and open-source
- ✅ Supports EVERY format imaginable
- ✅ Extremely powerful and flexible
- ✅ Can be automated with scripts
Cons:
- ❌ No graphical interface – command-line only
- ❌ Steep learning curve
- ❌ Not suitable for beginners
Basic Command:
ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v libx264 -c:a aac output.mp4Verdict: Best for advanced users and developers. Not beginner-friendly.
4. VLC Media Player (Free & Familiar)
Best for: Users who already have VLC installed and want a free solution.
Pros:
- ✅ 100% Free and open-source
- ✅ No ads or malware
- ✅ Works on Windows, Mac, and Linux
- ✅ Also plays videos (media player)
Cons:
- ❌ Interface is not intuitive for conversion
- ❌ Slower conversion speed
- ❌ No batch processing
- ❌ Limited format options
Verdict: Good if you already have VLC, but not the best dedicated converter.
5. Any Video Converter (Freemium)
Best for: Casual users who want a simple interface and don't mind limitations.
Pros:
- ✅ Free version available
- ✅ Simple, user-friendly interface
- ✅ Supports 100+ formats
Cons:
- ❌ Free version has limitations
- ❌ Ads in free version
- ❌ Slower than premium competitors
- ❌ Limited advanced features
Verdict: Decent for casual use, but the free version is quite limited.
6. Online Video Converters (Free but Limited)
If you only need to convert a video occasionally, online tools might work:
Popular Online Video Converters:
- CloudConvert – Professional-grade, supports many formats
- Online-Convert.com – Feature-rich, advanced settings
- Convertio – Simple interface, decent speed
- Zamzar – Long-standing, reliable service
Pros:
- ✅ Completely free to use
- ✅ No installation required
- ✅ Works in any browser
Cons:
- ❌ File size limits (usually 100MB-1GB)
- ❌ Slow upload/download speeds
- ❌ Privacy concerns – you're uploading files to their servers
- ❌ Ads and popups
- ❌ Requires internet connection
- ❌ Limited batch processing
Verdict: Okay for converting a single small file occasionally, but not recommended for regular use.
7. Adapter (Command-Line Tool)
Best for: Developers who want a simple command-line converter.
Pros:
- ✅ Free and open-source
- ✅ Simple command-line interface
- ✅ Fast conversion speed
Cons:
- ❌ Command-line only
- ❌ Limited features
- ❌ Not suitable for beginners
Verdict: Good for developers who want simplicity, but not for casual users.
8. Movavi Video Converter
Best for: Users who want a balance of features and ease of use.
Pros:
- ✅ User-friendly interface
- ✅ Supports many formats
- ✅ Basic video editing features
Cons:
- ❌ Paid software
- ❌ More expensive than Total Video Converter
- ❌ Slower conversion speed
Verdict: Good software but overpriced for what it offers.
9. Prism Video Converter
Best for: Users who want a simple, no-frills video converter.
Pros:
- ✅ Simple interface
- ✅ Supports common formats
- ✅ Batch conversion
Cons:
- ❌ Paid software
- ❌ Limited format support
- ❌ No advanced features
Verdict: Decent for basic conversion needs, but not the best value.
10. Freemake Video Converter
Best for: Casual users who don't mind the free version limitations.
Pros:
- ✅ Free version available
- ✅ Simple interface
- ✅ Supports many formats
Cons:
- ❌ Free version has limitations
- ❌ Watermark on free version output
- ❌ Ads in free version
- ❌ Slower conversion speed
Verdict: Okay for casual use if you don't mind the watermark, but frustrating for regular use.
How to Choose the Right Video Converter in 2026
1. Consider Your Needs
- Occasional Use: Free online tools or HandBrake might suffice
- Regular Use: Invest in premium software like Total Video Converter
- Professional Use: Need batch processing, 200+ formats, and high speed
2. Check Supported Formats
Make sure the converter supports the formats you need. Total Video Converter supports 200+ formats – the most comprehensive option.
3. Evaluate Conversion Speed
If you convert large videos regularly, speed matters. Total Video Converter is 10X faster than competitors thanks to GPU acceleration.
4. Check Output Quality
Some converters degrade video quality during conversion. Look for converters that support lossless conversion or high-quality codecs (H.264, H.265).
5. Read Reviews and Ratings
Check independent reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Capterra, and G2. Avoid converters with many negative reviews.
Step-by-Step: How to Convert Videos in 2026
Using Total Video Converter (Recommended):
Step 1: Install Total Video Converter on your computer.
Step 2: Launch the program and click "Add Files".
Step 3: Select the video file(s) you want to convert.
Step 4: Choose your desired output format (e.g, MP4, AVI, MKV).
Step 5: Adjust settings if needed (resolution, bitrate, etc.).
Step 6: Click "Convert" and wait for the process to complete.
Step 7: Your converted video is ready! Find it in the output folder.
Video Formats Guide: Which One Should You Use?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best video format for YouTube?
MP4 (H.264) is the best format for YouTube – excellent quality and universal compatibility.
Can I convert 4K videos?
Yes! Total Video Converter supports 4K video conversion. Make sure your output format supports 4K (MP4 H.264/H.265, MKV).
Will converting videos reduce quality?
It depends on the settings. If you convert to a lower quality codec or reduce bitrate, quality will decrease. Use lossless conversion or high-quality settings to preserve quality.
Can I convert videos on Mac?
Yes! Total Video Converter works on both Windows and Mac. HandBrake and VLC are also cross-platform.
What's the best free video converter?
HandBrake is the best free video converter for common formats. For more formats, Total Video Converter is worth the investment.
Conclusion: Which Video Converter Should You Use?
After extensive testing, here are our recommendations:
- Best Overall: Total Video Converter – Fast, reliable, 200+ formats, and GPU acceleration
- Best Free Option: HandBrake – Free, open-source, but limited formats
- Best for Advanced Users: FFmpeg – Powerful but requires command-line knowledge
- Best for Quick One-Off Conversions: Online converters – Convenient but limited
Our Final Recommendation: If you regularly convert videos, invest in Total Video Converter. It's fast, supports 200+ formats, and gives you instant access after purchase. For occasional use, HandBrake is a decent free alternative.
Ready to start converting videos? Get Total Video Converter today and enjoy lightning-fast conversions to 200+ formats!