Convert MOV to MP4 Online for Free

Use this MOV to MP4 converter to change the format

Convert to
Edited by
Joey Edits
32,325

Key takeaways

  • I tested both desktop and online MOV to MP4 converters to see which ones were genuinely convenient and kept the video’s quality intact.
  • Tools like Movavi Video Converter and VideoProc Converter AI give the best balance between speed and control.
  • FreeConvert and CloudConvert are great online options as quick utilities.
  • Most converters now handle 4K MOV files easily, but free plans can limit file size or output speed.
  • If you just need something quick, web tools like Movavi Online Video Converter or Zamzar save time without installation.

9 best MOV to MP4 converters – free and online tools

I’ve had my fair share of headaches trying to share videos from an iPhone or Mac on other platforms, only to find out they were in the MOV format. It’s a great format for Apple devices but not always friendly with TVs or certain editing apps. Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of converters to find the fastest and safest way to convert MOV files to MP4 with no quality loss.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the best MOV to MP4 converters for 2025. I tested both free desktop apps and online tools to see which ones actually deliver on speed as well as quality.

My top picks

Best overall: Movavi Video Converter

I like it because it’s fast, clean, and converts MOV to MP4 in seconds with barely any quality loss.

Best online tool: CloudConvert

Works entirely in your browser and supports large files with excellent output quality.

Best for professionals: VideoProc Converter AI

A desktop video conversion program that offers batch processing and precise settings.

Best quick browser option: CloudConvert

Converts MOV to MP4 directly online, ideal when I just need a quick conversion without downloads.


Comparison table: How to convert MOV to MP4 using different tools

App

OS

Best for

Download

Windows, macOS

Conversion with video editing capabilities

Windows

Converting videos using presets

3. VLC

Windows, macOS, Linux

Playing and ripping media

disclaimer_person

Here’s what Movavi’s team does to provide you with verified information:

  • When selecting products to include in our reviews, we research both demand and popularity.

  • All the products covered in this article have been tested by our team.

  • When testing, we compare key characteristics, including supported input and output formats, quality loss when converting, and other significant features.

  • We study user reviews from popular review platforms and make use of this information when writing our product reviews.

  • We collect feedback from our users and analyze their opinions of Movavi software as well as products from other companies.

Video conversion is a crucial aspect for every video editor and content creator. As a video editor myself, I frequently deal with this task, and after trying various online tools and free converters, I've found that many don’t deliver the quality I need. That’s when I switched to Movavi Video Converter, and it’s been a game changer.

List of the best tools to convert MOV to MP4 for free and online

You can use an online converter or a free MOV-to-MP4 converter to convert MOV files to MP4. There are a lot of options available. We’ve reviewed a few free desktop apps to help you choose the one that suits you best.

Finishing a project and then realising you’ve ran into a filetype roadblock can be a nightmare! Luckily, here’s the best MOV-to-MP4 converters.

1. Movavi Video Converter

Why I picked it: I’ve used Movavi Video Converter for years, and it’s still the most consistent desktop converter I’ve tested.

Best for: rapid, high-quality video conversion

OS: Windows, macOS

I have long been a fan of Movavi Video Converter and of having an offline method of conversion. This software enables you to convert video files in just a few clicks. The program allows batch conversion, so you can convert multiple files at once. Movavi Video Converter supports more than 180 formats.

I use this software to compress MOV to MP4 files that are smaller and easier to store as well. You can change the width and height of your video and frame rate. There’s also an option to choose the audio codec and bitrate type.

RATINGS

4.8/5

Pros:

  • I like the option to convert a batch of files in one go

  • Over 180 file formats supported

  • Able to compress large files

Cons:

  • Requires an app download

  • Trial version has limited export length

Converting MOV to MP4 is beneficial because MP4 files are widely compatible with most devices and media players, making them easier to share and stream. MP4 also typically offers better compression without significant loss in quality, resulting in smaller file sizes. This can save storage space and improve playback performance on various platforms.

How to convert large MOVs to MP4 on Windows and Mac with Movavi Video Converter

I find Movavi to be one of the simplest ways of converting MOV files to MP4 without loss of quality – Movavi Video Converter. The program uses SuperSpeed technology, which allows it to convert even large files in a matter of minutes. Apart from converting, the app also lets you edit your files the way you want. I tend to make some adjustments to the parameters.

Step 1. Install the MOV to MP4 converter

Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install Movavi Video Converter on your computer.

Step 2. Open files for conversion

Click the Add Media button in the upper-left corner and select the Add Video option. Now locate the MOV files that you want to turn to MP4 and add them to the app by clicking Open.

Step 3. Specify the output format

Open the list of supported video formats by clicking the Video tab. Locate the collection of MP4 presets and select the desired one.

Step 4. Edit your videos (optional)

If you want to make changes in your videos before conversion, click the Edit button in the right portion of the file information section. You’ll see a new window with a number of tabs.

Select the Stabilization tab and try different available options to reduce shaking in your video. Choose the Audio tab to manage the volume levels of the video or even reduce background noise. In the Adjustments tab, you can set desired values of brightness, contrast, saturation, and other parameters. You can also add effects, subtitles, or watermarks by opening the appropriate tabs and specifying elements you want to add. Use the tabs Crop, Rotate, and Trim to cut video edges, rotate the footage, or trim away unwanted fragments.

Step 5. Compress MOV files (optional)

If you have large MOV files that you want to export to MP4, you can also compress them on the way using Movavi Video Converter.

Just click on the file size value shown in the output information. In the dialog box that opens, set the desired size, quality, and bitrate by moving the appropriate slider. Click Convert sample to see how a file fragment will look after conversion.

Step 6. Convert MOV to MP4

Click Convert to start the operation. The app supports batch conversion so you can transcode multiple files simultaneously. When the conversion is complete, the folder containing the output files will open automatically.

If you're converting multiple MOV files, look for software like Movavi Video Converter or VideoProc Converter AI that offer batch conversion. This feature can save you a lot of time by processing several files at once, rather than having to convert them one by one. Just be sure to monitor the output settings to maintain consistent quality across all files.

2. AVS Video Converter

Why I picked it: I like AVS for its presets – they make file conversion easy even when I don’t want to think about formats or bitrates.

Best for: converting for different platforms and mobile devices

OS: Windows

When I tested it, I could simply pick a preset for YouTube or for device type, and it automatically optimized the output. It also lets me edit and there’s an option to burn to disc (I didn’t test this particular element). The latest 2025 update improved its 4K support and added faster H.265 encoding.

AVS Video Converter is a free-to-download video converter for Windows. I found that the hardware acceleration feature did provide a fast conversion process. Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP, AVS Video Converter is a versatile option for Windows users but not a good one for Mac users.

Here’s how to turn MOV into MP4 with AVS Video Converter:

Step 1. Install the program

Download and install the software from the AVS4YOU website. Go through the installation wizard and launch the app.

Step 2. Load your files into the converter

Click on Browse and select the files you want to convert.

Step 3. Customize the conversion parameters

In the Formats tab, you can select the appropriate file formats for conversion. The Devices tab will show you the presets for different mobile phones, tablets, and consoles. The Web tab will open a list of video hosting platforms.

Step 4. Select the output folder

Click the Browse button next to Output File Name to specify the output folder.

Step 5. Convert your files

Click Convert Now! to start the conversion process.

RATINGS

Pros:

  • Over 150 file formats supported

  • Conversion presets for most popular social platforms save you time

Cons:

  • Only available on Windows

3. VLC

Why I picked it: VLC is my go-to simple backup tool for conversions, mainly because I already have it installed and use it for other things!

Best for: converting files in the background while you do other things on your computer
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

When I get a new computer or device, VLC is one of the first things I install. It is a media player, but it has a lot of functions including file conversion. It can convert videos to some of the most popular formats, MP4 among them. I find that the processing speed is not very high, so conversion might take quite a lot of time. It’s being worked on though, the 2025 version introduced smoother hardware acceleration and better codec support for MOV files.

The program’s interface might seem a bit confusing to inexperienced users, so here’s a simple guide to help you use VLC to convert MOV to MP4.

Step 1. Install VLC on your computer

Go to the VLC website by clicking the link below and download the installation file. Go through the installation process and launch the app.

Go to the VLC website

Step 2. Upload your MOV video

Go to the upper-left corner of the program’s interface and click Media, then pick Convert / Save. Hit Add to upload the MOV files you want to convert and then click Convert / Save.

Step 3. Choose the output format

Open the drop-down list of formats in the Profile section and select Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4). If you want to use other video and audio codecs in the output file, click the Wrench icon next to the list of formats. Open the Video codec tab and select the appropriate option from the list in the Codec section. I always like to have full control of the bitrate and frame rate of your video. You will find the settings for audio in the Audio codec tab. Hit Save when you’ve set the necessary parameters.

Step 4. Convert the file

Click Browse and indicate the folder where you want to save the file. Then hit the Start button to convert MOV to MP4 with VLC.

RATINGS

4.7/5

Pros:

  • Completely free

  • Can leave conversions running in the background while you do other tasks

Cons:

  • Conversions take longer than most other programs

  • New users often find the user interface confusing

While converting from MOV to MP4, it's important to check the audio settings as well. Sometimes, during the conversion process, the audio quality can degrade if not properly configured. Make sure the output format supports high-quality audio codecs like AAC to maintain the best possible sound quality alongside your video.

4. VideoProc Converter AI

Why I picked it: this feels like a full video studio rather than a simple converter.

Best for: top-tier media conversion with AI video upscaling support
OS: Windows, macOS

I consider this as more than just a MOV to MP4 converter, VideoProc Converter AI encompasses 370+ codecs enables you to convert MOV to many formats on both Windows and macOS without jeopardizing the quality. I tested the Full GPU acceleration and a unique algorithm, it accelerates conversion while optimizing file size and preserving original quality. The user-friendly interface makes it easy for anyone to use.

I also like some of the AI features like AI upscaling and stabilization. They’ve not just been included as a gimmick – they do work. MOV to MP4 converter allows you to effortlessly enhance your MOV video. Whether you need to make your files more compatible or revive old videos, VideoProc Converter AI is the perfect solution for all your MOV to MP4 conversion needs.

Here is how to convert MOV to MP4 using VideoProc Converter AI.

Step 1. Download and run VideoProc Converter AI 

To get started, download the VideoProc Converter AI installation file from the official website and launch it on your computer. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software, then open the app.

Step 2. Tap Video Converter and import your MOV files

Click on the Video Converter panel to enter the conversion interface. You can then drag and drop your MOV files into the program or click on the +Video button in the upper left corner to select the files you want to convert.

Step 3. Select MP4 H.264 as the target format in the Video tab

Navigate to the Video tab at the bottom of the interface and select MP4 H.264 as the target format.

Step 4. Customize file properties using the Option gear icon (optional)

If you want to further customize your file, click on the gear icon named Option to adjust settings such as video quality, resolution, bitrate, and more.

Step 5. Choose a save folder and hit Run to convert MOV to MP4

Finally, choose a folder to save the converted MP4 file and click on the Run button to start the conversion process.

RATINGS

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface that's easy to navigate, even for beginners

  • High-quality conversion without watermarks

  • Batch conversion support

  • Customizable conversions with advanced settings for codec, resolution, bitrate, and more

  • All-in-one video solution with AI capability: AI upscale, frame interpolation, stabilize, convert, compress, edit, etc

Cons:

  • The free version has a 5-minute video limit

Quick summary: Best software to convert MOV to MP4

  1. Fast, high-quality, and full of practical tools for everyday use.

  2. Best for simple editing features: VideoProc Converter AI

    Many options for making quick and simple edits.

  3. Best online tool: CloudConvert

    Great for browser-based conversions when you’re in a hurry.

5. Freemake Video Converter

Why I picked it: I’ve used Freemake for over a decade, and it’s still one of the easiest ways to convert 4K MOV videos.

Best for: converting files to be compatible with specific devices
OS: Windows

Freemake Video Converter lets you convert video and audio files between more than 500 formats.

I like the fact that it has some great features for a free bit of software and the program has some editing functions as well – it enables you to cut, merge, and rotate video clips. You can also use the converter to add subtitles to your video.

I like that it lets me merge clips and burn them to DVD right from the same interface. The latest update improved 4K rendering speeds and added more export profiles for social media. The conversion speed in the free version is not particularly high, so converting large files might take quite a while. I was also frustrated by the output videos having a watermark on them – but that doesn’t always matter.

Here’s how to change MOV to MP4 with Freemake Video Converter.

Step 1. Install and launch the app

To install the Freemake MOV-to-MP4 converter, download the installation file from the page linked below and launch it. Follow the instructions that will appear on the screen and then open the app.

The Freemake Video Converter website

Step 2. Upload your video to the program

Hit the +Video button and choose the MOV file you want to convert, then click Open.

Step 3. Edit your file (optional)

I like to use the editing features which means hitting the Scissors icon to open the editing window. Use the editing tools to cut and rotate your video. Click OK when you’ve made the necessary changes.

Step 4. Set the export parameters

Now select the output format – click to MP4 in the lower part of the program window. To adjust additional settings, click the Cogwheel icon. Here you can select the video and audio codecs that will be used in the converted video as well as the resolution and bitrate of your video. When everything’s ready, click OK.

Step 5. Convert your file to MP4

In the Save to field, indicate the folder where you want to export the output video. Hit the Convert button and then pick Continue with logo to convert your file for free.

RATINGS

Pros:

  • Over 500 file formats supported

  • Ability to automatically select the best format by choosing which device you want to play the converted file on

Cons:

  • Free version takes a long time to convert files

  • Watermark placed on files converted with the free version

A good rule is to convert just a small video sample with different parameters and compare the results. This allows you to get a feel for the quality and determine which combination of parameters works best for your particular case.

6. CloudConvert

Why I picked it: when I don’t want to install software, I use CloudConvert.

Best for: converting videos from cloud storage

OS: Web-based

This online MOV-to-MP4 converter supports more than 200 formats, MOV and MP4 among them. I tested doing both methods of conversion. I uploaded a file for conversion from my computer. I also tested the fact that you can connect from Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive.

You can use CloudConvert to convert MOV to MP4 online even over 500 MB – the maximum size of uploaded files is 1 GB. Before you start the conversion, you can adjust various settings. For example, you can select the audio codec and change the audio volume. CloudConvert also lets you customize the resolution of the output video.

I don’t love the subscription and credit model they use for payment. It doesn’t suit me as I convert a lot of field gut I see how it can work for some people.

Here’s how to convert MOV to MP4 with CloudConvert.

Step 1. Open the converter’s website

Click the link below to go to the CloudConvert website.

Go to CloudConvert

Step 2. Add your file

Hit the Select File button, pick your MOV video for conversion, and click Open.

Step 3. Set the export parameters

Click the Wrench icon and adjust the settings of the output video. Hit Okay.

Step 4. Transfer MOV to MP4

Hit the Convert button, wait until the conversion is done, and click Download to save the file on your computer.

RATINGS

4.7/5

Pros:

  • Convert videos straight from your cloud storage

  • Free to use

Cons:

  • Credit system used to pay for conversions

7. Zamzar

Why I picked it: I still use Zamzar for quick file conversions when I don’t need any advanced settings.

Best for: converting video files without changing any of the parameters

OS: Web-based

Zamzar is another tool that can help you convert MOV to MP4 for free online. The service supports the most popular video formats, and can also convert other types of media: audio, images, and documents. As for video conversion, Zamzar lets you convert small files for free.

I tested the basic plan that provides up to 200MB files. It was basic and did the job.The conversion speed was also significantly higher than in the free version.

To convert MOV to MP4 online with Zamzar, follow these simple steps.

Step 1. Open the converter

Open the converter by clicking the link below.

Go to the converter's website

Step 2. Upload your MOV video

Click the Add Files button and select the MOV video you want to convert. Alternatively, you can drag and drop your file into the converter’s page or click select link and insert the URL of your video.

Step 3. Start the conversion and save the file

Hit Convert Now. Once your file is converted, click Download.

RATINGS

4.6/5

Pros:

  • Can convert multiple types of media

  • Most common video formats supported

Cons:

  • Have to pay to convert large files

  • Free version converts files significantly slower than the paid version

Having a backup of your original MOV file is a must. That way, you always have an unedited copy, which can be useful if you make a mistake during the conversion process. Or if you want to revert to the original version for any reason.

8. Movavi Online Video Converter

Why I picked it: I like that Movavi offers a free browser-based version of its desktop converter.

Best for: converting MOV files while adjusting video and audio quality

OS: Web-based

Sometimes I don’t want to go to the hassle of downloading software to change a file type. With Online Video Converter, you can convert .mov files to all popular video and audio formats. Apart from changing the format, you can also change the video resolution and audio bitrate of your file.

I even tested the option to specify the timecodes for the start and the end of this fragment, and the converter trimmed the video accordingly. Remember that the file size for the free conversion is limited. It’s perfect for quick MOV to MP4 conversions when I’m away from my main computer. The online tool supports over 40 formats.

Follow the steps below to convert QuickTime (.MOV) to MP4 with Online Video Converter.

Step 1. Visit the website

Click the link below to open the Online Video Converter page.

Go to the Online Video Converter page

Step 2. Upload your MOV file

Click Add Your Media to find and select the MOV file you want to convert. If you want to upload a video from Dropbox or Google Drive, click the arrow next to Add Your Media and select the suitable option. I sometimes drag and drop the media in to save time.

Step 3. Adjust the export parameters (optional)

Click the Cogwheel icon. Choose the desired value from the Video resolution drop-down list. To change the audio bitrate, open the list of bitrates under Audio quality and select the option you need.

Step 4. Do the online MOV-to-MP4 conversion

Hit the Convert button. After the file has been uploaded and converted, you’ll be able to download the new file to your computer.

Pros:

  • Edit the resolution of videos before the conversion

  • Convert files from a cloud storage

  • Fast conversion speeds

Cons:

  • Paid subscription required to convert larger files

9. FreeConvert

Why I picked it: FreeConvert is one of the most straightforward converters I’ve tested.

Best for: editing videos while converting them to MP4s

OS: Web-based

I am a big fan of simplicity. “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication” is a quote I truly believe in, and FreeConvert is a useful tool that can help you convert MOV to MP4 online with ease. It allows larger files than some competitors and I even used it to make some basic edits.

I tested the larger files as well as FreeConvert lets you rotate and flip your video as well. There’s even an option to add subtitles to your video file. I did find that the free version has some limitations, for example, the file size is limited to 1 GB, and there are ads on the converter’s webpage.

FreeConvert improved its 4K support and added new presets for mobile devices. It’s great when I just need something fast and accurate.

This is how to change the format of your video from MOV to MP4 with FreeConvert.

Step 1. Open FreeConvert’s website

Click the link below to open FreeConvert.

Go to FreeConvert

Step 2. Add your MOV file

Click Choose Files, select the video you want to convert to MP4, and click Open. I tested adding files your file from my device, Dropbox, Google Drive, and even from URL. Click the arrow on the right of the Choose Files button and select the option you need.

Step 3. Adjust the settings (optional)

Click the Cogwheel icon and adjust the video and audio settings as needed. Then click Apply Settings.

Step 4. Convert the file

Hit Convert To MP4. Once the conversion is done, click Download MP4.

Pros:

  • Adjust various video settings before converting

  • Now supports 4K files

  • Remove audio from videos

Cons:

  • Unable to convert files larger than 1 GB (without payment)

  • Ad supported

Online video converters are much easier and convenient to use. They save you from any software installations and updates. However, desktop programs are more secure, have more features, and tend to produce higher quality output files.

How to choose an MOV to MP4 converter

I’ve found that online conversion is a convenient way to change the format of videos. I don't want to install any software on your computer that I don’t know if I’m going to continue to use. Almost all online conversion tools support MOV and MP4. There are some limits on some of the online options but there are also some excellent options.

  1. Movavi Video Converter – full video conversion package.
  2. AVS Video Converter – converting using presets.
  3. VLC – playing and ripping media.
  4. VideoProc Converter AI – top-tier media conversion with AI video upscaling support.
  5. Freemake Video Converter – best for converting 4K videos.
  6. CloudConvert – best for users who want to create GIFs online.
  7. Zamzar – best for small file sizes.
  8. Movavi Online Video Converter – fast online video conversion.
  9. FreeConvert – easy-to-use interface.
CloudConvert
4.7/5
Bestseller
Freemake Video Converter
3.8/5

MOV vs. MP4 – comparing formats

Which format to choose: MOV or MP4? The most significant difference between QuickTime’s MOV format and MP4 is that the first was developed by Apple and is mostly used by Apple devices, from phones and tablets to computers, and MP4 was developed by the International Organization for Standardization. It is more universally accepted and utilized.

Comparison parameter

QuickTime

MP4

Category

Video format

Video format

Developed by

Apple Inc.

International Organization for Standardization

File extension

.mov, .qt

.mp4

Video-encoding formats

MPEG-2 (OS X Lion or later), MPEG-4 Part 2, H.264, H.263, H.261, Apple ProRes, Apple Pixlet, others

H.264, H.265, MPEG-2 Part 2, MPEG-4 ASP, H.263, VC-1, Dirac, others

Audio-encoding formats

AAC, Apple Lossless, MP3, others

AAC, MP3, AC-3, Apple Lossless, ALS, SLS, others

OS support

macOS and iOS (iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, etc.). Support for other systems is limited

Almost any OS, including Windows, Linux, Ubuntu, Android, iOS, etc.

Associated programs

QuickTime Player, iTunes, VLC, CyberLink PowerDirector, Windows Media Player (version 12)

Windows Media Player, VLC, QuickTime Player, iTunes

Frequently asked questions

▶️ How do I convert MOV (QuickTime) to MP4 (MPEG-4) for free online?

You can use any online video converter that suits you best. Follow the instructions below to learn how to change MOV to MP4 with FreeConvert.

  1. Click the link below to open FreeConvert.
    Go to FreeConvert
  2. Click Choose Files, select the video you want to convert to MP4, and click Open.
  3. Click the Cogwheel icon and adjust the video and audio settings as needed. Then click Apply Settings.
  4. Hit Convert To MP4. Once the conversion is done, click Download MP4.

▶️ How do I use VLC to convert MOV to MP4?

  1. Download and install VLC on your computer
    Go to the VLC website
  2. Step 2. Go to the upper-left corner of the program’s interface and click Media, then pick Convert / Save. Hit Add to upload the MOV files you want to convert and then click Convert / Save.
  3. In the Profile section select Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4). Use the Video codec tab to change the bitrate, codec, and frame rate of your video. You will find the settings for audio in the Audio codec tab. Hit Save when you’ve set the necessary parameters.
  4. Click Browse and indicate the folder where you want to save the file. Then hit the Start button.

▶️ How do I convert MOV to MP4 on a Mac?

Depending on the number and size of the files you want to convert, you can try one of three approaches:

▶️ How do I open a .mov file?

If you want to open an MOV file on an Apple device, you should not have any problems because MOV is an Apple creation. QuickTime and iTunes can both play back MOV files. As for Windows, you can use VLC or Windows Media Player – both have an option to open MOV files.

▶️ Can Windows Media Player play MOV files?

Yes, it can play MOV files, but you may need to install an appropriate codec. MOV is a container, and a video component in it may be encoded using different codecs; if you have the right one, the software will work.

Movavi Video Converter

The ideal way to get your media in the format you need!
Movavi Video Converter
Have questions?

Have questions?

If you can’t find the answer to your question, please feel free to contact our Support Team.

Join us for discounts, editing tips, and content ideas

1.5M+ users already subscribed to our newsletter

By signing up, I agree to receive marketing emails from Movavi and agree to Movavi's Privacy Policy.