Step 1. Install the MOV to MP4 converter
Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install Movavi Video Converter on your computer.
Convert MOV to MP4 Online for Free
Use this MOV to MP4 converter to change the format
This tool lets you convert MOV to MP4 online for free. To convert large files, try Movavi’s desktop converter.
Key takeaways
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
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
Best overall: Movavi Video Converter
Fast, high-quality, and full of practical tools for everyday use.
Best for simple editing features: VideoProc Converter AI
Many options for making quick and simple edits.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
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.
Depending on the number and size of the files you want to convert, you can try one of three approaches:
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.
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.
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