Step 1. Install the Movavi video encoder
Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
11 Best Ways to Convert TS to MP4 [Windows/
Mac/Online]
To convert TS to MP4, do the following:
Download and launch Movavi Video Converter.
Add files to the program.
Choose MP4 as the output format and convert your files.
By clicking the download button, you're downloading a trial version of the program.*
Key takeaways
Ever tried to stream a video only to find it’s locked in a mysterious .ts format? I have – and it’s annoying. The good news is you don’t need to be a coder or even especially patient to turn those stubborn files into friendly MP4s. Over the past few weeks, I personally tested 11 of the most talked-about TS-to-MP4 converters, checking how fast they work, how clear their settings are, and how well they handle tricky video clips. Some stood out for their speed, others for an interface so straightforward you can start converting right away.
Below you’ll find my field-tested lineup of top apps, each chosen for a specific strength, from ease of use to reliable performance. With the right pick, you’ll have smooth-playing MP4s in minutes – no tech heroics required.
My top picks
This one makes short work of TS-to-MP4 conversions and keeps things smooth with built-in editing tools and speedy performance.
A completely open-source app that shines when you need batch conversions or custom presets and prefer not to spend a dime.
For users fluent in terminal commands, it unlocks near-instant conversions and total control over every detail.
You can launch it from any browser and still tweak quality and file size like a pro, no installation required.
More than a converter, it doubles as an editor, video downloader, and slideshow creator for multi-purpose projects.
List of the best TS to MP4 converters
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 products mentioned in this article have been tested by Movavi Content Team.
When testing, we aim to highlight the best features of a product and what it’s best suited for.
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.
Best free TS converters – desktop and online tools
Why I picked it: Quick, stable, and full of handy editing options – it’s the rare converter that feels pro but stays beginner-friendly
Best for: Beginners and pro-level users for TS-to-MP4 conversions
OS: Windows, macOS
For me Movavi Video Converter is one of the best applications for the TS-to-MP4 conversion on Windows and Mac. It also supports TS to GIF conversions and a wide range of other formats. With its power and rich set of features, I was able to convert files in batches and edit them in one program: adjust audio bitrate, trim or cut videos, and add effects and subtitles.
How to transcode TS to MP4 with Movavi Video Converter
Pros:
Supports all popular video and audio formats
Includes a built-in editor
Why I picked it: It’s a straightforward Windows choice that makes it easy to prep videos for social platforms without extra steps
Best for: converting files for social media
OS: Windows
AVS Video Converter is a Windows program (not freeware for Mac or Linux) that lets you to convert video, music, and images on Mac, Windows, and Linux. I’ve put it to the test as a second option and was pleasantly surprised that you can convert a large number of files simultaneously and split your videos by chapters or size. The program supports many different formats, including MP4, DVD, WMV, MOV, MPEG4, VOB, MKV, and AVI. AVS Video Converter can also convert videos for popular social media sites like YouTube and Facebook.
How to convert TS to MP4 with AVS Video Converter
Pros:
Great for social media conversions
Lots of presets
Plenty of features like subtitles and batch conversions
Cons:
Interface may be overwhelming for beginners
Some useful features (editing, DVD/Blu-ray conversion) require paid version
3. VLC
Why I picked it: A true media multitasker, it’s great for playback and just as capable at simple TS-to-MP4 conversions
Best for: playing and converting media files across platforms
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, Unix, iOS, Android
I was aware that with VLC Media Player anyone can easily convert TS to MP4 format, but it really does more than that. This popular, free program supports a wide range of different files. VLC has a simple user interface with many easy-to-use features and functions. Also I found it especially useful for routine tasks thanks to the variety of handy keyboard shortcuts.
How to convert TS video to MP4 with VLC
Pros:
Extensive range of tools, features, and functions; users can adjust some settings to match personal preferences, doesn't require third-party codecs, built-in equalizer.
Cons:
No way to customize the VLC interface.
Quick summary
Fast and simple conversion tool: Movavi Video Converter
Conversion app with presets for social media platforms: AVS Video Converter
Media player with conversion and recording features: VLC
4. FFmpeg
Why I picked it: It’s a pure command-line muscle for anyone who wants ultimate control and lightning-fast results
Best for: command-line enthusiasts who want to convert TS videos to MP4 and other formats
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
You can convert TS to MP4 with FFmpeg as it does a great job, but if you ask my opinion it's not for everyone. It's primarily a command-line tool, although there are interfaces available. But why bother? Well, in its raw form, FFmpeg is fast, powerful, and limited only by the user's level of expertise.
How to use the FFmpeg for the TS-to-MP4 conversion
Pros:
Powerful all-in-one command-line tool; third-part GUIs available, works with an extensive list of old and new file formats, captures screen activity with optional audio.
Cons:
It has a steep learning curve, especially with longer, more advanced commands.
5. HandBrake
Why I picked it: Totally free and endlessly flexible, it’s perfect when you’re batch-converting or fine-tuning settings
Best for: batch processing and users who need to convert a wide range of file formats
OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
You can also convert TS to MP4 with HandBrake. It's a free, open-source video converter (transcoder). Not only me but really everyone can use HandBrake at no cost as a personal TS converter for a Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems.
How to convert TS file to MP4 with HandBrake
Pros:
Lightweight TS-to-MP4 converter software program
Extracts and converts various physical formats, e.g., Blu-ray disks and DVD
Why I picked it: Minimal and no-cost, it’s ideal for quick mobile-friendly conversions when you don’t need advanced features
Best for: free video conversion to sizes optimized for most phones and mobile devices
OS: MacOS X 10.4 or higher, Windows, Linux
Next on my list was Miro Video Converter. It is an open-source TS converter for Mac, Windows, and Linux. While almost any TS-to-MP4 converter can handle mobile videos, Miro remains popular among freeware fans because it provides a simple, no-cost way to convert TS files to MP4. But after I've done some thorough testing, I think users looking for a robust video converter may be disappointed, though, as the software is intentionally minimal and lacks many advanced options found in other converters.
How to convert TS to MP4 with Miro Video Converter
Pros:
Completely free, it also supports a lot of popular file formats, both for desktop and mobile videos, and it’s HTML5 compliant. The ability to choose output formats based on the device is convenient, as well.
Cons:
It doesn’t include any editing capabilities, and you can’t control the resolution of your output files. If you need control over video quality, bitrate, codec, and other details, this is probably not the best converter for you.
Why I picked it: It combines high-speed conversion with built-in editing, downloads, and slideshows for an all-in-one workflow
Best for: batch media conversion, customizable output, and both beginner and pro video editors
OS: Windows, macOS
WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe easily converted my video TS files and many other formats. I was even able to use the program to edit TS files and other videos, download videos from the internet, and create impressive photo slideshows.
How to convert TS files to MP4 with WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe
Pros:
Over 480 presets; 24+ video/audio codecs, option to download TS movies by URL, create photo presentations (slide shows), easy-to-use editing tools.
Cons:
Cannot customize the interface, no text narration.
Why I picked it: It puts converting, editing, and screen recording in one place, so you can handle every step without juggling apps
Best for: users who need a convenient all-in-one video file converter
OS: Windows, macOS
I was eager to try out MacX Video Converter Pro for the reason that it's a so-called all-in-one HD video converter, editor, and screen recorder. And I was not disappointed, it's a breeze to use and gives you total control over your TS-to-MP4 video conversions.
How to convert TS files with MacX Video Converter Pro
Pros:
User-friendly interface; feature-rich, free download trial, works with games, songs, movies, etc., knowledgeable support team.
Cons:
The free trial version has a 5-minute restriction, no updates/upgrades for the trial version.
9. CloudConvert
Why I picked it: It works entirely in your browser and connects to popular cloud drives, perfect for on-the-go file management
Best for: users who need to save files to/from the cloud while on the go
OS: any, works online
CloudConvert converted my TS or MPEG-2 TS files and other formats directly in my browser. Its simple, easy-to-use interface lets you upload, transform, and control your video quality and file size.
How to convert TS to MP4 online with CloudConvert
Pros:
Easy accessibility via the cloud; change TS files to MP4 online, simple-to-use GUI, batch conversion, control video quality, resolution, and size, only pay for what you use (Pro version).
Cons:
Free users are limited to 25 conversions per day.
10. Convertio
Why I picked it: It offers detailed control over codecs and quality while staying easy to launch from any device
Best for: converting TS to MP4 online with custom settings
OS: any, works online
Popular Convertio can be considered one of the best free TS to MP4 converters online. It offers both free and paid plans and is a browser-based video file converter. And I liked the fact that I have control over aspect ratio, video quality, codecs, and many other settings.
How to convert TS to MP4 with Convertio
Pros:
Drag and drop simplicity; customize resolution, quality, and other settings, fast TS file conversion, three member plans available if you need more options.
Cons:
Internet dependency; no free trial for paid options, slow to convert larger files.
11. Zamzar
Why I picked it: It’s a clean, click-and-go converter that’s great for quick jobs when you need a no-install option
Best for: users on the go who need instant access to an online TS file converter
OS: any, works online
But there are more worthy options out there, for example Zamzar. It is another free file converter with optional paid Basic, Pro, and Business plans. It supports the most popular file formats. Converting TS files to MP4 with this tool is easy, though sometimes a bit slow.
How to convert TS files with Zamzar
Pros:
Free options, convenient online file conversions, super easy to use, video downloader, personal inbox for registered users, 150+ conversion formats.
Cons:
Long wait time for Zamzar free; small file size restriction for free users; free users must download the converted bile within 24 hours or lose it.
TS vs. MP4 comparison
TS vs. MP4: what’s the difference? These two formats are both used for storing video files as well as for streaming. Which format you choose depends on how you want to use the video. TS is more suitable for professional streaming, while MP4 is a great option for storing and watching videos on computers and mobile devices. Check the table below to learn more about the MP4 vs. TS differences.
How to convert TS to MP4 with the Movavi converter
Run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
Step 2. Add the TS files for conversion
Go to Add Media > Add Video and find the TS files you want to transcode.
Step 3. Edit your TS files (optional)
If you want to edit your TS files, open the Edit drop-down list at the top of the program window. You can trim, adjust or crop your video, add a watermark and subtitles and also apply effects.
Step 4. Choose your output format
In the Video tab, find the MP4 group of presets and choose the appropriate preset. You can also use the Movavi encoder to convert TS files to other video formats like AVI, MKV, MPG, and WMV or a DVD‑compatible format. In addition, you can extract audio from video and save it in MP3, FLAC, OGG, and more.
Step 5. Start converting the TS files to MP4
Click Save to to change the destination folder; if you don’t do this, the resulting files will be saved in the default Movavi Library folder. Hit Convert. That’s all it takes to convert TS to MP4!
How to choose the best TS to MP4 converter
Converting .ts files to MP4 is straightforward once you match the tool to the way you work. After testing all 11 programs, I can say the choice really depends on how you like to handle video tasks.
If you need an all-around desktop solution, like myself, Movavi Video Converter stands out. It runs quickly and includes practical editing features that simplify everyday conversions. For those looking for a free open-source option, HandBrake provides dependable performance with enough flexibility for most projects. Users who prefer command-line control will appreciate FFmpeg, which handles large jobs with remarkable efficiency.
If you’d rather work entirely in a browser, CloudConvert or Convertio let you upload files from your device or cloud storage and start converting right away. And when the priority is no-install simplicity, Zamzar delivers quick, clean conversions with minimal setup.
Before settling on a tool that answers the question “how to convert TS video/file”, look at three key points: make sure the converter is compatible with your system and budget, and that it supports the output formats important for your videos. A short trial run with one or two programs is often enough to see which converter fits best and keeps every MP4 ready to play.
Movavi Video Converter
Frequently asked questions
A TS file (Transport Stream) is a TS videos stream file used to store video on a regular DVD with the .ts file extension. Thus, the .ts file is used primarily to save broadcast or streamed video.
Learning how to play TS files is not difficult. And you don't need a dedicated .ts player to listen to or view TS files, either. Several media players, like VLC, work well as a TS video player. However, you may need to download a codec pack before you can play your TS files.
You can quickly and easily convert your TS files to MP4 in Windows 10 using the programs in this guide. That includes Movavi Video Converter, VLC, FFmpeg, and others.
Yes, VLC can open a TS file. All you do is drag and drop the .ts file for VLC to play it in the open program window. Alternatively, open the TS file via the File => Open menu.
The best TS-to-MP4 converter app depends on your needs and wants. Developers continually update their apps, so read the most recent user comments before deciding. Check out apps like All File Converter.
Renaming a TS file to MP4 does not change the file format. Instead, it renders the file unusable.
It's not a case of MP4 vs. TS; it's more a question of what is a TS file and how does it compare to an MP4? The main difference between TS and MP4 files is that an MP4 is a container that holds audio and video data. In comparison, a TS file is a format used to stream video and broadcasts.
Yes, your Windows Media Player should be able to play TS files. However, you may need to download and install the required codec package for your player and version.
TS vs. MP4 video quality: what's the difference? Well, TS quality is akin to the video and audio quality of any MP4 file. Your MP4 files need less space for the same amount of content, but you're unlikely to see any difference in the overall quality.
Here’re some online video file converters you can use:
Keep in mind that online converters can mostly process small files and usually have limitations on the number of conversions per day. Most online converters also don’t support batch conversion.
See other useful how-to guides
How to convert MP4 video files to DVD
How to convert DAT files to MP4
How to change format from MKV to AVI
How to convert DVD to AVI
8 Best ways to convert AVI to MKV [Free included]
How to change video resolution on Windows & Mac
Online music converter – Free tool for Windows & Mac
Convert AVI to MPEG online for free
How to Easily Convert Videos to an iPhone Format
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