Alexis Kestler
Converting digital video files from one format to another can be a frustrating process – but it doesn‘t need to be with the right video converter software. This guide will cover 15 top-rated options for both Windows and Mac to help you quickly and easily encode all your video content.
Whether you need to compress large video files for easier sharing, convert home movies for viewing on mobile devices, edit and export video for online platforms, or handle many other common video conversion tasks, these programs have you covered.
I‘ll summarize the standout features of both paid and free tools to convert video fast while maintaining quality. You‘ll also find tailored recommendations based on use cases like:
- Family/home videos
- Mobile and device playback
- Video editing workflows
- Social media and online sharing
By the end, you‘ll have a clear sense of which video converter makes the most sense for your personal needs and experience level. Let‘s dive in!
1. Wondershare UniConverter – Best Overall Video Converter
Wondershare UniConverter earns the top spot for its unparalleled format support, speed, and versatility converting home movies and pro video projects alike.
Key Features:
- Converts 1000+ video and audio formats
- 30X faster conversion without quality loss
- Optimized device profiles for mobile, TVs, gaming
- Edit video with trimming, effects, subtitles, watermarks
- Screen recording, GIF creation, DVD ripping
- Intuitive interface ideal for beginners
This do-it-all converter handles everything from digitizing old home VHS tapes to exporting edited footage from video editing software. The extensive format compatibility, fast encoding, and editing tools round out a nearly perfect package.
While the premium software isn‘t cheap, it‘s frequently discounted – and worthwhile for power users handling client video projects. For more casual personal use, the free trial delivers plenty.
Ideal For:
- Pro video producers and home movie digitization
- Fast, high-quality video conversions
- Mobile and online video encoding
2. VideoProc Converter – Fastest GPU-Accelerated Encoding
If you work with high-resolution 4K, 8K, or even 360VR footage, VideoProc Converter is arguably the best fit for smooth, quality conversions and small file sizes.
Key perks:
- Leverages full GPU hardware encoding
- Converts video 40X faster than realtime
- Supports 360 VR, 8K, 4K, HD footage
- Extremely small output video files
- Intuitive interface for beginners
- Additional video editing features
VideoProc makes it easy to handle recalcitrant large or uncommon video formats thanks to full utilization of graphics card and CPU power. Results stay crisp and clear too – its smart adaptive encoding algorithms help minimize quality loss even at high compression ratios.
The app‘s streamlined design also enables novice users to get started with just a few clicks. But you‘ll still find device encoding profiles, batch processing, trimming tools and more to handle bulk conversions.
If you need versatile software to convert both conventional and cutting edge video fast on decent hardware, VideoProc Converter is a superb option.
Ideal For:
- Fast encoding of hi-res and 360/VR video
- Beginners converting video in bulk
- Maintaining quality at high compression
3. WinX Video Converter – High Quality Encoding
Don‘t let the name fool you – WinX Video Converter excels not just at changing file formats, but also encoding and compressing digital video without compromising visual quality.
Why choose WinX?
- 420+ supported input/output formats
- Cutting-edge HEVC/H.265 encoding
- GPU acceleration for added speed
- Compress video by 50% with no quality loss
- Upscale HD video to 4K resolution
- Intuitive, easy to use interface
While WinX Converter works its magic across Windows operating systems, Mac users have a comparable alternative called MacX Video Converter Pro.
The converter makes it simple to fine tune settings to maximize output video quality while minimizing file size. And the GPU acceleration cuts down encoding times considerably compared to CPU-only processes. For those needing excellent quality and efficient compression from an intuitive app, WinX Video Converter is a leading contender.
Ideal For:
- Maintaining video quality at high compression ratios
- Flexible custom encoding settings
- Windows users
4. Leawo Video Converter – All-in-One Media Toolkit
Leawo Video Converter provides an attractive option for Windows and Mac users looking to consolidate multiple tools into one.
Why choose Leawo?
- Modules for converting, editing, burning video
- Rip Blu-ray/DVD to digital files
- Convert video for Apple devices
- Add watermarks and effects
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Affordably priced
By combining Blu-ray backup features, video editing tools, and format conversion into one launcher app, Leawo makes it easy to carry out multiple media tasks smoothly. It‘s a great hub to digitize your old disc collections while also prepping videos for mobile devices and popular social platforms.
For under $30 at the time of writing, you get excellent value even using just a couple features regularly. While Leawo tries to appeal to all users, it hits a nice sweet spot for semi-prosumers managing lots of media across devices and online platforms.
Ideal For:
- Consolidated Blu-ray/video toolkit
- Streaming video edits and social media encoding
- Getting value from integrated media features
5. iDealshare VideoGo – For Converting Rare Formats
If you deal with unconventional, legacy or highly compressed video types, chances are some codecs and formats will be incompatible with popular converter apps. That‘s where the aptly-named VideoGo converter steps in.
Key perks include:
- Handles esoteric and variable bitrate formats
- 330+ supported input and output codecs
- Convert home VHS, camcorder, DVD media
- Extract and convert audio from video
- Quality retention with high compression
- Surprisingly affordable pricing
While catering to niche video formats, you still get conveniences like one-click mobile device encoding profiles. VideoGo also uses GPU acceleration for blistering fast conversions when needed. If you have piles of old home movies or come across exotic video sources regularly, few handle such variety so smoothly.
Ideal For:
- Importing and digitizing legacy home video
- Converting AVCHD, MOD, MXF, WMV, etc
- Maintaining quality for highly compressed video
6. FonePaw Video Converter Ultimate – Streamlined Interface
FonePaw built Video Converter Ultimate with usability firmly in mind – both simplified controls for beginners and deeper customization tools await.
Why choose FonePaw?
- Clean, intuitive user interface
- Quality retention with small file sizes
- Device encoding profiles for mobile
- Trim, crop, enhance converted video
- Screen recording built-in
- Affordably priced
The polished interface makes converting video approachable for anyone while retaining batch processing and fine tuning options power users depend on. And handy utilities to record your screen or improve video quality provide additional practical value.
For easy conversions optimized for mobile gadgets, online platforms, and more – FonePaw Video Converter deserves strong consideration.
Ideal For:
- Beginner-friendly video conversions
- Mobile playback and online sharing
- Adding video effects and touch ups
7. HitPaw Video Converter – For Downloading Online Video
While most video converters focus solely on local media files, HitPaw sets itself apart with integrated online video downloader tools.
Why choose HitPaw?
- Downloads video and audio from 1000+ sites
- Fast batch encoding powered by GPU
- Extract thumbnails from video timelines
- Add background music to video
- Simple and approachable interface
- Solid value when on sale
So if you regularly save clips from YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo and other sites, HitPaw eliminates the step of using a separate downloader app. Updates also add useful utilities like thumbnail generators, audio track mixing, subtitle support, and more.
For easy access to online media paired with quality conversions, HitPaw Video Converter is quite handy.
Ideal For:
- Streamlining online video acquisition
- Accelerated format encoding
- Personalizing downloaded video
8. AVS Video Converter – Optimized Profiles
Boasting support for virtually any device profile or platform format you need, AVS Video Converter makes targeted encoding a breeze.
Why choose AVS Converter?
- 200+ output video format presets
- Tailored profiles from mobile to Facebook
- Built-in media player and preview
- Retains quality at high compression
- Hardware-accelerated encoding
- Intuitive interface with some ads
Whether you need video properly sized and encoded for an iPhone or optimized for uploading to YouTube, preset profiles automate most of the technical guesswork. Convenient utilities like direct video playback and integrated previewing also help smooth out the process.
While some interface elements feel dated, superb format and device support at a very palatable price make AVS Video Converter a viable contender.
Ideal For:
- Encoding video for mobile, web, etc
- Previewing conversions before saving
- Very affordable cost
9. Movavi Video Converter – Super Fast Encoding
Dubbed "Lightning Fast" for good reason, Movavi Video Converter exploits modern multi-core processors to tear through format encoding quicker than anything.
Why pick Movavi?
- Blazing fast conversion speeds
- 180+ supported formats
- Quality retention at high compression
- Device-specific encoding profiles
- Simple interface with some upsells
By fully leveraging your CPU (and GPU when possible), Movavi can reliably convert one hour of video in just one minute. Despite pace, it still tweaks settings automatically to prevent quality loss where possible based on source footage.
While the interface isn‘t as refined as some premium tools, superb performance and quality make Movavi Video Converter well worth considering.
Ideal For:
- Fastest video format conversions
- Maintaining quality at high speeds
- Streamlined interface
10. Freemake Video Converter – Completely Free
If you want a capable no-cost video converter option for Windows, Freemake Video Converter is a long-time favorite.
Why try Freemake?
- 100% free with no watermarks
- Supports 500+ formats
- Optimized output presets
- GPU acceleration for added speed
- Integrated video editing tools
- Exports to mobile devices
Given slick design and solid performance for a free program, it should come as no surprise over 100 million people use Freemake converter. You still get convenient presets tailored to devices and platforms for easy sharing. And handy utilities integrated like video joiners, screenshot tools, and more increase practical utility.
Just be prepared for nags suggesting paid upgrades during the process – easy enough to decline if you want to stick with the free version. But for the price and quality, few competing paid apps can match Freemake Converter capabilities.
Ideal For:
- Completely free video conversions
- Optimized device and web encoding
- Expanding capabilities over time
11. Any Video Converter Pro – Best Format Variety
Boasting support for an astounding 200+ input and output video and audio formats, Any Video Converter Pro stands atop all competitors for sheer variety.
Why consider Any Video Converter?
- 200+ supported formats
- Built-in media downloader
- Batch encoding queue
- Retain quality at 90% compression
- Enhanced HEVC/H.265 encoding
- Solid price point
So exotic codecs like OGV, ASF, MKV, MOD and almost anything else pose no challenge for conversion using solid built-in profiles. And downloading clips from 100+ streaming sites integrates directly into your workflows.
While the interface shows its age a bit, excellent format support and continual updates keep this converter relevant. If you need to smoothly handle lesser known formats, Any Video Converter Pro is a top contender.
Ideal For:
- Converting esoteric legacy formats
- High quality HEVC encoding
- Getting the most format support
12. Prism Video Converter – Fine Tuned Control
While simple on the surface, Prism Video Converter reveals deeper customization settings converting power users crave.
Why choose Prism?
- Granular output settings control
- 200+ supported formats
- Batch convert video files
- Compress video over 80%
- Extensive device profiles
- Free version available
So whether you want full command adjusting video frame rates, resolutions, encoder settings and more – it‘s here. But you can still just pick a device format preset and let it work automatically if needed.
For those who need uncompromising quality encoded specifically for certain devices or scenarios, Prism Converter is a price friendly fit. And if curious, just grab the free version from NCH with no obligations.
Ideal For:
- Fine tuning high quality video encodes
- Maximum compression without loss
- Free trial option to test
13. HandBrake – Open Source Power
If you‘re technically inclined and want access to source code, HandBrake‘s open platform offers intriguing potential.
Why use HandBrake?
- Entirely 100% free + open source
- Actively developed by enthusiasts
- Extensive device and web presets
- Granular control over encodings
- Simple queue for batch jobs
- Support for hundreds of codecs
Volunteer coders continuously refine and expand HandBrake far beyond most commercial offerings. The preset profiles library now covers a staggering range of mobile, gaming devices, web platforms and more. Plus if you know your way around video specs, everything can be tweaked extensively.
For advanced video experts or developers toying with unconventional workflows, the open ecosystem HandBrake enables is tough to beat. But even casual users benefit from robust format support100% free.
Ideal For:
- Advanced video technicians/enthusiasts
- Fully customizable encodings
- Batch processing queues
- Open source community support
14. WonderFox HD Video Converter – Boosting Video Quality
While most converters focus solely on changing file formats, WonderFox HD Video Converter steps it up by actively improving video quality.
Key advantages include:
- Boost video quality to HD 1080p
- Over 500 supported formats
- Batch convert unlimited video
- Built-in screen recorder
- Extract and convert audio
- Surprisingly affordable
So dusty old VHS tapes or pixelated webcam footage can get modern upgrades breathing new life into personal media memories. Converting slides or photos into animated presentations with custom voiceover narration also expands creative options.
For the price, you get an awful lot of viable utility spanning conversion, improvement, recording and more – making WonderFox HD more than just a typical video encoder.
Ideal For:
- Upscaling video to HD resolutions
- Creating photo slideshows
- Expanding limited hardware
15. VideoStudio Ultimate – Video Editing Plus Conversion
Wrapping up the list, VideoStudio Ultimate bundles professional-grade video editing tools alongside its conversion capabilities.
Why pick VideoStudio Ultimate?
- Fast, flexible 64-bit encoding engine
- Multi-cam capture and recording
- Extensive titling, transitions, effects
- Tools to color correct, stabilize video
- Great asset library integrations
- Surround sound audio tools
So not only can VideoStudio rip and convert homemade DVDs into digital files, you can import the footage to extensively edit, finesse, overlay graphics and export to a wide array of formats. Support for 360 VR content, multicam shoots, onboard screen recording and more production capabilities make this far beyond just a converter utility.
It‘s certainly overkill if you just need to prep some videos for your phone. But videographers and semi-pro video producers should find the combination tool quite practical.
Ideal For:
- Video professionals/content creators
- Editing workflow integrations
- 360 VR and multi-cam video
Wrapping Up
Hopefully this overview gives you a better idea which video converter options best align with your experience level, platform, and intended use.
The good news is most even offer free trial versions to test out – so don‘t hesitate to download a couple favorites that caught your eye. Before long you‘ll confidently pick the right tool to handle all your video conversion needs smoothly!
