1. 1️⃣ Download and Install SoftOrbits Software.
  2. 2️⃣ Upload MKV Files to the Program.
  3. 3️⃣ Specify Compression Settings.
  4. 4️⃣ Push Convert.
 Download for Free
SoftOrbits Video Converter Screenshot.
️ Eugene - CEO at SoftOrbits, Candidate of Technical Sciences, has more than 16 years of expertise in software development, photo and multimedia applications, enhancing and transforming digital images and videos.
📅 Last updated on:  2024-01-20

MKV is a versatile video container file type, but its limited compatibility can hinder sharing. To address this, consider converting MKV files to the more widely supported MP4 format. Below will demonstrate how to use SoftOrbits Video Converter to achieve this conversion. Additionally, alternative methods, including free and paid software, online tools, and command-line tools, will be explored.

Way #1: SoftOrbits Video Converter

SoftOrbits Video Converter is a commercial software that supports a wide range of video and audio codecs for conversion. The software offers a straightforward interface.

Steps to Download Use SoftOrbits Software

Download and Install the program

Head over to the official SoftOrbits website, grab the Video software software by downloading it. Once the download wraps up, kick off the installer, and simply follow the on-screen instructions to smoothly install the software on your PC.

Download and Install..

Launch the program

Post-installation, with a double-click on its desktop icon or by searching for it in the Start menu.

Run program..

Add Your Files

Simply hit the Add Files button in the software interface. If you're feeling extra efficient, go ahead and select multiple files at once by holding down the Ctrl key. Easy-peasy!

Add files..

Choose MP4 as the Output Format

It's got options, but MP4 just hits the right notes for me.

Choose..

Customize Output Settings (Optional)

When I want to add my personal touch, I always click on the Settings button. There, I can play with video codec, resolution, and other cool parameters. But hey, if all these settings sound like tech jargon, I stick to the defaults – they never disappoint.

Output Settings..

Select Output Folder

Use the Save to combo box to select the destination folder.

Select Output Folder..

Start the Process

When I've got everything just right – settings, output folder and all – it's showtime with the Convert button.

Runned SoftOrbits windows and mac..

SoftOrbits Video Converter SoftOrbits Video Converter

SoftOrbits Video Converter offers a clean, uncluttered way to convert, compress, enhance and upscale videos in one go using all the power of your PC.

 Download for Free

Video Tutorials

Pros:

User-friendly interface with clear navigation.

Supports a wide range file types.

Optimized for relatively fast working speeds, especially with hardware acceleration enabled.

Produces high-quality output with minimal noticeable quality loss when using appropriate settings.

Cons:

Can consume significant system resources (CPU and RAM) during transformation, especially with large files or multiple simultaneous conversions.

The free trial version is limited, restricting certain features or adding a watermark. (Specify the exact limitations if possible).

Some user reviews report slow response times from customer support.

Alternate Ways

While using a dedicated software is the most common method, there are alternative ways to change videos. Here are a few options:

✔️ Online Tools

Online platforms like Zamzar, OnlineConvert, or CloudConvert allow you to upload your video and convert it to MP4 without the need for software installation.

✔️ Video Editing Software

like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, offer the ability to import your video and export them.

✔️ Media Players

Certain players, like VLC, have built-in capabilities that enable you to transform videos to MP4 within the player itself.

These alternate methods of converting, catering to different preferences and requirements. Whether you choose dedicated software or online tools or utilize existing software capabilities, you can easily transform your MKV videos.

Way #2: FFmpeg: Using Command Line

FFmpeg is a powerful command-line tool capable of converting MKV video files to MP4. Users proficient in command-line operations can utilize FFmpeg to achieve precise control over the working process, including customization of output settings.

Here is an example of the command line:

ffmpeg -i LostInTranslation.mkv -codec copy LostInTranslation.mp4
for i in *.mkv; do
ffmpeg -i '$ i' -codec copy '$ {i% . *} . mp4'
done

Way #3: Best MKV to MP4 Converter Downloads for PC

At SoftOrbits, our goal is to deliver accurate and trustworthy information.

  • We pick products for reviews based on what people like and what is popular.

  • Our testing phase focuses on spotlighting the prime features of a product and identifying its most suitable software.

  • User reviews from top sites guide us in crafting our product reviews.

  • We gather feedback from our users, understanding their thoughts on SoftOrbits software and other products.

Freemake Video Converter

Freemake Video Converter is a freemium Windows application offering basic video transcoding and editing. While its free tool provides a decent range of functionalities, it's important to be aware of its limitations. Freemake supports a variety of input and output file types, including H.264, MPEG-4, AVI, WMV, and more. It also allows for basic editing tasks, such as trimming, merging, and rotating videos.

A key feature is its CUDA and DXVA hardware acceleration support, which can significantly speed up transformation times on compatible NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. However, the free tool imposes certain restrictions, most notably a watermark on converted videos and limited download speeds for online video downloads. The software also bundles additional software during installation, which requires careful attention during setup.

Steps to Download and Use Freemake

Download and Install the program

Visit the official website of Freemake and click on the Download button.

Download and Install..

Launch the program

Once the installation is complete, launch and by double-clicking its desktop icon or finding it in your Start menu.

Launch program..

Add Video Files

Click on the +Video button or use the drag-and-drop feature to add your files to the interface.

Add multimedia..

Select Output Format

Click on the Convert menu item and then select MP4.

Select..

Choose Output Folder

Click on the ... button next to the Save to field to select the destination folder.

Choose Output Folder..

Adjust Settings (Optional)

If desired, you can customize the settings by clicking on the gear icon next to the output file type. You can modify parameters like video codec, resolution, bitrate.

Settings (Optional)..

Start the Transforming Process

Click the Convert button to start. Will now convert your files, and you can monitor the progress through the progress bar.

Start the Process..

Pros:

Easy to learn interface, good for basic conversions and quick edits.

Includes basic tools like trimming and merging, useful for simple adjustments.

Leverages GPU hardware acceleration (CUDA and DXVA) for faster working on compatible systems.

Cons:

Free version adds a watermark to output videos, limiting its use for professional projects.

Bundles potentially unwanted software during installation; users must pay close attention during setup.

Free edition limits download speeds for online videos, pushing users towards the paid version.

Lacks advanced controls found in tools like HandBrake, making it less suitable for fine-tuning output quality.

My overall rating: 3,5    G2 Review

Movavi Video Converter
Movavi..

Movavi Video Converter is a commercial converter that supports a wide range of file types (over 180), including MKV, MP4, AVI, MOV, and WMV, with modern codec support like H.265 (HEVC) and VP9. A key strength is its device-specific presets, which automatically optimize settings for various smartphones, tablets, and TVs, making it easy for beginners to get good results. It also includes basic editing tools and hardware acceleration for faster processing.

Beyond basic transcoding, Movavi offers tools (trimming, cropping, rotating, adding effects), audio extraction, and even basic video enhancement features like color correction and stabilization. It leverages hardware acceleration (Intel HD Graphics, NVIDIA CUDA, and NVENC) to boost transcoding speeds. However, the free trial version adds a watermark to output files and has a limited transformation duration.

Pros:

Wide format support (over 180 file types).

Preset device profiles.

Includes basic video editing and enhancement tools.

Hardware acceleration for faster transcoding.

Cons:

Free trial has limitations (watermark, limited transcoding time).

Can experience performance issues with extremely large files or complex conversions on lower-spec hardware.

More expensive than some other options.

My overall rating: 4.5    G2 Review

HandBrake
HandBrake..

HandBrake is a powerful, free, and open-source transcoder popular with advanced users. Its strength lies in its highly customizable settings, allowing for precise control over parameters like frame rates, and bitrates. While this flexibility is a major advantage, it also contributes to a steeper learning curve for beginners. HandBrake excels at batch processing and queuing multiple conversions, making it efficient for handling large numbers of files.

Pros:

Highly customizable settings for advanced users.

Excellent batch processing and queuing capabilities.

Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux).

Completely free and open-source.

Cons:

The complex interface can be overwhelming for beginners.

Lacks some user features found in commercial converters.

My overall rating: 4    Trustpilot

VLC
VLC..

VLC Media Player is a free and open-source cross-platform multimedia player that also includes basic video transcoding capabilities. While not its primary function, VLC can convert MKV to MP4 using its built-in transcoding feature. It supports a decent range of codecs, though its encoding options are less extensive than dedicated converters like HandBrake.

VLC's conversion process involves navigating through its menus and selecting the desired output profile. While functional, the interface is not as intuitive for conversion as dedicated tools. It's best suited for quick, simple conversions rather than complex tasks. VLC supports hardware acceleration for decoding, which can improve playback performance but its hardware encoding capabilities are limited compared to other tools.

Pros:

Completely free and open-source.

Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS).

Versatile media player with extensive format support.

Basic video functionality built-in.

Cons:

Transformation interface is less intuitive than dedicated converters.

Limited options and customization compared to tools like HandBrake.

Hardware support is limited.

Not ideal for batch mode or complex transformation tasks.

My overall rating: 4    Microsoft

Way #4: Using Free Online Tools

Any Video Converter
Any Video..

Any Video Converter offers both a desktop application and a free online converter. The online version focuses on basic video conversion functionality, including MKV to MP4. The interface is simple, making it easy to upload your file, select the output format, and begin the conversion.
The online version of Any Video Converter is best suited for small to medium-sized files and quick conversions. It lacks the advanced features of the desktop application, such as batch conversion, editing, and extensive encoding options. Like other online converters, conversion speed is dependent on internet connection and server load.

Key Features and Technical Details:

  • Input file types: Supports common video file types like MKV, AVI, MOV, and MP4.
  • Output file types: Converts to MP4, WebM, and a few other web-friendly file types.
  • Encoding Options: Offers basic quality presets (Low, Medium, High) but lacks fine-grained control over bitrate, codec settings, etc.
  • File Size Limits: Typically limited to under 100MB for free.
  • Integration with Desktop Version: Encourages users to upgrade to the desktop version for batch mode, editing features, and higher file size limits.

    • Pros:

    Simple and easy-to-use interface.

    No software installation required.

    Free for basic transformation.

    Easy upgrade path to the more powerful desktop version.

    Cons:

    Limited features compared to the desktop application.

    Working speed depends on internet connection and server load.

    File size limits may be restrictive for larger files.

    My overall rating: 4   

    Free Online Video Converter

    OnlineConvert.com is a free, web-based file conversion platform that supports a wide array of file types, including video, audio, images, documents, and more. For MKV to MP4 conversion, it offers a simple, three-step process: upload, select output format, and download.

    While OnlineConvert.com is convenient for quick conversions, it lacks advanced features. Users have limited control over encoding parameters like bitrate, resolution, and codec. The service relies on browser-based processing and server-side conversion, which can be slower than desktop software, especially for large files or during peak usage times. The free option has file size limits, which vary depending on the file type. While they don't explicitly state the limits for video, it is generally around 100MB.h5: Key Features and Technical Details:

  • Input file types: Supports a wide range of video file types beyond MKV.
  • Output file types: Offers various output options, including specific device profiles.
  • Encoding Options: Limited control bitrate, and resolution.
  • File Size Limits: Free edition has limitations; varies by file type.
  • Privacy: Uploading files to their server involves inherent privacy considerations.
  • Speed: Conversion speed depends on internet connection and server load.

    • Steps to Use OnlineConvert.com

    Visit the Website

    Open your web browser and go to the official website of Free Online Video Converter.

    Visit the Website..

    Upload the MKV Video

    Look for the Upload or Choose File button on the website's interface.

    Click on the button to browse and select the MKV video.

    Upload..

    Choose Output Format

    On the website, locate the section or dropdown menu where you can select the output format.

    Choose File..

    Start Process

    Find the website's Convert button.

    Start..

    Download the Converted your MP4 multimedia

    Once the transformation is complete, a download link or button will appear on the website.

    Click the link or button to download the converted your video to your computer.

    Download result..

    Locate the Downloaded your video MP4

    Go to the folder on your computer where downloaded files are usually saved.

    Find the downloaded MP4 and ensure it has been successfully saved.

    Locate the Downloaded File..

    Pros:

    No software installation required.

    Simple and easy-to-use interface.

    Supports a wide variety of file types beyond just video.

    Cons:

    Limited control over encoding parameters.

    Working speed depends on internet connection and server load.

    File size limits in the free version.

    Potential privacy concerns due to file uploads.

    My overall rating: 4   

    Convertio
    Convertio..

    Convertio is a more feature-rich online service that supports a vast range of file types, including video, audio, images, documents, ebooks, and archives. Convertio provides a straightforward process with some additional options.
    A key advantage of Convertio is its integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox, allowing users to directly import files from and export files to their cloud accounts. Convertio also offers some basic video editing functionality, such as trimming. While Convertio's free version has file size limits (100MB) and limits on concurrent conversions, paid plans remove these restrictions and offer faster working speeds and higher priority processing. They also use HTTPS encryption for file transfers, addressing some privacy concerns.h5: Key Features and Technical Details:

  • Input file types: Supports over 300 different file types.
  • Output file types: Offers a wide range of output options.
  • Encoding Options: Some control over quality, but not as granular as desktop software.
  • File Size Limits: 100MB in Free edition; higher limits with paid plans.
  • Cloud Integration: Integrates with Google Drive and Dropbox.
  • Security: Uses HTTPS encryption for file transfers.
  • API: Offers an API for developers to integrate Convertio's transformation capabilities into their own applications.

    • Pros:

    Supports a very wide range of file types.

    Integrates with cloud storage services.

    Offers some basic video editing features.

    Uses HTTPS encryption for file transfers.

    Cons:

    File size limits and limits in the free version.

    Transcoding speed can vary depending on server load.

    Paid plans are required for high-volume or large file.

    My overall rating: 4   

    A Comprehensive Comparison

    .

    The quality of the output file is paramount when converting MKV to MP4. Prioritize software that maintains high resolution and bitrate, preventing significant quality loss. Additionally, consider the software's ability to handle large files efficiently, as MKV files can be substantial.

    Paul

    Here's a comparison table of popular software and online tools. We've considered factors like processing speed, hardware acceleration, cloud integration, and pricing to help you choose the best tool for your needs.

    FeatureSoftOrbitsFreemakeMovaviHandBrakeVLCAny Video Converter (Online)Free Online Video Converter (OnlineConvert.com)Convertio (Online)
    Ease of UseVery EasyEasyEasyDifficult (Steep Learning Curve)ModerateEasyVery EasyEasy
    Price$29.99Free (with limitations)$39.95 (Trial with limitations)FreeFreeFree (Online), Paid (Desktop)FreeFree (with limitations), Paid plans
    Batch transcodingYesYesYesYesYesLimited (Online), Yes (Desktop)YesLimited (Free), Yes (Paid)
    Advanced EncodingLimited (Basic presets)Limited (Some control over bitrate)Moderate (Device presets, some codec/quality options)Extensive (Full control over codecs, bitrate, frame rate, etc.)Limited (Basic profiles)Basic (Quality presets)Very LimitedBasic (Quality presets, some format-specific options)
    Editing FeaturesBasic TrimmingTrimming, Merging, RotatingTrimming, Cropping, Rotating, Effects, Color Correction, StabilizationNone (Focus is on transcoding)Basic TrimmingNone (Online), Trimming, Merging, Effects (Desktop)NoneBasic Trimming
    Supported CodecsH.264, H.265 (HEVC), AVI, MKV, MP4, WMVH.264, MPEG-4, AVI, WMV, MP3, and many moreH.264, H.265 (HEVC), VP9, MKV, MP4, AVI, MOV, WMV, and 180+ moreH.264, H.265 (HEVC), MPEG-4, VP8, VP9H.264, MPEG-4, WMV, and many moreMP4, WebM, and a few othersWide range, including MP4, AVI, MOV, MKV300+ file types, including most common video, audio, image, document, ebook, archive file types
    OS CompatibilityWindowsWindowsWindows, macOSWindows, macOS, LinuxWindows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOSBrowser-based (Online), Windows (Desktop)Browser-basedBrowser-based
    Approx. Transcoding Speed (1GB file)~5-7 minutes (with HW acceleration)~6-8 minutes (with HW acceleration)~4-6 minutes (with HW acceleration)~8-10 minutes (Highly dependent on settings)~7-9 minutes (Limited HW encoding)Varies greatly depending on server load and file sizeVaries greatly depending on server load and file sizeVaries greatly depending on server load and file size, typically slower than desktop
    Cloud IntegrationNoNoNoNoNoNo (Online)YesYes (Google Drive, Dropbox)

    MKV and MP4 file types

    Matroska Video files, also known as MKV videos, are container files that support unlimited picture, audio, and subtitle tracks. They’re similar to MOV and AVI files, except they have a much larger amount of storage. They’re an all-in-one video format.

    Adobe

    MPEG-4 Part 14, or MP4, is a digital multimedia container most commonly used to store video and audio, but it can also be used to store other data such as subtitles and still images. Like most modern containers, it allows streaming over the Internet. The only filename extension for MPEG-4 Part 14 files as defined by the specification is .mp4. MPEG-4 Part 14 (formally ISO/IEC 14496-14:2003) is a standard specified as a part of MPEG-4.

    Wikipedia

    Understanding MKV and MP4

  • MKV (Matroska) and MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) are both container file types for multimedia data. The key difference lies in their design and intended use.
  • MKV: Designed for versatility, MKV can hold an unlimited number of video, audio, and subtitle tracks, making it ideal for storing movies with multiple language options, director's cuts, and bonus features. It supports a wider range of types, but this flexibility can sometimes lead to compatibility issues.
  • MP4: Focused on compatibility, MP4 is the most widely supported video format across devices and platforms. It's the standard for online streaming and video sharing.

    • SoftOrbits Video Converter SoftOrbits Video Converter
    Solve your video conversion needs effortlessly with SoftOrbits Video Converter. Download the software and convert MKV to MP4 format hassle-free. Enjoy seamless compatibility and high-quality output for your video files.
     Download for Free
    SoftOrbits Video Converter Screenshot.


    🙋Frequently Asked Questions

    Video quality depends on factors like bitrate, resolution, codec, and frame rate.

    Choose a good format (like MP4), select a suitable bitrate, use a reliable converter, avoid excessive editing, and consider hardware acceleration.

    Hardware acceleration uses the GPU to speed up video processing, reducing transcoding time.

    While not all converters directly integrate with cloud storage, many allow manual upload or use online converters that support cloud integration.