Summary: ASF and MP4 differ in compatibility and quality. Convert ASF to MP4 using online tools, VLC Media Player for small videos, or professional tools like Kernel Video Converter for no size limits and better quality.
Advanced Systems Format (ASF) is a multimedia file format developed by Microsoft as an integral component of their Windows Media Framework. Specifically engineered for streaming audio and video content over the internet, ASF was formerly referred to as Advanced Streaming Format and Active Streaming Format.
Why need to change an ASF video?
ASF video files are indeed well-suited for streaming content. Nevertheless, they do have a few drawbacks.
Limited compatibility with media players
ASF is indeed proprietary software developed by Microsoft, which means it has limited support on other multimedia playback platforms. However, it is well-suited for playback on platforms like Windows Media Player and VLC Media Player.
Limited usage
Due to its limited compatibility with various multimedia playback platforms, ASF video files do have restricted utility, which contributes to their relatively lower popularity as a video format.
Low-quality video
ASF video files are typically highly compressed, which can result in lower video quality. Additionally, their resolution is often limited to 352×288 to accommodate streaming requirements. Because of these limitations, there is often a need to convert them into more widely used file formats that can maintain better video quality, such as MP4.
What is an MP4 file?
MP4 or MPEG-4 Part-14 is also a digital multimedia container format popularly used to store video, audio, subtitle, and still image files.
What sets the MP4 file apart?
Compatibility with multimedia playing platforms
One of the significant advantages of MP4 files is their broad compatibility with almost all multimedia players and various devices, including VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player, GOM Player, Apple’s QuickTime Player, and iTunes.
Wide usage
MP4 video files are the video format preferred by most users. Due to its versatility, it is widely used.
Helpful in streaming
MP4 files are also known for their efficient compression that doesn’t compromise the quality of the video, making them an excellent choice for streaming videos over the internet.
High video quality
MP4 format offers high-quality videos even while streaming. It has a maximum resolution limit of 2048×2048.
Due to these advantages, it is recommended to convert ASF into MP4 video files.
Methods to Convert an ASF File into a MP4 Video File
Using online video conversion tools
One of the easiest approaches is converting an ASF file into MP4 File using the video conversion tools available over the internet. Some of these online converters are-
Zamzar
Online Convert
Covertia
Convert File
These converters have a simple method – just add the required ASF video, and it will automatically convert ASF to MP4. They can also be used to convert a MP4 file to other format.
Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a continuous power supply when using online video conversion tools. However, these tools can sometimes raise concerns, which warrant careful consideration.
Lack of Safety- As you save the converted MP4 file on your system, it opens a door for various bugs and virus attacks.
Privacy in question- Some of these tools may request users to provide their contact details, which can result in receiving unwanted spam emails. It’s advisable to exercise caution and avoid using online converters when handling confidential video content to maintain privacy and security.
Limit in file size- There is often a limit to file size while converting videos which is not suitable when converting large-sized video files.
Quality loss- There is a huge possibility that the quality of the video gets degraded during the conversion process.
Limited time of storage- Usually, the online tools let the user store the converted video file for only a limited period.
Using VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is indeed a versatile open-source multimedia player with a range of features, including video conversion capabilities. Here are the steps to convert an ASF video file into an MP4 file using VLC Media Player:
Launch the VLC Media Player on your computer system.
From the Menu bar, click on “Media” and then go to “Convert/Save”.
Using the “Add” feature, choose the ASF video file and then click on “Convert/save.”
From the available options, choose “MP4”.
Select the destination to save the converted video file.
Click on “Start,” and it will start the conversion process.
Converting video files through VLC Media Player is suitable for small videos only as it can be done with much ease.
Video Conversion tool
When it comes to video conversion, professional tools like the Kernel Video Converter can be a reliable option. These tools often offer advanced features and a dedicated approach to maintaining video quality. They can handle various formats, including converting ASF to MP4 or MKV to MP4, while ensuring minimal quality loss during the process. However, it’s important to choose a reputable and trusted video converter tool to ensure the best results.
Open the tool and select all the videos you want to convert by clicking on the plus sign “+.”
Choose the videos from anywhere on your desktop and click on “Open.”
The selected video will be displayed and now click on “Next”.
Tick the checkbox “MP4” and click on “Convert Now.”
Choose a destination to save the converted MP4 video file.
The conversion process will start, and the status will be changed from “Processing”to “Success.” Select “Save report to CSV,” and everything will be saved on the selected location.
Why this tool is a premium tool
There is no file size limitation.
Simple interface and easy steps.
It is supported by all Windows operating system versions.
It has the ability to convert multiple videos at the same time.
Indeed, both ASF and MP4 are video container file formats, and while they have differences in terms of features and compatibility, it’s true that converting an ASF video into an MP4 file can often be done easily using various methods, including online free video conversion tools and VLC Media Player. These tools provide a convenient way to convert videos between different formats, making it accessible for users to adapt their content to their specific needs and preferences.
