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While MP4 video files are generally compatible with numerous video players, they may encounter playback issues on systems that have recently undergone a Windows update. This is often due to the absence of the required codec or decoder for playing downloaded or transferred MP4 files. To ensure smooth playback, it is advisable to convert these videos into the Windows Media Video (WMV) format. It is a compressed video format developed by Microsoft for Windows systems. It offers high-definition video while maintaining relatively small file sizes.
Different Methods to Convert MP4 to WMV Video File Formats
We have curated a selection of standard video conversion solutions for your convenience. You can choose any as per your requirements to convert MP4 to WMV file.
Method 1. Convert MP4 into WMV Using VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player boasts an integrated Convert feature that facilitates free conversion of MP4 to WMV file format directly through its user-friendly interface. Here is the step-by-step process for converting video files using VLC Media Player:
- Launch the VLC Media Player on the system. Click on the “Media” tab and then select the “Convert/Save” option.

- Click “Add” to browse, select, and add the desired MP4 files for conversion.

- Select the MP4 files and click “Open” to add the video files.

- The MP4 video files are needed. Click “Convert/Save” to continue.

- Select the WMV file format from the drop-down list against the Profile section.

- Click “Start” to start the added video files conversion process.

- The multiple MP4 video file conversion process will start.
- Wait for the process to complete.
- Find the converted video files into the same source folder.
Read Also: Free methods to convert MP4 to other formats
Method 2. Perform Instant & Automated Conversion
Discover the exclusive, reliable, and highly efficient video conversion tool, Kernel Video Converter, recognized as a top choice in the market. This powerful software excels at converting video files from one format to another, all while preserving the original video properties, quality, and resolutions. With this tool, you can effortlessly convert MP4 to WMV video, and the best part is, it can handle even large files without size restrictions.
- Open the tool and click the plus icon to add the MP4 video file from the drive location.

- Once the files are added, click “Next” to continue.

- Search for the WMV file format and click on “Convert Now.”

- Provide saving location and click “OK”.

- The file conversion will start, and users can view the progress, which completes soon.

- Once the conversion of MP4 files to WMV is completed, the Success status is visible. Click on the highlighted link to visit the destination folder directly. Click the “Save to CSV” option to save the video files conversion report to CSV file format.

Method 3. Convert MP4 to WMV for Free Using Online Converters
There are numerous online free video conversion tools available in the market such as CloudConvert, FreeConvert, VEED.IO, or Zamzar, and you have the flexibility to choose one that suits your needs to convert MP4 to WMV video format. However, it’s important to be aware of some limitations associated with online tools. These tools may lack advanced features and often have restrictions on the maximum file size you can convert. Additionally, a stable internet connection is crucial for uninterrupted online video file conversion.
Let’s convert MP4 to WMV video using Zamzar:
- Go to this link, https://www.zamzar.com/ to open the online video conversion tool.
- Click on the “Add Files” option to add the desired number of MP4 files for conversion.

- Select the files from the system folder location and click “Open” to add them.

- Next, select the output video file format as “WMV” from the drop-down list.

- Once the output format is selected, click “Convert Now” to start the conversion.

- The conversion will start with the view of the live progress of files uploading.

- The files will get converted soon and ready to download.
Method 4. Convert MP4 to WMV Using FFmpeg Command
FFmpeg command line is suitable for advanced users with basic technical expertise. There are several different commands, which you can use depending on your needs. Make sure you have downloaded FFmpeg on your system to easily convert MP4 to WMV file. Now, execute the below commands carefully:
Basic conversion
High quality conversion: Fixed bitrate
High quality conversion: Constant quality
Ending Note: How to Convert MP4 to WMV
We’ve outlined several methods to convert MP4 to WMV, starting with manual solutions that can be attempted first. If these manual methods do not yield the desired results or prove to be challenging, choosing a highly efficient and professional video conversion tool is recommended. With this tool, you can easily change video file format whenever the need arises, ensuring a seamless conversion process.
This tool not only preserves your files but also saves you valuable time and effort, especially when converting a large number of video files simultaneously. Plus, it eliminates any size restrictions, allowing you to convert even large files with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. No, Windows Media Player is not equipped with necessary features to convert MP4 to WMV files.
A. There are many reasons to convert MP4 to WMV videos, such as:
1. WMV is native to Windows and offers smooth playback experience on Windows Media Player.
2. WMV files offer better compression than MP4 videos.
3. Users can easily edit WMV files on older Windows-based platforms.
4. Some legacy video editing tools work better with the .wmv container.
