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WMV was originally created by Microsoft and is designed to work smoothly with the Windows operating system. However, it may not function as smoothly on other operating systems such as Linux, Mac, and so on. Thus, the most efficient way to work with these files is to convert WMV to MP4 format. Try using the methods we’ve given in this article to convert your MP4 files easily. We will also explore an alternative solution for WMV to MP4 conversion, serving as a viable option in cases where manual methods may not yield the desired results.
WMV and MP4 File Formats Comparison
| Feature | WMV | MP4 |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | Windows Media Video | MPEG-4 Video File Format |
| Developed by | Microsoft | Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) |
| Primary use case | Native video playback for Windows Media Player | Video streaming, storing, and sharing |
| Container format | Advanced systems format (ASF) | MPEG-4 Part 14 (based on QuickTime MOV format) |
| Compatibility | Windows systems | Universal (smartphones, PCs, smart TVs, gaming consoles) |
| Compression | Good compression | Best compression amongst video formats |
| Supported media types | Primarily videos | Videos, audio, images, subtitles, etc. |
| Best use case | Smooth video playback in Windows environment, streaming in low-bandwidth environment, sharing small videos, etc. | Online video streaming, sharing on social media, video editing, etc. |
Methods to Convert WMV to MP4
Generally, there are not many direct methods to convert WMV to MP4 video files. However, you can use VLC media or online free video file converter to change your WMV files to MP4.
Method 1. Use VLC media player
VLC Media Player is not just a normal utility that allows you to play your videos. It is even helpful for video related scenarios, like repairing corrupt video files and converting video file formats. I’ve personally used this VLC Media Player countless of times to stream and convert my video files. This is by far the easiest method to convert WMV to MP4 for free in my opinion. To convert your WMV file to MP4 free with VLC, follow the below steps:
- Download the latest versions of VLC and install it on your system.
- From the home screen of VLC, click Media option in the menu and select Convert/Save.
- In the opened wizard, click the Add button and upload the WMV file that you want to convert and then click Convert.
- Now, select the specific video output to Video H.264 + MP4, and Browse the location where you want to save the converted file and provide a file name, and then click Start.
VLC Media Player will start converting your WMV file to MP4. Once it is complete, you will be able to see the mp4 file at the saved location.
However, VLC Media Player doesn’t allow you to convert corrupt WMV files. To repair corrupt video files, you need to try some video repair tools.
Pros:
- It is an open-source ad-free media player that’s completely free and doesn’t even track user data.
- VLC Media Player supports all major video (MKV, MP4, AVI, etc.) and audio formats without having to download extra codecs.
- Compatible with all major platforms and devices like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, etc.
- Offers video and audio streaming, repair, and conversion services for free of cost.
Cons:
- May lag while trying to play or convert high-frame rate videos or 4K quality videos.
- Limited library features, making it confusing to manage large libraries of video files.
Method 2. Use a Free Online Video File Converter
A convenient method for converting WMV to MP4 is by utilizing a free online video conversion service. These websites enable you to perform file conversions swiftly without the need to install any software on your system. To convert your video file using an online converter, follow the steps outlined below:
- Visit the website of the online converter.
- Upload your WMV file to the site.
- After uploading the file, click the Convert button to begin the process.
- Once the file is converted to mp4, you can easily download it to your system.
Pros:
- Accessibility on all devices.
- No need to download any application.
- Ease of use.
Cons:
- Stable internet connection needed.
- File size limitations.
- Videos are downloaded with watermarks sometimes.
- Privacy and security concerns are high.
Method 3. Convert WMV to MP4 Without Losing Quality
The methods detailed above may not give consistent results if the file size is too large. Experts suggest using a professional Video Converter tool not only saves time, but also keeps the output video quality consistent.
A tool like Kernel Video Converter allows users to convert a wide range of media files into various file formats. It excels at converting videos of any size to your preferred format. Furthermore, its user-friendly interface simplifies the file conversion process. The operation of the video converter tool typically involves the following steps:
- Download and install the software in your system.
- Launch the tool, click the ‘+’ from the upper-right corner to add the files.
- Choose the desired WMV file from your local storage.
- Upload the WMV file that you want to convert, and then click Next.
- Select the mp4 format and click Convert Now.
- After clicking Convert, select the location where you want to save the file and click OK.
- The tool will start converting the file; once it is complete, you can close the application.
Note: If you’re unable to find the specific conversion format, you can also search for it.
That’s how you can easily convert the WMV file to MP4 format.
VLC Vs Kernel Video Converter: What to Choose?
| Features | VLC media player | Kernel Video Converter |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Mostly easy to use (advanced features can be confusing) | Beginner friendly interface |
| Conversion quality | Good but might lag with HD videos | Easy conversion of high-quality videos |
| Batch conversion | Limited | Supports bulk conversion |
| Cost | Free | Free trial available |
| Best use case | Conversion of videos up to 720p | Bulk conversion of all videos, even HD (1080p and 4K) |
Final Words
Converting WMV to MP4 becomes essential when you intend to access the file on different devices like PCs, smartphones, smart TVs, etc. We’ve explored both manual methods and a professional video conversion software for accomplishing this task. Even though VLC media player works well for basic conversion of few small-sized files, they might not give satisfactory results if the file is too large in size, or there are too many files to convert. Use Kernel Video Converter utility to convert WMV to MP4 file easily, with the original output quality. However, if your interest lies in repairing corrupt MP4 video files, you can explore our video repair utility.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. To preserve original video quality in output, use these settings:
1. Video codec: H.264
2. Audio codec: AAC
3. Resolution: Same as original
4. Bitrate: Match or slightly lower
A. No, if you use accurate settings during conversion and a good video converter like VLC or a professional tool, then video quality will remain unaffected.
