10 Best 4k to 1080p Converters [Win/Mac/Online & Open Source]
- Last updated on 2024-12-06
Table Of Content
Introduction to 4K and 1080P
1080P, also known as Full HD or FHD, boasts 1920 pixels horizontally and 1080 pixels vertically, with the "P" indicating progressive scan. Meanwhile, 4K, or Ultra HD/UHD, dazzles with approximately 4000 pixels horizontally (3840 × 2160). While 1080P is the consumer display and broadcast standard, 4K shines in professional production and cinema. However, the transition to 4K isn't always seamless. Today's discussion revolves around the conversion process from 4K to 1080P.
A Guide to Selecting the Best 4K to 1080P Converter
When selecting a tool to downscale 4K videos to 1080P, consider the following key factors:
1. Output Quality:
Preserving image quality is critical when converting 4K to 1080P. The converters listed below excel in preserving picture clarity, ensuring minimal loss of detail and robust conversion performance.
2. Conversion Speed:
Efficiency matters, especially for larger 4K files. Tools like UniFab Video Converter stand out with their impressive 50x GPU-accelerated speed, delivering quick results without compromising on quality.
3. Price and Value:
Affordability is a key factor when choosing a 4K to 1080P converter. Consider both cost and features. Free tools may suffice for basic tasks, but paid converters typically offer more advanced options and better performance for long-term use.
By focusing on these factors, you'll find a 4K to 1080p converter that balances quality, speed, and affordability to meet your needs.
Comparison of Three Best 4K to 1080P Converters
We've highlighted the most critical features of our top three tools, which have earned them their ranking in today's discussion. Let's delve into them.
| Particulars | UniFab Video Converter | VLC Media Player | VideoProc |
| Format support | 1000+ video formats | Multiple | 370+ input formats & 420+ output formats |
| Lossless video compression | Supported | Not supported | Supported |
| Video editing | Supported | Not supported | Supported |
Convert 4K to 1080p on Windows & Mac
1. UniFab Video Converter
UniFab Video Converter ensures seamless video format compatibility with over 1000 supported formats. It excels in compressing videos for social media platforms without compromising quality, making sharing HD videos on YouTube, Facebook, or Twitter effortless. Renowned as a top 4K to 1080p converter, UniFab delivers lossless conversion, customizable features, and lightning-fast performance with GPU acceleration, achieving speeds 50 times faster for conversion, compression, and editing.
Compatibility: Windows & macOS
Key Features of UniFab Video Converter
- Convert videos to 1000+ formats
- Compress videos without quality loss
- 50x GPU-accelerated processing speed
- Batch processing for multiple videos
- Built-in editing and customizable settings
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using UniFab Video Converter
30-day Free Trial with full feature access!
Import Your 4K Video
Open UniFab, click "Video Converter" from the main interface, and import your 4k video.
Select Format
Select the output format you wish to convert to.
Customize Video Settings
Under the Resolution tab, adjust the video resolution to 1920 x 1080. Further, users can customize other settings such as frame rate, codec, and bit rate according to their preferences.
Start Conversion
Once configuring the settings, click the Start button to convert from 4K to 1080p.
2. Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe stands out as the industry's premier video converter and editor, catering to social, TV, and film content. It can seamlessly downscale UHD 4K footage to 1080P resolution, making it compatible with various devices. Renowned for its robust editing tools, flexible interface, and GPU acceleration, Premiere Pro is highly regarded by professionals.
Compatibility: Windows & macOS
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using Adobe Premiere Pro:
Step 1: Import 4K Footage
Launch Premiere Pro, create a project and import the 4K footage you wish to downscale. Double-click on the "Import media to start" panel to open the dialog box for adding media files.
Step 2: Create Sequence
Drag your imported video file into the "Drag media here to create sequence" panel to initiate sequence creation.
Step 3: Adjust Sequence Settings
Navigate to the "Sequence" file menu and select "Sequence Settings…" Within the pop-up window, enter "1920" for the horizontal and "1080" for the vertical dimensions under "Frame Sizes." Enable "Maximum Bit Depth" and "Maximum Render Quality" for optimal results, then click "OK" to save changes.
Step 4: Scale Video
After applying changes, the video may appear zoomed in the preview window. Click on the source video in the "Sequence" panel to activate the "Effect Controls" window. Expand "Motion" under "Video" options, then adjust the "Scale" value from 100 to 50 to view the video correctly.
Step 5: Export Video
Opt for the "Export" feature within the "File" menu, and then select "Media…" from the side-kick menu. Make any necessary adjustments in the pop-up window, then click "Export" to render the final 1080P file.
Pros
Offers extensive video editing options, including native file support and proxy workflows.
Its Auto Reframe tool ensures that important content remains in the frame after downscaling.
Users can further enhance output quality with additional features like trimming, animation effects, and audio editing.
AI helps to animate titles & mix audio for a more professional effect.
Cons
A steep learning curve makes it an ill-fit for novice users.
3. VideoProc
VideoProc Converter AI employs a motion-adaptive pixel scaling algorithm to maintain quality during conversion. Support for over 370 formats and preset output profiles simplifies the conversion process for various devices and platforms. Notably, its level-3 hardware acceleration enables swift conversion, approximately seven times faster than real-time playback speed.
Compatibility: Windows & macOS
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using VideoProc:
Step 1: Access VideoProc Interface
Navigate to the VideoProc landing dashboard and click the "Video" icon to open the video conversion interface.
Step 2: Add 4K Video
Click the "Video" icon to open a file browser dialog box. Locate the source 4K file and add it to the interface.
Step 3: Select Output Format
In the "Target Format" panel at the bottom, click on the "Video" tab and browse through available formats to find your preferred one.
Step 4: Set Output Resolution
Click on the codec "Option" button to open a window where you can adjust parameters. Select the "Format" tab, navigate to the "Video Codec Options" section, and choose "1920 x 1080" from the "Resolution" dropdown menu. Save changes by clicking "Done."
Step 5: Determine the Output Folder and Start the Process
Select your preferred output folder, then click the "RUN" button to initiate the downscaling process.
Pros
Utilizing just 2% CPU, it is the perfect choice for basic computers.
Level-3 GPU acceleration delivers fast conversion speed.
Simple UI makes it well-suited for beginners.
Cons
You can't access this software on a smartphone.
4. Movavi Video Converter
Experience the unmatched speed of media conversion with Movavi, a one-of-a-kind tool that can handle resolutions as high as 8K and supports over 180 media formats, including AVI, MKV, MOV, MP4, and more. Seamlessly convert your 4K videos into 1080p or lower resolutions for optimal viewing on a variety of devices.
Compatibility: Windows & macOS
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using Movavi Video Converter:
Step 1. Import Your Video File
Launch Movavi Video Converter. Press the "Add Media" button, and then choose "Add Video" from the upper left corner of the interface. Browse the video files you want to convert and click "Open."
Step 2. Select Output Format and Resolution
Go to the "Video" section located at the bottom of the interface. Now select "MP4", and pick the desired preset for your screen resolution to 1080p.
Step 3. Downscale 4K to 1080p
Specify the destination folder for your converted files by clicking the "Save to" button. Start the conversion by clicking "Convert" in the bottom right corner. Once the process is complete, the folder with the converted file will open automatically.
Pros
Being an extremely user-friendly tool, it strikes the right balance between functionality & simplicity.
A user-friendly interface makes it well-suited for everyday use.
In-app tutorials make the learning curve smaller.
Cons
Often, users complain about its slow processing speed.
5. Talkhelper Video Converter
TalkHelper Video Converter is an exceptional program for downsizing 4K to 1080P. It supports a plethora of popular video/audio formats and codecs, including AVCHD, TS, MKV, H.264/AVC, TOD/MOD, FLV, AMV, DVD, AVI, MP4, MOV, MPEG, ASF, RMVB, WMV, SWF, 3GP, M4V, and RM, among others.
Compatibility: Windows
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using FreeConvert:
Step 1: Add Source 4K Video
Start TalkHelper Video Converter and expand the “Add media” drop-down menu. Select the “Add Video File…” option to open a file explorer dialog. Locate and add your source 4K video file.
Step 2: Select Output Format and Resolution
Navigate to the panel at the bottom and click on the “Video” tab. Scroll through the available formats and choose your preferred output format. Select the sub-format with “Full HD 1080p” resolution.
Step 3: Adjust Additional Parameters
Click on the “More parameters” option to adjust extra output parameters. Once satisfied, hit the “Start Convert” button to initiate the downsizing process from 4K to 1080P resolution.
Pros
Handling multiple 4K videos becomes effortless with batch conversion mode, saving valuable time and effort.
TalkHelper Video Converter ensures seamless compatibility with various devices and delivers high-quality output through advanced algorithms.
You can enjoy lossless video conversion.
Customizable presets streamline the downsizing process, eliminating the need for extensive manual adjustments.
Cons
You need to switch to the paid plan to access most of its features.
6. MiniTool Video Converter
MiniTool Video Converter offers versatile functionality beyond simple video conversion, doubling as a 4K to 1080P converter, screen recorder, and YouTube downloader. With its batch conversion capability, you can efficiently process multiple 4K videos to 1080P without watermarks. This Windows-based software supports numerous conversions and serves as a comprehensive solution for converting audio and video files across various audio & video formats. Best of all, it's free to use.
Compatibility: Windows
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using MiniTool Video Converter:
Step 1. Download, Install, and Open MiniTool Video Converter
Download the MiniTool Video Converter and follow the instructions to install it on your computer. Once installed, launch the software.
Step 2. Import Your 4K Video
Hit the "Add Files" button to choose and import the desired 4K video file from your computer into the software.
Step 3. Convert 4K Video to 1080P
Under "Target," click the diagonal icon to open the output window. Choose "Video" and select an output format, opting for the "HD 1080P" option. For customization, click the "Edit" icon to adjust settings such as quality, encoder, frame rate, bitrate, sample rate, and channel.
Step 4. Initiate the Conversion Process
Press the "Convert" button to convert the 4K video to 1080P. If you have multiple 4K videos to convert, click the "Convert All" button situated at the bottom right of the window.
Step 5. Review the Converted 1080P Video
Once the conversion is complete, navigate to the "Converted" section to locate the newly converted 1080P video.
Pros
Users can sync the settings according to their preferences to attain the desired output.
It relies on advanced algorithms for fast conversion speeds.
It is compatible with a diverse array of formats, ensuring suitability for different devices.
Intuitive interface caters to users with different technical proficiencies.
Cons
It does not offer advanced features typically needed by professional video editors.
Convert 4K to 1080p Using Open-Source Tools
1. VLC Media Player
VLC media player is renowned for its robust video playback and converting capabilities, making it a versatile tool for multimedia tasks. It excels in playing and converting 4K videos across various formats, offering features like video resolution adjustment, rotation, and video clip recording.
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using VLC
Step 1: Open VLC Media Player
After installing VLC on your computer, launch the application.
Step 2: Access Conversion Options
Navigate to the window's top-left corner and click "Media." From the dropdown menu, select "Convert/Save…"
Step 3: Add 4K Video
In the "File" tab, click the "+Add…" button to import the 4K video you wish to downscale. Then, click on "Convert/Save" to proceed.
Step 4: Choose Conversion Profile
Expand the "Profile" list and select "Video for MPEG4 1080p TV/device." You also have the option to generate a new profile by choosing "Create a new profile." Select an output format, navigate to "Video codec," and check the "Video" box. Move to the "Resolution" tab and modify the width and height accordingly. Enter a name for the profile and click "Create" to save it. Then, select the newly created profile.
Step 5: Select Output Location and Start Conversion
Click on "Browse" to choose a destination for the converted file. Once done, click "Start" to downscale the 4K video to 1080P.
Pros
VLC can stream online content and save it locally.
With support for a wide array of formats, including MKV, MP4, WMV, and MP3, it's compatible with popular operating systems.
VLC is free and open-source.
VLC offers preset profiles for easy conversion and live preview capabilities.
Cons
VLC lacks support for codecs like H.265 and VP9, shared in 4K videos, which may impact performance.
2. Handbrake
HandBrake offers a user-friendly and flexible solution for converting 4K to 1080P for free on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It provides preset options for various devices and platforms, allowing basic and advanced encoding adjustments. With support for popular video and audio encoders like H.265 and AAC, HandBrake ensures quality retention during downscaling.
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using Handbrake:
Step 1: Download and Install HandBrake
Visit the HandBrake website, download the software, and install it on your computer. Once installed, open the software.
Step 2: Import 4K Video
Tap on "File" or drag and drop the 4K video into the HandBrake program to import it.
Step 3: Choose Preset or Adjust Dimensions
Access the "Presets" option from the top menu bar. Then, go to "Presets > General" and choose the preferred 1080p30 setting. Instead, navigate to the "Dimensions" tab and enter "1920" in the Width field and "1080" in the Height field.
Step 4: Adjust Output Format and Destination
Change the output format if needed and select a new destination folder for the converted file.
Step 5: Start Encoding
Tap on "Start Encode" to begin the conversion process and downscale the video resolution from 4K to 1080P.
Pros
Its batch convert feature enables processing multiple 4K files efficiently.
HandBrake supports common video formats like MP4, MKV, and WEBM.
Users can add subtitles, apply filters, crop videos, and more.
You can rip DVDs.
Cons
It might be difficult for novice users to master.
Online 4K to 1080p Converters
1. HDconvert
HDconvert is renowned for quickly downscaling videos to high-quality HD footage with a user-friendly interface. It offers free online conversion to various formats with incredible speeds of up to 900 frames/sec. No software or plugins are required for installation, and it supports popular output formats like MP4, AVI, MOV, and MP3.
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using HDconvert
Step 1: Select 1080P Output Size
Click on the option for 1080P as the desired output file size.
Step 2: Browse and Upload Source File
Click "Browse" to locate and select the source file. The process may take a few seconds or minutes, depending on the file size.
Step 3: Download Converted Video
After conversion, locate the converted file by clicking on "File." Once found, click "Download" to save the target video on your PC.
Pros
The converter allows conversion to different qualities, including 720p, 1080p, 4K.
There are options for reducing file sizes.
It supports various compression levels, such as 240p, 360p, 480p, 576p, and 640p.
The speed is exceptionally high, enabling quick conversion even for large files.
Cons
Users have complained about sluggish uploading and downloading speed.
2. FreeConvert
FreeConvert is an online 4K to 1080P converter tool offering comprehensive features for various file conversions, video compression, cropping, trimming, and GIF creation. It supports uploading videos up to 1GB in size from your computer, Dropbox, Google Drive, or URL. Premium plans also provide an ad-free experience, priority processing for faster conversion speeds, and the ability to merge up to 100 files simultaneously.
How to Downscale 4k to 1080p Using FreeConvert:
Step 1. Access FreeConvert Website
Visit the FreeConvert website to initiate the downsizing process.
Step 2. Select Output Format
Navigate to the VIDEO Converters section and choose your desired output format, such as MP4.
Step 3. Upload 4K Video
Tap "Choose Files" to upload your 4K video to the platform.
Step 4. Adjust Resolution Settings
Upon uploading, click the settings icon to modify the output video resolution. Select "1920×1080 (1080p)" from the Advanced Options window's Video Screen Size drop-down list. Customize other output settings as necessary and then apply the changes.
Step 5. Initiate Conversion
Click "Convert To MP4" to begin the downsizing process from 4K to 1080P.
Step 6. Save Downscaled Video
Once the conversion is complete, save the downscaled video to your device for further use.
Pros
Compatible with 60 video formats, including popular ones like MP4, AVI, and MKV.
FreeConvert ensures security with 256-bit encryption and automatic file deletion after two hours.
It comes with advanced options for seamless conversions.
You don't need to download separate software to convert 4K to 1080p and other resolutions.
Cons
The free plan has a 1GB file size limit.tures.
Conclusion
As we move towards widespread adoption of 4K technology, opting to convert to 1080P remains a viable choice for experiencing high-quality visuals. Today, we've introduced convenient methods to downscale 4K to 1080P, ensuring accessibility for users of all levels. With various tools, selecting the suitable converter depends on individual preferences and needs. For beginners, UniFab Video Converter stands out for its blend of speed, simplicity, stability, and versatility.
FAQs
Is there a 4K to 1080P converter without watermark?
Yes, UniFab Video Converter offers a 30-day free trial without watermarks. You can use it to convert 4K to 1080P and explore its features during the trial period.
How can I upscale 1080p video to 4K or 8K?
You can use UniFab Video Upscaler to easily upscale 1080p video to 4K or even 8K. Simply upload your 1080p video, and this AI Video Enhancer will will enhance the resolution with remarkable detail, delivering smooth, high-quality results. Enjoy a 30-day free trial with all features and no watermarks.
For additional options and performance reviews, check out this article on 8K Video Enhancer.
How long does it take to convert 4K to 1080P?
The time it takes to convert 4K to 1080P depends on factors like file size, software performance, and system speed.
What is the optimal resolution for video editing?
For optimal resolution and quality, 1080p is recommended. Videos saved in 1080p can be viewed on large screens such as TVs or projectors without appearing blurry or glitchy.