How to Convert MOV to MP4?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the reasons to switch and how to do it with ease, using a simple app called UniFab.

What is MOV Format?

Image Credit: Handy Recovery Advisor

Apple had developed the MOV video format so that it works seamlessly with their QuickFrame framework. Since then, the format has witnessed a steady rise in popularity. This format is capable of storing audio, text, and video tracks in separate streams all within the same file. This feature makes MOV a favorite among professional video editors, as it supports high-defintion content and complex editing tools.

However, MOV’s primary drawback is its limited compatibility. While it is ideal for certain devices and formats, especially Apple-related, MOV files often encounter issues when played on non-Apple platforms, making it necessary for video editors, content creators, and other creatives to convert the format to something more popular like MP4.

Major Advantages:

1. Incredible Quality: The MOV format is very well preferred in professional settings due to its incredible quality, both for video and audio.
2. Good for Editing: Since it enables editors and professionals to work on individual media tracks, it is a great format to edit videos in.
3. Flexibility: You can edit videos in various codecs in the MOV format, which also includes 4K and HDR content.

Primary Drawbacks:

1. File Sizes: Considering the highly detailed videos that this format produces, you will also need to consider the larger file sizes that are exported.
2. Less Compatibility: While MOV formats work perfectly fine with Apple devices, they require additional codecs or steps to have the same level of playability on other devices, which can be a nuisance.

What is MP4 Format?

MP4, or MPEG-4 Part 14, is one of the most widely used video file formats today. It is a format that has been around for years and has become a standard. The two primary appealing factors of MP4 are: great level of compatibility and lesser file sizes. MP4’s versatility stems from its compatibility with nearly all devices, operating systems, and platforms. It’s a preferred format for streaming, online sharing, and mobile playback.

MP4 files use advanced compression techniques, balancing quality and file size, which makes them a top choice for everyday video storage and distribution.

Major Advantages:

1. Streaming Friendly: Most online platforms, including the giants like YouTube and Instagram, work much better with the MP4 format as it processes faster.
2. Better Compatibility: Continuing from the previous point, another reason for MP4 to be a popular choice is due to its remarkable compatibility. MP4 enjoys wide range of support from most platforms and apps.
3. Easier Storage: It is much easier to store and transfer MP4 content due to its smaller size.

Primary Drawbacks:

1. Artifacts: If an MP4 file is too heavily compressed, there is a chance of artifacts appearing in the videos, which can be bothersome.
2. Editing: MP4 files are not highly preferred for editing, as they do not give as much flexibility as MOV or other files.

Why Convert MOV to MP4?

Compatibility: Wide Support for Playability Across Most Platforms

As mentioned previously, the MOV format was developed by Apple, in order to cater to their QuickFrame technology. As such, the MOV format goes really well with Apple devices but requires additional codecs for the same level of playability with devices not from Apple.

In contrast, MP4 is universally supported, ensuring smooth playback on virtually any device or software. Whether you're sharing a video with a colleague using Windows or streaming it on an Android phone, MP4 eliminates compatibility issues, making it a universally accessible format.

Example: Suppose you’ve created a promotional video in MOV format. If you plan to distribute it widely, whether on social media, via email, or through a web portal, converting it to MP4 ensures everyone can view it without extra steps.

2. Storage Efficiency: Save Space Without Compromising Quality

MOV files, while excellent for retaining high-quality video, are notorious for their large sizes. High-resolution MOV files can quickly consume storage space on your device, especially when dealing with extensive video libraries. MP4’s advanced compression algorithms allow you to reduce file sizes significantly without noticeable quality loss, making it an ideal format for efficient storage.

This smaller size also benefits those who frequently transfer files via email or cloud storage, where size limits might otherwise pose a problem.

Example: A 5-minute 4K MOV video can occupy hundreds of megabytes, but the same video in MP4 format might be compressed to less than half the size.

3. Streaming: Better Suited for Online Platforms and Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube have specific video format requirements. MP4 is the universally preferred format for these platforms due to its small file size, fast upload speeds, and consistent streaming quality. MOV files, on the other hand, may not upload as seamlessly, and larger sizes can slow down processing times.

Additionally, MP4’s compression ensures smooth playback without buffering, even on slower internet connections, making it ideal for viewers worldwide.

Example: If you’re a content creator uploading tutorial videos to YouTube, converting your MOV files to MP4 ensures they upload faster and play smoothly for your audience.

Also, if you need avi to MP4, you can learn.

How to Convert MOV to MP4?

Step 1: Install the UniFab Video Converter through the link attached. Once you do, you can start a free trial and get access to the tools. Use the "Converter" section to the left.

Step 2: Upload your video and click on the "Format" option in the section. You can choose from the options given. For this example, we will choose MP4 as our final format. Once you're ready, click on the "Start" option at the right-bottom.

Step 3: The video will be processed and saved in your device. You can navigate to the file and play it.

With UniFab, you can convert and edit videos in mere minutes.