What happens when you convert MKV to MP4
| Inside a typical MKV | H.264, HEVC (H.265) or VP9 video with AAC, AC-3 or Opus audio |
|---|---|
| Copy without re-encoding | Sometimes: it depends on the codec inside your file, and Smart mode checks this automatically |
| When re-encoded | H.264 video with AAC audio |
| Extra tracks | Only the first video and audio track are kept; extra audio tracks and subtitles are dropped |
| Opens in | every phone, browser, TV, editor and social network |
Sizes are typical values; your files will vary with content and settings.
MKV Matroska Video
MKV is an open container that can hold almost any codec plus multiple audio tracks and subtitles. It is popular for archived films and series.
MKV converterMP4 MPEG-4 Part 14
MP4 is the universal video container. With H.264 video and AAC audio it plays on every phone, browser, smart TV and social network, which makes it the safest choice for sharing.
MP4 converterHow to use the MKV to MP4 Converter
- 1
Choose a MKV file or drop it onto the page.
- 2
Review the video options. The defaults suit most files.
- 3
Click Convert and download your MP4 when processing finishes.
Why convert MKV to MP4?
MKV is common for films, TV episodes and OBS recordings, because one file can hold several audio and subtitle tracks. iPhones, browsers and most social networks will not play MKV files. Choose MP4 to upload to social media, send in a chat app or play on any phone and TV.
Frequently asked questions
Will the MP4 lose quality?
Both formats are lossy, so converting re-encodes the data once more. Using a high quality setting keeps the generational loss very small. Avoid converting the same file back and forth repeatedly.
Does converting MKV to MP4 re-encode the video?
Sometimes: it depends on the codec inside your file, and Smart mode checks this automatically. A typical MKV contains H.264, HEVC (H.265) or VP9 video with AAC, AC-3 or Opus audio. Otherwise the result is H.264 with AAC audio.
Questions about privacy, file-size limits or conversion speed are answered in the general FAQ.