Are you looking to convert your MKV videos into the more compatible MP4 format? MKV and MP4 are both video container formats, but MP4 has wider device support. In this comprehensive guide, we will overview everything you need to know about MKV and MP4 formats. We will also provide 11 of the best free online MKV to MP4 converters to seamlessly transition your videos.
What is an MKV File?
MKV stands for Matroska Video and is an open standard container format that can hold unlimited video, audio, subtitle, and metadata tracks in a single file. MKV was designed as a future-proof format that could support new codecs and features without breaking backwards compatibility.
Some key features of MKV files include:
- Supports all modern video and audio codecs like H.264, HEVC, VP8/VP9, AV1, AC3, Opus, Vorbis etc.
- Excellent support for subtitles – both soft subtitles (separate track) and hard subtitles (baked into video).
- Chapters, attachments, album art and other metadata can be stored.
- Highly extensible to support new codecs and features without breaking older files.
- Not limited by codecs, resolution, bitrates or file size.
- Fast seeking for quickly navigating to any position in the video.
Due to its flexibility, MKV is commonly used for high definition Blu-ray rips and online streaming. However, MKV has limited compatibility with devices compared to the MP4 format.
What is an MP4 File?
MP4 is also a container format that can store video, audio, subtitles and metadata in a single file. It was designed to provide efficient streaming and compression for online videos and is based on the QuickTime (.MOV) format.
Key features of MP4 include:
- Wide compatibility across devices like smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, media players etc.
- Efficient compression using advanced codecs like H.264 and HEVC for smaller file sizes.
- Streaming-friendly design optimal for online distribution.
- Limited by technical constraints like max resolution of 4096×4096 and max file size of 4 GB.
- Locked down by patents requiring licensing fees for commercial use.
The MP4 format rose to popularity due to its device compatibility. It is commonly used for online streaming services, social media platforms, downloads, and HD video storage.
Why Convert MKV to MP4?
There are several reasons you may want to convert your MKV files into the MP4 format:
Device Compatibility – Many devices like smartphones, tablets, game consoles, smart TVs, and media players support MP4 but not MKV. Converting to MP4 allows the videos to be played on more devices.
Online Sharing – Websites like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram primarily accept MP4 videos for uploading and streaming. MKV will need to be converted to MP4 for easy online distribution.
Save Space – MP4s can provide similar quality to MKV at nearly half the file size due to better compression. Converting can save storage space on devices.
Faster Streaming – The MP4 format is designed for optimal streaming over the internet and local networks. Converted videos will start faster and stream smoother.
By converting MKV to MP4, you gain wider compatibility at the cost of losing some features like soft subtitles and chapters. Luckily, there are many great online tools that make the conversion process quick and easy.
11 Best Online MKV to MP4 Converters
Here are the top 11 free online converters to change MKV files into the MP4 format:
1. CloudConvert
CloudConvert is an industry leader trusted by over 3 million users worldwide. It offers 300+ format conversions, batch uploading, file compression, and integration with cloud storage services.
To convert, simply upload your MKV files or enter a link to start converting to MP4 instantly. You can also choose advanced output settings like video codec, quality, FPS, resolution etc. Files up to 50 GB can be converted for free without registration.
2. Online-Convert
Online-Convert supports more than 1200 file conversions with 200+ video formats. It provides browser-based uploading and URL conversion along with useful presets.
The clean interface makes it easy for beginners to convert MKV to MP4. Simply add files, select output format as MP4 and start converting. For advanced users, parameters like codec, resolution, bitrate etc. can be customized.
3. FileZigZag
FileZigZag is a popular online file converter with a simple drag-and-drop interface. It supports bulk conversion and auto-deletion of files for privacy.
To convert MKV, you can upload from your device, Google Drive, Dropbox or via URL. Output video settings like codec, quality, size etc. can be customized before converting to MP4. The tool is easy to use with no registration required.
4. Convertio
Convertio is a free online converter supporting over 300 different file formats including common and rare video types. It allows file uploads from computer, cloud drives or URL.
You get options to tweak quality, codec, aspect ratio while converting MKV to MP4. Converted files are auto-deleted after 24 hours. An account can be created to access converted files for longer duration.
5. Zamzar
Zamzar has been a popular web conversion service for over a decade. It supports conversion between 1200+ formats including images, audio, video, documents etc.
To use it, add your MKV file and provide an email address. After conversion to MP4, you will receive a download link via email. For privacy, files are automatically deleted after conversion.
6. CloudConvert
CloudConvert provides an enterprise-grade API-based conversion platform used by companies like Adobe, Apple, Disney etc. It supports over 300 formats with advanced customization and security.
Using the intuitive UI, you can convert MKV videos up to 50GB for free without registration. Options are available to tweak resolution, codec, bitrate, FPS and other parameters. Integrates with cloud storage providers.
7. Online Video Converter
Online Video Converter provides a quick way to convert videos into MP4 and other formats. It accepts files up to 50 MB without registration.
To use, upload your MKV file and select MP4 as output format. You can modify resolution before starting the conversion. Files are automatically deleted after 1 hour. No advanced settings available.
8. OnlineConvertFree
OnlineConvertFree lets you change MKV files into MP4 directly in the browser without registration. It accepts files up to 50 MB in size.
Simply upload your MKV video and select MP4 as output format. Click on convert to start the process. No advanced settings but useful for basic MKV to MP4 conversions. Output files are deleted after 2 hours.
9. File Converter
File Converter offers a minimal interface focused on quick file conversions. It supports conversion between 1300+ file formats without limits.
To convert MKV, upload file and choose MP4 as output. You can pick compression level and customize resolution before conversion. No account signup needed and all files are deleted post-conversion.
10. FreeConvert
FreeConvert provides a simple way to convert MKV files up to 1 GB completely free. It offers over 200 supported formats.
Uploading MKV files provides pre-configured profiles for conversion to MP4 based on device. You can also manually modify video resolution, aspect ratio, and frame rates before converting.
11. ConvertFiles
ConvertFiles makes it easy to change MKV to MP4 right within your web browser. It accepts files up to 1 GB with secure 256-bit SSL encryption.
Simply upload your MKV file, select MP4 format and click convert to begin conversion. Advanced customization of output settings is not available. Files are permanently deleted post-conversion.
Conclusion
Converting MKV video files into the more compatible MP4 format can be easily achieved using free online tools. We covered the top 11 browser-based MKV to MP4 converters that are secure, easy to use and provide great results.
For optimal quality, we recommend using CloudConvert or FileZigZag. They allow full customization of output parameters like resolution, bitrate, codec etc. For basic quick conversions, tools like OnlineVideoConverter and FreeConvert are great options without registration.
Now you can effortlessly convert your MKV videos to enjoy on more devices and platforms. Let us know if you have any other favorite online MKV to MP4 converters we should check out!
