1 Know your formats

Before you convert your video files, you should know what formats you are dealing with, and what they are best suited for. Video formats consist of two components: a container and a codec. A container is the file extension that holds the video, audio, and metadata, such as .mp4, .mov, or .avi. A codec is the algorithm that compresses and decompresses the video and audio data, such as H.264, MPEG-4, or DivX. Different formats have different features, such as compatibility, quality, file size, and editing flexibility. For example, .mp4 is a widely supported format that offers good quality and compression, but may not preserve all the metadata or editing options. .mov is a native format for Apple devices and software, that offers high quality and editing features, but may not be compatible with other platforms or devices. .avi is an older format that can store uncompressed video and audio, but may result in large file sizes and compatibility issues.

2 Choose the right converter

Once you know your formats, you need to choose a video converter that can handle them without losing data. There are many video converters available online, both free and paid, but not all of them are reliable, safe, or efficient. Some may introduce malware, ads, or watermarks to your files, or may not support the formats you need. Some may also alter the quality, aspect ratio, or frame rate of your videos, or may not preserve the metadata or subtitles. To avoid these problems, you should look for a video converter that has the following features: a user-friendly interface, a wide range of supported formats, a fast and stable performance, a customizable output settings, and a preview option. Some examples of video converters that meet these criteria are HandBrake, VLC Media Player, and Freemake Video Converter.

3 Adjust the settings

After you select your video converter, you need to adjust the settings to optimize the output quality and file size. Depending on your converter, you may have different options to tweak, such as resolution, bitrate, frame rate, aspect ratio, audio quality, and filters. Generally, you should aim for the highest resolution and bitrate that your device or platform can support, without exceeding the file size limit or compromising the playback speed. You should also match the frame rate and aspect ratio of the source and the output videos, to avoid distortion or cropping. You can also use filters to enhance the color, contrast, or sharpness of your videos, but be careful not to overdo it or create artifacts. You should always preview your output before converting, to check for any errors or issues.

4 Backup your files

Before you start converting your video files, you should always backup your original files to a safe location, such as an external hard drive or a cloud service. This way, you can avoid losing your data in case of a power outage, a system crash, or a conversion failure. You can also restore your files if you are not satisfied with the output quality or format. Backing up your files is especially important if you are converting large or important videos, such as wedding videos, documentaries, or professional projects.

5 Batch convert your files

If you have multiple video files to convert, you can save time and effort by batch converting them. Batch converting means converting several files at once, instead of one by one. Most video converters have a batch converting option, where you can add multiple files to a queue, select a common output format and settings, and start the conversion process. Batch converting can speed up the conversion process, as well as ensure consistency and accuracy across your files. However, you should also monitor the progress and check the output files for any errors or discrepancies.

6 Test your output files

After you finish converting your video files, you should test them on the device or platform that you intend to use them for. You should check if they play smoothly, if they have the correct resolution and aspect ratio, if they have the desired quality and file size, and if they have the metadata and subtitles intact. You should also compare them with the original files, to see if there are any noticeable differences or data loss. If you find any problems or issues with your output files, you can try to fix them by adjusting the settings, using a different converter, or restoring the original files.