Published on Mar 05, 2025 5 min read

Struggling with Video Formats? Try These 5 Free Converters

Video files can be tricky. They come in all sorts of formats, and sometimes, your device or software just refuses to play a particular one. That’s when you need a good free video converter—a tool that can change a video from one format to another without costing a cent. Whether you're looking to compress a large file, make a video compatible with your phone, or simply edit formats for smoother playback, there are plenty of options available. The best part? Many of them are completely free and easy to use.

With so many options floating around, it can be tough to pick the right one. That's why we have listed 5 of the top video conversion tools that won't leave a hole in your wallet. They are easy, efficient, and compatible with multiple platforms, making your video conversion process a breeze.

Top 5 Free Tools to Convert Videos

Here are the top 5 free tools to convert videos that you might find useful. They offer various formats, compression options, and high-quality output.

HandBrake – The Open-Source Powerhouse

HandBrake is perhaps the most popular free video converter software available and for a good reason. It's been around for years, getting better and better, and is used by professionals and amateurs alike. What sets HandBrake apart is that it can convert nearly any video format.

It's open-source software, which means it's totally free without any surprise costs. If you want to compress a huge 4K video into a smaller file that you can work with or adjust settings for better quality, HandBrake lets you do that with complete control. It also offers presets so you can convert with ease—choose a format, and you're done.

Though it's filled with sophisticated features, it's not the easiest tool for newbies. The interface may be a tad daunting initially, but once you learn your way around it, HandBrake is an indispensable resource for file conversions at a rapid pace.

Freemake Video Converter – A Simple and Fast Option

Freemake Video Converter is another solid choice for hassle-free video conversion. It’s designed with simplicity in mind, making it a great option for those who don’t want to mess around with complex settings. You can easily convert videos to various formats, including MP4, AVI, MKV, and even formats optimized for smartphones and tablets.

One of the best things about Freemake is its speed. It converts videos quickly without compromising too much on quality. The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to select and process multiple files at once.

However, there’s a small catch—while the basic conversion features are free, some advanced options require a premium upgrade. If you’re looking for a straightforward video conversion tool without needing too many customizations, Freemake is a solid pick.

Any Video Converter – Versatile and Reliable

Any Video Converter (AVC) is a powerful and well-rounded free video converter that supports a huge range of formats. Whether you’re working with MP4, MOV, or even rare file types, AVC can handle them all. The best part? It comes with additional features like basic video editing, allowing you to trim clips, add effects, and tweak audio settings before conversion.

Another advantage of AVC is its built-in YouTube downloader, which lets you save and convert online videos directly to your preferred format. This is especially useful if you need offline access to content.

The free version does everything most people need, but like Freemake, some premium features require an upgrade. Still, if you need a balance between functionality and ease of use, AVC is an excellent choice.

VLC Media Player – More Than Just a Video Player

VLC is widely known as a media player, but not many realize it also functions as a video conversion tool. If you already have VLC installed on your computer, you don't need to download extra software—it can easily convert videos into different formats.

The process is simple: open VLC, go to the "Media" menu, select "Convert/Save," and choose the format you want. It might not offer as many customization options as dedicated converters like HandBrake, but for basic conversions, VLC gets the job done.

Since it's free and open-source and doesn't come with annoying ads or premium restrictions, VLC is a great option if you need a quick and reliable way to convert videos without installing new software.

OnlineConvert – Convert Videos Without Installing Software

If you don’t want to install a program on your computer, OnlineConvert is a fantastic web-based video conversion tool. It allows you to convert videos directly from your browser—just upload your file, select a format, and let the tool do the rest.

One of OnlineConvert's biggest advantages is its convenience. You can use it from any device, whether it’s a computer, tablet, or phone. It supports a variety of formats and even lets you tweak settings like resolution and bitrate before converting.

However, since it's an online tool, it does have limitations. The free version may restrict file size, and conversion speeds depend on your internet connection. If you're dealing with large files or need regular conversions, a desktop tool might be a better fit. However, for quick, one-off conversions, OnlineConvert is a great alternative.

Conclusion

Choosing the right free video converter depends on your needs. If you want advanced features, HandBrake is unbeatable. For an easy, fast solution, Freemake or Any Video Converter works well. If you already have VLC, its built-in converter is a handy bonus. For those who prefer web-based tools, OnlineConvert offers quick conversions without installation. Each of these tools provides a hassle-free way to convert videos without spending money. Whether for personal or professional use, having a reliable converter makes handling different formats effortless. Pick the one that fits your workflow, and you’ll never struggle with video formats again.