How to Convert MKV to MP4 on Windows, Mac, and Online

Many users struggle with playing MKV files on their devices or editing software. Here are some real forum questions that reflect common user concerns:

"Why won't my MKV file play on my iPhone or Premiere Pro? How can I convert it to MP4 without losing quality?"

"I have hundreds of MKV files I need to batch convert to MP4. What's the easiest way?"

MKV (Matroska Video) is a popular format for high-quality videos, but it's not universally supported. MP4, on the other hand, is widely compatible with most devices and editing tools. In this guide, we'll show you how to convert MKV to MP4 through the most effective ways, from desktop software to online converters.

Part 1. How to Convert MKV to MP4 with HitPaw Univd

Looking for a fast, high-quality, and hassle-free way to convert MKV to MP4? HitPaw Univd makes the entire process simple and seamless-even for beginners. Whether you're working with large video files, need to convert batches at once, or want to preserve original quality, this desktop software has you covered.

With support for over 1000 video and audio formats, HitPaw Univd lets you convert MKV to MP4 with ultra-fast GPU acceleration and no quality loss. It also offers editing tools like trimming, merging, and resolution enhancement (up to 8K), making it more than just a converter.

Step 1. Install The Program on Your Windows PC or Mac

Freed download and install HitPaw Univd to computer, open it and navigate to the Converter tab.

Step 2. Import MKV Files

Click Add Files > Add Video to import your MKV files for conversion. You can also drap & drop MKV files directly to the conversion zone.

Step 3. Select Output Format as MP4

Click the "Convert all to" option to expand the output format list. In the Video tab, find MP4 and choose the preferrable quality like 4K, 2K, 1080p, etc.

Step 4. Start Converting MKV to MP4 with 120X Faster

HitPaw Univd supports batch conversion, so you can click the Convert All button to start the conversion process in bulk. It utilizes full GPU acceleration for super-fast conversion.

Step 5. Access the MP4 Files after Conversion

After conversion, you can switch to the Converted tab to find the converted MP4 files. Here you can play the MP4 videos using the built-in player, or import the file to Editor menu.

Part 2: Best MKV to MP4 Converters Review

When converting MKV to MP4, choosing the right tool depends on your device, technical skills, and conversion needs (batch, file size, speed). Below is a comparison table followed by detailed reviews of the top 12 MKV to MP4 converters.

1. HitPaw Univd

HitPaw Univd is an all-in-one AI-powered video converter that excels at batch conversion, ultra-fast speed, and lossless quality. It supports thousands of formats and offers edit options like trimming, merging, and enhancing videos.

Key Features:

• Converts MKV to MP4 and other 1000+ formats
• GPU acceleration for 120x faster speed
• Batch conversion with no file size limit
• Built-in editing tools
• Supports up to 8K videos
• AI tools to enhance video, blur faces, convert speech to text, etc.

2. VLC Media Player

VLC is a free media player with basic video conversion capabilities. Ideal for quick and small conversions on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 on VLC.

• Open VLC > Media > Convert/Save.
• Add your MKV file.
• Click "Convert", choose MP4 profile.
• Set destination and click "Start".

Related read: Convert MKV to MP4 with VLC on Windows and Mac Quickly

3. HandBrake

HandBrake is a powerful open-source converter with rich presets and encoding options. Ideal for users who need advanced control over video quality and file size.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 using Handbrake

• Launch HandBrake and load your MKV file.
• Select "MP4" in the "Format" section.
• Adjust quality settings if needed.
• Click "Start Encode".

4. FFmpeg

FFmpeg is a command-line tool used by professionals. It supports nearly all video operations and is extremely powerful-but not for beginners.

Read more: How to Convert MKV to MP4 Using FFmpeg on Windows and Mac

5. Avidemux

Avidemux is a free, open-source video editing and conversion tool that's available for quick format changes like MKV to MP4. It supports a wide range of video formats and offers a simple interface, making it beginner-friendly.

Steps to Convert MKV to MP4 with Avidemux:

• Open Avidemuxand load your MKV file via File > Open.
• In the Video Output, choose Copyif you don't want to re-encode (faster), or select a codec like MPEG4 AVC (x264) for better compatibility.
• Set Audio Outputto Copy or choose a desired audio codec.
• Change the Output Formatto MP4 Muxer.
• Click File > Saveand name your file with a .mp4 extension.

6. NCH Prism Video Converter

NCH Prism Video Converter is a reliable and easy-to-use video conversion software developed by NCH Software. It supports a wide range of video formats, including MKV and MP4, making it a solid choice for users who want a straightforward way to convert videos without compromising quality.

Key Features:

• Supports all popular video formats: MKV, MP4, AVI, MOV, and more
• Allows batch conversions for multiple files at once
• Offers video compression and resolution settings
• Built-in preview to check edits before converting
• Compatible with Windows and macOS

7. HitPaw Online Video Converter

HitPaw Online Video Converter is a free, web-based tool that makes converting MKV to MP4 simple, fast, and accessible from any browser. With no software installation required, it's perfect for users who want a quick solution without downloading a desktop app.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 online:

• Visit HitPaw Online Video Converter.
• Upload MKV file.
• Select MP4 as output.
• Download converted video.

8. CloudConvert

CloudConvert is a powerful MKV to MP4 converter online that supports over 200 formats, including MKV and MP4. It's widely trusted for its flexibility, security, and high-quality output, making it a great choice for users who need to convert MKV files to MP4 directly from their browser.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 online with CloudConvert

• Go to CloudConvert.com.
• Upload MKV file.
• Choose MP4 and adjust settings.
• Convert and download.

9. ZamZar

Zamzar is a long-standing and reliable online MKV to MP4 converter free that makes it easy to convert MKV to MP4 without installing any software. With a simple drag-and-drop interface and support for over 1,200 file types, Zamzar is ideal for users who want a quick and straightforward video conversion process.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 with ZamZar

• Visit ZamZar.com.
• Upload MKV, choose MP4.
• Enter email (optional).
• Convert and download.

10. Online-Convert

Online-Convert is a feature-rich, browser-based file conversion tool that supports a wide range of formats - including MKV to MP4. Known for its flexibility and detailed customization options, it's a great choice for users who want more control over their video conversions without needing to install software.

Steps to convert MKV to MP4 using Online-Convert

• Go to Online-Convert.com.
• Upload file and customize settings.
• Convert and download.

Part 3: Which MKV to MP4 Converter Should I Choose?

It depends on your needs:

Part 4: MKV vs MP4 - What's the Difference?

When it comes to video formats, MKV and MP4 are two of the most commonly used container formats - but they serve different purposes depending on your needs.

MKV (Matroska Video) is a flexible and open-source container that supports multiple video, audio, subtitle tracks, and metadata in a single file. It's a popular choice for high-quality video backups, Blu-ray rips, and media with advanced features like soft subtitles and multiple audio languages.

MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14), on the other hand, is a widely supported, compressed video format optimized for compatibility, speed, and streaming. It's the go-to format for web uploads, mobile playback, and video sharing across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and smartphones.

Part 5: FAQs

The Bottom Line

Whether you're dealing with device compatibility issues or prepping videos for editing or sharing, converting MKV to MP4 is a smart move. With tools ranging from powerful software like HitPaw Univd to simple online converters, there's a solution for every user scenario. Choose the best MKV to MP4 converter free based on your file size, batch needs, and platform-and enjoy smooth, high-quality playback anywhere.