How to Convert VCD DAT to MP4 Online/Windows PC/Mac
VCDs (Video CDs) were once a popular medium for storing video content, but modern devices and media players often lack compatibility with the VCD DAT file format. To enjoy your favorite videos on contemporary devices, converting DAT files to MP4—a widely accepted digital format—is the ideal solution. Whether you're using Windows, Mac, or prefer online tools, this guide will walk you through the best methods.
Part 1: What is VCD DAT Format?
When you insert a VCD into a drive and access it on your computer, you'll find videos stored in a folder named mpegav with a DAT extension. This DAT file uses compression coding for video, audio, graphics, and sometimes genomic data. While some media players can open DAT files, they are not universally compatible.
To avoid the hassle of repeatedly inserting VCDs, the best solution is to convert DAT to MP4 using a reliable VCD converter. This conversion ensures seamless playback on modern devices.
Part 2: Best Way to Convert VCD to MP4 on Windows and Mac
To digitize their video collection. Among the many tools available, HitPaw Univd (HitPaw Video Converter) stands out as a top choice for its ease of use, speed, and robust feature set. It can convert VCD DAT files to MP4 in high quality and fast speed, without any loss of data or quality. It also supports other popular formats, such as AVI, WMV, MOV, MKV, FLV, etc. You can also edit your videos before converting them, such as crop, trim, rotate, add watermark, adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, etc.
- Converts VCD DAT files to MP4, MPG, AVI, WMV, and more.
- Adjust video codecs, bitrates, frame rates, and other parameters.
- Convert multiple DAT files simultaneously to save time.
- Convert to HD, 4K, or even 8K quality while maintaining the original clarity.
- Advanced technology for speeds up to 120X faster than standard converters.
- Designed to make the process straightforward and accessible to all users
Step 1:Launch HitPaw Univd and either click "Add Video" to import your files or simply drag and drop them directly into the program.
Step 2:If desired, you can customize your video information by clicking on the file name to edit the title.
Step 3:For each file, select an output format by clicking the inverted triangle icon in the lower right corner.
Step 4:Select a target folder within the interface and initiate conversion by clicking "Convert" (or "Convert All" for multiple files). The video will be converted to the chosen format.
Part 3: How to Convert VCD to MP4 Using VLC
VLC Media Player is a popular and versatile VCD to MP4 converter online that can also convert VCD to MP4 online. You can use VLC to play your VCD discs and then convert them to MP4 files. However, you need to install VLC on your computer and have a VCD drive to read your discs. You also need to adjust some settings to get the best output quality.
Note: VLC media player only converts DRM-free VCD to other formats.
1.Install VLC Media Player on your Windows or Mac system. Connect your VCD to a compatible drive.
2.In VLC, navigate to Media > Open Disc and select SVCD/VCD.
3.Use the dropdown menu beside the Play button and choose Convert.
4.Under Profile, select "Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4)."
5.Set the destination folder for the converted file and start the process.
Pros:
- Free and powerful
- Supports multiple input and output formats
- Allows to adjust output settings and edit videos
Cons:
- Requires installation and VCD drive
- Complicated and time-consuming process
- May cause quality loss or errors
Part 4: How to Convert VCD to MP4 Online
If you don’t want to install any software on your computer, you can also try some online VCD converters that can convert VCD to MP4 online. However, you should be aware of the drawbacks of online converters, such as limited file size, slow speed, unstable connection, privacy risk, etc. Here are some of the online converters that you can use:
1. Online Converter
Online Converter is a free and simple online converter that can convert VCD to MP4 online. You can upload your VCD files from your computer, Google Drive, Dropbox, or URL. You can also choose the output quality and size of your MP4 files. However, the maximum file size is 200 MB, which may not be enough for some VCD files.
Pros:
- Free and easy to use
- Supports multiple input and output formats
- Allows to adjust output quality and size
Cons:
- Limited file size (200 MB)
- Slow speed and unstable connection
- No editing or preview functions
2. VideoSolo Online Video Converter
VideoSolo Online Video Converter is another free and online converter that can convert MP4 to VCD online. You can upload your VCD files from your computer or URL. You can also choose the output format and resolution of your MP4 files. However, the maximum file size is 100 MB, which is even smaller than Online Converter.
Pros:
- Free and easy to use
- Supports multiple output formats and resolutions
- No watermark or ads
Cons:
- Limited file size (100 MB)
- Slow speed and unstable connection
- No editing or preview functions
3. TheInfobits Online VCD Converter
TheInfobits Online VCD Converter is a new and innovative online converter that can convert MP4 to VCD online. You can upload your VCD files from your computer or URL. You can also choose the output format and quality of your MP4 files. TheInfobits Online VCD Converter uses advanced technology to ensure fast speed and high quality. However, the maximum file size is 500 MB, which may not be enough for some VCD files.
Pros:
- Free and easy to use
- Supports multiple output formats and qualities
- Fast speed and high quality
Cons:
- Limited file size (500 MB)
- No editing or preview functions
- May have privacy risk
Part 5: Frequently Asked Questions on VCD to MP4
Here are some of the frequently asked questions and answers about converting VCD to MP4:
Q1. How to convert VCD DAT to MP4?
A1. VCD DAT files are the video files stored on VCD discs. To convert VCD DAT to MP4, you can use any of the methods mentioned above. However, some online converters may not support DAT files, so you may need to rename them to MPG files before uploading them.
Q2. How to convert small VCD files to MP4?
A2. If you have small VCD files that are less than 100 MB, you can use any of the online converters to convert them to MP4. However, if you want to convert large VCD files, you may need to use HitPaw Univd or VLC Media Player, which have no file size limit and can provide better quality and speed.
Q3. How to Open VCD Files?
A3. You can use media players like VLC or KMPlayer to open VCD files. Alternatively, convert DAT files to MP4 using tools like HitPaw Univd for wider compatibility.
Q4. What is the Difference Between DVD and VCD?
A4.
Below are the main difference between DVD and VCD:
Conclusion
Converting VCD to MP4 is not a difficult task if you have the right tools and methods. In this article, we have shown you the top 5 ways to convert VCD to MP4 for Windows and Mac. You can choose the one that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you want a fast and easy solution, a free and online option, or a professional and powerful tool, we have got you covered. However, if you want the best VCD to MP4 converter, we recommend you to try HitPaw Univd, which can convert VCD DAT to MP4 high quality and fast speed, without any loss of data or quality. HitPaw Univd is the ultimate solution for all your video conversion needs.
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Daniel Walker
Editor-in-Chief
My passion lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday creativity. With years of hands-on experience, I create content that not only informs but inspires our audience to embrace digital tools confidently.
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