How to Convert MOV to MP4

This method is fast and does not change image or audio quality.

1. 1Install a trusted FFmpeg build for your operating system.
2. 2Open a terminal in the folder containing the MOV file.
3. 3Run the command below and wait for FFmpeg to inspect and copy the streams.
4. 4Open the resulting MP4 and test video, audio, duration, and seeking.
5. 5If FFmpeg reports an incompatible codec, use the re-encoding method instead.

ffmpeg -i input.mov -c copy -movflags +faststart output.mp4

H.264 video and AAC audio work across a wide range of browsers and devices.

1. 1Keep the original MOV as a master copy.
2. 2Run the command below with a new output filename.
3. 3Increase CRF for a smaller file or decrease it for higher quality.
4. 4Review motion, fine detail, audio sync, and rotated phone footage.
5. 5Use the MP4 only after the full duration plays correctly.

ffmpeg -i input.mov -c:v libx264 -crf 20 -preset medium -c:a aac -b:a 192k -movflags +faststart output.mp4

A CRF around 18–23 is a common starting range for H.264. The best value depends on the source and your quality target.

Choose an MP4/H.264 export preset and review the output settings before rendering.

1. 1Import the MOV into a trusted editor or media converter.
2. 2Match the source frame rate and resolution unless you intentionally want to change them.
3. 3Select MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio.
4. 4Enable web optimization or fast start when available.
5. 5Export to a new file and verify the result before removing the MOV.