Use VLC media player as a video converter

VLC media player plays almost any type of media file, but you can also use it to easily convert videos to other formats like MP4, useful if you want to see the movies you've made on mobile devices.

The converter function of VLC, however, is hiding something, and in this tutorial, I'll show you how to make movies in a new format with VLC.

1. Convert from the Media menu

Click on the Media menu in VLC, and then click on Convert / Save.

2. Select video(s) to convert

Using the Add button, select one or more video files to be converted.

3. Select the file name for the converted video

In the Target file box, select the destination folder and the name for the new video file.

4. Select video format for the conversion

Under Profile, choose the target format from the list of formats.

The VLC media player easily converts videos into different formats such as MPEG, MP4, AVI, Divx, ASF, WMV, or DVD.

If you want videos for a specific device, there are also a number of optimized profiles with the optimal settings for resolution, framerate, and codec.

4. Advanced Settings (Optional)

By using the menu with the tools icon, you can change the settings for the destination format to adjust itself.

Here, you can choose the supported video and audio codecs and have access to all advanced options like bit rate, resolution, framerate, and audio quality.

With special filters, you can also change or optimize the video or audio track during the conversion process. For example, you can rotate recorded videos 90° or add a watermark or logo.

5. Conversion: Videos saved in the target format

Once you've chosen all the settings, click Start to begin the conversion. VLC media player saves the film in the desired format in the file folder you've selected. The time to complete the conversion depends on the video length, the settings you have chosen, and the speed of your PC.

With batch conversion, you can watch the progress in the timeline while you play a video.

So, as it turns out, VLC media player isn't only limited to video playback, and if you're looking to make the most of the program, try using it to convert videos too.