Convert an MP4 video to MOV, the QuickTime format, when a program, a template or a client specifically asks for a .mov file. If the video is in H.264, as almost every MP4 is, we only change the container: it takes seconds and the quality does not change. One video at a time, up to 100 MB, with no sign-up.
How to convert MP4 to MOV
- Select your MP4 video (up to 100 MB).
- Click “Convert to MOV”.
- Wait a few seconds while we prepare the MOV.
- Download the MOV.
Do you really need a MOV?
MP4 and MOV are close relatives: both are containers that can hold the same H.264 video and AAC sound. That is why iMovie, Final Cut Pro, QuickTime Player and Photos open MP4 files directly, and in most cases there is no need to convert anything.
Converting is worth it when the destination asks for MOV:
- A template, a plugin or an older editing program only lets you choose .mov files.
- A client, an agency or a platform requires delivery in MOV.
- A screen player or a kiosk only accepts QuickTime files.
What we do with your video
- H.264 video and AAC sound are copied into the MOV unchanged: instant and without any loss.
- Other codecs that an MP4 can contain (HEVC, VP9, AV1) are re-encoded to H.264, which every program opens. Very long videos have to be trimmed first.
- Only the first video track and the first audio track are kept, without subtitles or metadata.
Limitations
- It is not ProRes: the MOV contains H.264, not the editing codecs used in professional post-production. If your workflow requires ProRes, export it from your editing software.
- One video at a time, up to 100 MB. If it has to be re-encoded, it cannot be too long: the message tells you the limit.
- To go the other way, use MOV to MP4.
Frequently asked questions
Does the quality change when converting MP4 to MOV?
Not if the video is H.264, which is what almost every MP4 uses: the image and sound are copied without changes. Only videos in other codecs are re-encoded, with a very small loss.
Do I need to convert my MP4 to open it in iMovie or Final Cut?
Usually not: both open MP4 files with H.264 directly. Convert only if a specific program, template or client asks you for a .mov file.
Is the MOV in ProRes?
No. We keep the H.264 of the MP4, which is light and compatible. ProRes is an editing codec that produces much larger files and is exported from editing programs such as Final Cut Pro.
Will the MOV be larger than the MP4?
Practically the same, because the video and sound inside do not change. Only if the MP4 used another codec and had to be re-encoded can the size vary.