Format converter: 3 good alternatives
With the format converter you can convert audio and video files into different formats. The following three free alternatives offer a similar range of functions.
The format converter - there are alternatives
The format converter converts your audio and video files into most common formats. This is particularly useful for portable devices. Unfortunately, this software is not cheap: Depending on the range of functions, the program costs 10 to 150 euros. You can download a slimmed-down version of the format converter in our download area, but it has only a few functions.
- All the alternatives that we present here are available free of charge on CHIP Online.
- In the picture gallery we show you the most important functions of the programs.
3. Handbrake
Handbrake is one of the most popular free converter tools on the market. With the freeware you can convert video and audio files into numerous formats. The tool is available for all common systems: Windows (64 bit), Windows (32 bit), macOS and Linux.
- Handbrake offers you many setting options: For example, you can specify the container format, the codec, the image size, frame rate, sample rate and audio and video bit rate.
- Handbrake continues to be developed and regularly equipped with new functions. In this way, the developers ensure that the converter always supports the latest formats.
- In addition, there are many presets available that help you with the conversion and preselect the right format for iPhone, iPad, Android smartphones etc.
- Conclusion: Handbrake is a strong alternative to the format converter.
2. Freemake Video Converter
The Freemake Video Converter offers less functionality than the format converter or handbrake, but is easy to use.
- The Freemake Video Converter is easy to use thanks to its large and self-explanatory icons. You can simply drag and drop files into the program and then edit them.
- He has already preset the necessary video parameters for widely used devices from brands such as Sony, Samsung and Nokia.
- In various practical tips, we will also show you how to use Freemake to reduce MKV files, convert MKV to AVI or AVI to MPG.
- Unfortunately, you have to be careful with the installation: There the program offers you additional software, toolbars and adware that you do not need for Freemake. In the picture gallery you will find a small installation guide.
- Conclusion: Freemake is the optimal alternative to the format converter due to its clear handling for beginners and for widely used devices and formats. However, the installer should be used with caution.
1. XMedia Recode
The audio and video converter XMedia Recode offers the best combination of simple operation and range of functions:
- You don't even have to install the portable version of XMedia Recode. It can be started on any Windows computer from the USB stick.
- This converter offers presets for significantly more manufacturers and devices than Freemake.
- By the way, with XMedia Recode you can also create a video with multiple audio tracks.
- Conclusion: XMedia Recode is only almost as simple as Freemake and as extensive as Handbrake - but thanks to the optimal combination of usability and functionality, it is the ideal alternative to the format converter.
If you are not satisfied with any of the alternatives presented, you can also try Any Video Converter. As an example, we will show you in other practical tips how you can use this tool to convert MOV to AVI or MP4 to MKV.
Latest videos
When installing Freemake Video Converter, select "Custom installation" to avoid installing [[//praxistipps.chip.de/virus-oder-adware-was-ist-der-iffer_38644|Adware]].
In the following steps, remove the checkmarks from "TuneUp Utilities" and "Skype" if you are not interested. You can use both [[//www.chip.de/downloads/TuneUp-Utilities-2014_12993392.html|TuneUp]] and [[//www.chip.de/downloads/Skype_13010241.html|Skype]] Download at any time from CHIP Online.
The great thing about Freemake Video Converter is its intuitive handling: Drag and drop a video into it and then select the brand of the device on which you want to play the video.
If you now select the device types, the necessary parameters such as codec, resolution and frame rate are already preset.
In XMedia Recode you can also drag and drop the video files into the program. Now select one or more files. You can then select the manufacturer in the "Format" tab under "Profile" and then the device on which the video should run.
In XMedia Recode, settings for several videos can be saved in a job list using "Add job" and then all jobs can be converted to "Coding" with the push of a button.
In SUPER you select all parameters manually, then activate the videos you want to convert and start the conversion using "Encode". If you stop with the mouse on a menu item, tool tips will help you.
