Digital video is one of the most popular and successful forms of marketing. 81% of businesses already use it and 90% of consumers say it helps them make purchasing decisions.
The need for video is undeniable, but so is the need to choose the right file type. Using the wrong one could lead to decreased quality or an unplayable video.
There are several types to choose from, but MOV and MP4 are two of the most common. They were developed years ago and now work on most devices and platforms.
Choosing between MOV or MP4 depends on what you prefer and what technology you have available. Switching from one to the other requires knowing how to perform file conversion.
Read our guide for a breakdown of these two file types and how to use a converter to switch between them.
Table of Contents
MOV
Knowing your file types is the first order of business when discussing file conversion. MOV and MP4 files are similar but contain different types of information, take up different amounts of memory, and distinguish themselves in other ways.
MOV was created by Apple for use with its QuickTime player. Other Apple devices such as the iPhone and iPad save videos in this format automatically.
Other apps and devices can now play MOV files as well. The main exception is if the file includes copy protection to keep it from being played by unauthorized users.
MOV files can contain video, audio, subtitles, timecodes, and more. They maintain a high level of quality, but the massive amount of information they can contain tends to take up a great deal of space and memory.
MP4
MP4 is one of the earliest video file types. Today, these files are supported by most devices. They can contain audio, video, still images, and/or text.
MP4 file sizes tend to be smaller than MOV files. They shrink the information within while maintaining quality.
MOV to MP4 File Conversion
There are several types of digital video files to choose from, and knowing them all helps you choose the best one for your needs. Knowing how to perform file conversion also ensures that you don’t get stuck with the wrong type.
The choice between MOV or MP4 depends on the preference of the videomaker, what codecs they want to use, what operating system they have, where they’re uploading it, and what their clients need.
Why You Need A Converter
YouTube accepts both MOV and MP4 files. This is also true of many other popular upload locations, such as Facebook or Instagram. Always check the file types accepted by the site and/or program you want to upload a video to.
If you want to change from one file type to the other, you’ll need a MOV to MP4 converter. There are several reasons you may need to do so.
MOV files have a higher failure rate than MP4 files. They don’t always play or upload properly and may have visuals but no sound. If you experience this, try converting the file to an MP4.
Clients or specific websites may only accept one file type. If this is the case, you’ll have to convert it to the one you need.
Types of Conversion
There are two major types of file conversion. Lossy conversion removes video information and, while this reduces file size, it can also lead to a loss of quality. Lossless conversion lets you lose no information to ensure your video is the same when you change its format.
Lossless conversion may lead to higher file sizes, but it also lets you enjoy higher-quality images and sound. Use file conversion software or websites that offer this type whenever possible.
Converter Options
There are two steps to take before completing the conversion process. First, save a backup of the original video file. Next, choose which type of converter you want to use.
You have several options for MOV to MP4 file conversion. They include switching file names, online converters, and dedicated file converting software.
Changing the file name from MOV to MP4 may help, but it doesn’t always work. You may still see your video maintaining the unwanted extension.
Not all programs work as file converters. You can’t use the QuickTime app on a Mac to convert MOV to MP4. In most cases, you’ll need a more reliable method.
Online file conversion is another method with its own pros and cons.
Advantages of these sites include:
- Quick file conversions
- No need to download an app
Disadvantages include:
- File size limitations
- Reliance on a stable internet connection
Online file conversion sites can help in a pinch. They’re especially helpful if you have a stable internet signal and are working with small files.
File conversion presents the risk of lowering the quality of your image and/or audio. The risk decreases when you choose the right file conversion software.
Cloud-based file converters like Cloudconvert allow for fast conversions. You can also use it to edit more than the file type. It lets you change settings like codec types, bitrates, and audio volume.
Permute is one of the best programs you can use to convert MOV to MP4. It makes it simple to perform lossless conversion on batches of video files.
These are only a few of the conversion options available today, and more will enter the market as technology evolves. Check here for more tips on how to convert MOV to MP4.
Where Can I Learn More?
Digital video can engage viewers on almost every platform. It’s one of the most effective marketing methods available today.
Deciding between MOV or MP4 depends on the project. Clients may need one or the other, or the place you want to upload your video to may only accept a specific type.
Understanding file conversion ensures you get the right file type without losing quality. File names and online file conversion sites are effective, but specialized software is more reliable.
Read the rest of our content and keep checking back for more tips on how to create the best possible videos.
