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Key Points

  • Understanding how to convert AVI to MP4 is a useful skill to learn in case you receive a file that is unreadable by your device.
  • VLC Media player is a useful tool for converting files, and it is free.
  • There is no file size limit to VLC, and it is useful for formating many other kinds of files.

Have you ever received a file with a format that is either unreadable by your computer or does not work for a presentation? Then, you might want to check the file type. The most universally accepted file format is MP4. In this guide, we show you the best method to convert your video file from AVI to MP4.

Using VLC Media Player

A free media player, VLC plays most media files and is compatible with various formats. This tool might look a little bit old, but it gets the job done. Unlike the web converter option, files have no size limit. You can convert any file.

Step 1: Download VLC Media Player

Navigate to the website videolan.org in your web browser. This will greet you with a blue download option. Most of the time, the browser automatically recognizes your OS, but if not, you can click on the downward-facing arrow and select the appropriate OS.

Step 2: Open VLC and Select Media

Now that you have VLC downloaded Open it up and select Media from the top menu bar. From the drop-down menu, you will choose Convert/Save.

Step 3: Add The AVI File

After selecting Convert/Save, you will see a small window pop up. In that window, click on Add. This will bring up a file explorer window; find the file you want to convert and select Open in the bottom right corner. After uploading the file, click on Convert/Save at the bottom of that smaller window.

Step 4: Select .H264

A new window will appear on your screen now. Although there are many options on this screen, all you have to change is the Profile and Destination file. We want to change the Profile to Video – .H264 + MP3 (MP4).

The Destination file will determine where the converted file is saved on your computer. Next, click on Browse and select the folder you want to save the file.

Step 5: Start Conversion

Now that you have the Profile and Destination file determined, all that’s left is to start the conversion. To do this, select Start in the bottom right of this window.

Congratulations, you have converted your AVI video to MP4! Keep in mind that this also works for any other video format you may come across. VLC is a very robust tool, so don’t be afraid to try new things with it.

NEXT UP…

How To Convert AVI to MP4 in 5 Easy Steps FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Can VLC player convert MP4 to AVI?

Using VLC media player, you can very quickly convert your MP4 to AVI. In addition, VLC enables you to easily convert media files to other formats for personal use, regardless of the file size.

Is AVI better than MP4?

AVI does allow for better quality video, but for most sharing and uploading purposes, MP4 is better.

How long does it take to convert MP4 to AVI?

Typically it takes a 1/3 of the runtime of your video. So if your video is 15 minutes long, it will take 5 minutes to convert.

What is the best format to export video?

We usually recommend exporting videos in MP4 format. Unless you are exporting to a DVD, but that is a whole other conversation.

Is it better to save as MP4 or MOV?

Most streaming platforms recommend using MP4 files instead of MOV since MP4 files work with more streaming protocols. In addition, MP4 is typically more compressed and smaller, while MOV files are often higher in quality and larger in size.

About the Author

Marc Storch

Marc Storch is a writer based in the U.S. He usually covers GPUs, video games, entertainment, personal tech, and science fiction. Outside of writing, Marc spends his time working on film projects and lounging in the sun with his cat and partner.

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  • Wondershare Available here: https://videoconverter.wondershare.com/convert-avi/convert-mp4-to-avi-vlc.html
  • Video LAN Available here: https://www.videolan.org/
  • Veed Available here: https://www.veed.io/convert/mp4-to-avi
  • ZamZar Available here: https://www.zamzar.com/convert/mp4-to-avi/
  • Movavi Available here: https://www.movavi.com/support/how-to/how-to-convert-mp4-to-avi.html