You may have a video in MKV format that you want to play on an older phone or send through MMS. It is one of the top reasons to use an MKV to 3GP converter. The 3GP format was made for legacy devices and smaller file sizes, which also makes it easier to share through low storage or weak internet. You might also need 3GP when saving space on memory cards or keeping files lightweight for faster transfers.

With our MKV to 3GP converters here, you can quickly change your files without hassle. Let us take a closer look at the tools you can use!

Part 1: Best Free MKV to 3GP Converters

1. AVAide MKV Converter

Avaide MKV Converter Best Free MKV to 3gp Converter

First on our list is AVAide MKV Converter. This MKV to 3GP converter is free to use, and you can download it on your Windows or Mac computer without any hassle. Whether you are a first-timer or already know how to convert videos, AVAide MKV Converter is made for all skill levels. It is simple to use, yet powerful enough for professionals.

With AVAide MKV Converter, you can change MKV to 3GP in no time. This program even gives you two options: 3GP1 with H.263 encoder and 3GP2 with XVID encoder. It means you can choose what works best for your device.

Another good thing is that you can fine-tune the output. You are free to tailor the resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and more. It helps you match the video clarity to what you really need. If you want a smaller video file size, you can lower the settings. If you want a clearer quality, you can set them higher.

Key Features:

• Manage more than one file at the same time.

• Convert videos to higher resolutions for clearer playback.

• Trim parts of the video you do not need and keep only what matters.

• Improve the video clarity by upscaling the resolution, reducing noise, etc.

• Rotate, crop, add filters, place watermarks, put in subtitles, and do more edits before saving.

2. Any Video Converter

Any Video Converter Best Free MKV to 3gp Converter

Second on the list is Any Video Converter Free, a converter made for users who need their videos to play anywhere.

Some phones only work with 3GP, so Any Video Converter changes MP4 or MKV into that format with good speed and clarity. It is free, easy to use, and supports many devices like iPhone, iPad, Kindle Fire, PS4, HTC, and Samsung.

You can also download videos in bulk from YouTube and 100+ sites, then convert them into 3GP, AVI, MP3, or even burn them to DVD. Besides that, it works fast with CUDA acceleration and lets you fine-tune settings for the best output.

Key Features:

• Supports batch add and convert files.

• Extract audio and save as MP3 or WMA.

• Convert all video formats, including high-definition.

• Customize output settings based on your preference.

• Faster conversion speed with CUDA acceleration technology.

3. ConvertFiles

Convertfiles Best Free MKV to 3gp Converter

Third on the list is not a program you download but a website that works in your browser. ConvertFiles is a free online converter that changes MKV into 3GP without needing an installation. You upload a file, choose 3GP, and download the result once it is done. Free users can convert up to 250 megabytes, while premium accounts allow 1 gigabyte.

ConvertFiles is not just for video. You can also use it to convert images, documents, or audio. The site is safe because it uses SSL and deletes files after a short time. It is quick, secure, and works on any device.

Key Features:

• It supports more than 300 file formats.

• You do not need to sign up to use it for free.

• You can choose the output clarity and format.

• Files are auto-deleted after conversion for privacy.

• Converted files are ready for instant download or can be sent by email.

Part 2: How to Convert 3GP to MKV (Reverse Process)

Old phones and devices often used 3GP. But today, most modern players and screens work better with MKV. Converting 3GP to MKV helps you keep quality and makes your videos easier to play. Below are some free tools that can do this job!

1. MiniTool MovieMaker

Convertfiles Best Free MKV to 3gp Converter

If you want both editing and converting in one place, MiniTool MovieMaker is a good choice. It is free and lets you trim, crop, rotate, or apply filters before saving your video. You can upload a 3GP file, place it on the timeline, edit and then export it as MKV. The program supports many formats, so you can also use it to convert 3GP to MP4, MOV, and other popular formats. On top of that, it works well for beginners who want simple steps.

2. MConverter

Mconverter Convert 3gp To MKV

There is also an online option if you do not want to install a program just to convert 3GP to MKV. MConverter supports many video types, including 3GP and MKV. It works with Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive uploads. You can even convert folders and handle large files in bulk. The process is quick, and you can download your MKV video right after it is done. It is easy, private, and works on most devices.

Part 3: What You Lose in 3GP

The 3GP format was made for older phones with small screens and slow internet. While it worked fine back then, it cannot match today's video standards. If you use 3GP now, you will notice clear limits compared to formats like MKV or MP4. Here are the main things you lose:

• Resolution

3GP is locked to low quality, with a max of 480p. It was enough for tiny phone screens, but it looks blurry on bigger devices. Watching a 3GP file on a laptop or smart TV makes the lack of detail easy to see.

• Audio Quality

Most 3GP files only support mono or basic stereo sound. It means no deep bass or surround effect. Music or movies sound flat compared to formats that allow richer audio.

• Subtitles and Tracks

3GP cannot handle subtitles or multiple audio tracks. So, you cannot switch languages or add captions. It makes it harder to use for movies or videos where extra tracks are needed.

Tips for Better Results:

1. Always convert 3GP files into a stronger format like MKV or MP4.

2. Try upscaling tools that increase resolution when exporting.

3. Use a converter that allows noise reduction to clean up audio.

4. If subtitles are needed, add them after converting the video.

Conclusion

You now know the best MKV to 3GP converters, as we have mentioned all of them above. Indeed, there are many converters, but you can depend on AVAide MKV Converter if you want something free, safe, and packed with features. It works on Windows and Mac, can be used by any skill level, and even lets you tweak the output to match your needs. Why not give it a try and see how easy it is?

By Sylvie Hyde on Sep 12, 2025

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