Ultimate Guide to Convert DivX to MKV on Windows & Mac

A DivX file is a compressed video format that keeps good quality while saving space, which makes it popular for sharing online. It works on most platforms like Windows, Mac, and Linux. But if you want more features such as multiple audio tracks, subtitles, and better support for movies, it is best to convert DivX to MKV. This guide will show you how to do it easily!

Part 1: DivX vs MKV: Key Differences (And Why Convert)

When you watch or share videos, the file type matters. Some formats are older and less flexible. Others are newer and support more features. DivX and MKV are two names people often see. They are not the same, and knowing the difference helps you decide when and why to convert.

Key Differences Between DivX and MKV

• MKV is a video container. It can hold video, audio, subtitles, and even chapters in one file. It is flexible and works on modern players and streaming apps. MKV is not tied to one codec. You can put different video and audio formats inside. That makes it more future-proof than DivX.

Why Convert DivX to MKV

There are clear reasons to switch from DivX to MKV.

1. Compatibility - MKV plays on more modern devices, apps, and smart TVs. DivX is often limited to older DVD players or PCs.

2. Features - MKV supports multiple audio tracks and subtitles. DivX does not handle these well.

3. Quality - MKV can keep higher video and audio quality while still being smaller if paired with modern codecs like H.264 or H.265.

4. Future use - DivX is slowly fading, while MKV is still supported today.

In short, converting DivX to MKV makes your videos easier to play, keeps more features, and works better in the long run.

Part 2: 3 Ways to Convert DivX to MKV (Without Losing Quality)

1. AVAide MKV Converter

Step 1First, download and install AVAide MKV Converter from its official site. Once the installation is done, open the program to start converting.

Step 2On the main interface, press the Add Files button. It will let you upload your DivX video to the converter. Locate your DivX file, select it, and then click Open to add it to the program.

Step 3Next, click the Format drop-down menu, and under the Video tab, choose MKV as your output format.

Step 4Finally, click the Convert All button to start. The program will process your file and save it in MKV format. The whole process is fast, and your video quality stays the same. Check it out now in your computer folder!

2. MKVToolNix

When you want to keep video clarity the same, remuxing is the answer. MKVToolNix can help you convert DivX to MKV for free, and it does this well through its mkvmerge feature. No quality is lost, and the process is quick. It is perfect when your DivX file is inside an AVI and you just need a modern container.

Step 1Download and install MKVToolNix from its primary website.

Step 2Open the program and launch the MKVToolNix GUI (mkvmerge GUI).

Step 3Add your DivX AVI file by dragging it into the Source files section or clicking Add source files to browse.

Step 4Check the track selection. Make sure the video and audio you want are selected. You can also add or remove subtitles here.

Step 5Step 5. Go to the Output file section and type in the name and location of your new MKV file. After that, click Start multiplexing. The program will then remux your file into MKV without re-encoding. It keeps the original quality!

3. FFmpeg

Step 1Install FFmpeg and make sure it runs from your command line or terminal.

Step 2Open your terminal or command prompt. Type the command below, replacing the names with your file paths:

ffmpeg -i input.divx -c copy output.mkv

Step 3Press enter, and FFmpeg will copy the video and audio streams into an MKV container.

Step 4Please wait for the process to finish. Since it does not re-encode, it is fast and keeps the same quality.

It can be annoying when a DivX MKV does not play. The video may show no picture, no sound, or not open at all. It usually happens because of codec issues, outdated players, or bad file support. Luckily, there are clear ways to fix it.

1. Check Your Media Player

Some players cannot handle MKV with DivX inside. Try VLC Media Player or MPC-HC. These support many codecs without needing extras. Updating your player also helps because new versions fix old playback problems.

2. Install Codec Packs (For Windows)

If your player is basic, it may lack the DivX codec. Installing a trusted codec pack like K-Lite Codec Pack can solve this. But be careful, only download from the official site to avoid malware.

3. Convert the File

If playback still fails, convert the file to a more modern format. Use FFmpeg or tools like HandBrake. Converting DivX video to H.264 or H.265 inside MKV makes it easier for most devices to play. This step takes longer but works when nothing else does.

4. Check for Corrupt Files

Sometimes the MKV itself is damaged. If the file came from a download, try downloading again. A broken header or missing data will stop it from playing, no matter the player.

Part 4: What If You Want to Convert MKV to DivX

You may need to play videos on older devices that do not support MKV. That is where DivX Converter comes in; it can help you convert MKV to DivX. This official tool from DivX can take MKV files and re-encode them into the DivX format. It is simple to use, supports batch conversion, and offers presets for DVDs, TVs, and older media players.

Step 1Get DivX Converter from its primary website.

Step 2Run the program and navigate to the Converter tab. You can select and drop your MKV file or click the Add File button.

Step 3Once your MKV file is loaded, proceed to select a DivX-compatible profile from the available options. It may include a generic DivX profile or a specific profile optimized for a DivX Certified device if you have one.

Step 4Next, choose the folder on your computer where you want the converted DivX file to be saved. After that, click the Convert All button to initiate the conversion process. Once the conversion is complete, the DivX file will be available in the designated file folder.

By Sylvie Hyde on Sep 12, 2025