How to Change DAT File to MP4 to Fix Playback Issues

“I can’t play my DAT files on my multimedia player. Is there a chance to solve this problem? I hope that you can help me with this.”

Well, DAT files are commonly used for VCDs. It is a generic data file capable of storing text format or binary. Since various platforms don't support this format, it is really challenging to play the DAT file. Luckily, we can give you the best solution you can use. If you want to play your file without encountering any issues, the best thing to do is to transcode your DAT file to a more compatible format, like MP4. With that, you can experience a smooth video playback, no matter what platform you use. This post will give you numerous processes to convert your file to MP4 using the best converters. Thus, read this tutorial and learn all the processes to convert a DAT file to MP4 format.

Part 1. Reasons to Convert DAT File to MP4

There are various reasons why you need to transform your DAT file into MP4 format, such as:

For Better Compatibility

Nowadays, only a few platforms can open DAT files. With that, if you want to play your files on various media players, it would be best to convert them to MP4 since it is one of the most popular formats you can open to almost all platforms.

Smaller File Size

MP4 can offer a smaller file size, allowing you to load the video faster, and ideal for storing videos on your device.

Easy Editing

When editing a video, it is suggested that the video be edited in MP4 format. This is because the format is simple to access and playable for all editing software.

Future Proofing

The DAT file is outdated. To preserve your content, it would be best to use the MP4 format.

Part 2. How to Convert DAT to MP4 with the Best Quality

If you want to convert DAT to MP4 with the best quality, use AVAide Video Converter. This offline converter can perfectly transcode your files in just a second. Plus, you can even use the HEVC codec for the MP4 format. It can also offer you an ultra-fast conversion speed of up to 30× faster compared with other converters. Additionally, you can easily attach subtitles to the videos and upscale the file up to 8K. With that, you can tell that the software is powerful enough to achieve your desired result. To learn how to convert your DAT files to MP4, see the steps below.

Step 1Download AVAide Video Converter on your computer. After that, run the software to see its main user interface.

Step 2Go to the Converter section and tick the Add Files button to add the DAT file you want to convert.

Step 3From the Output Formats section, select the MP4 format. You can also pick/choose your preferred video quality.

Step 4Hit the Convert All option below to convert and save your final output.

Part 3. How to Convert DAT to MP4 Using Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player is capable of playing and running different media files. If you are looking for the best way to convert your DAT files to MP4 format, we can't recommend this software. It is because the software doesn't have a conversion feature that can help you get the desired result. Plus, if you want to play your DAT file, you have to rename it first to .mpg to have a smooth and effective video playback.

Part 4. How to Transform DAT to MP4 on VLC

You can also use VLC to convert your DAT file to MP4 effectively. It can also give you an easy process, making it suitable for all users. Plus, you can use some functions to edit the video. You can crop the video on VLC, add subtitles, adjust the brightness, and more. See the steps below using this DAT to MP4 converter.

Step 1After you launch the VLC Media Player, go to the Media section and proceed to the Convert / Save option.

Step 2Then, click Add to insert the DAT file you want to transcode. From the bottom interface, hit the Convert / Save option.

Step 3Navigate to the Profile section and select the MP4 format. Then, tick the Start button to begin the conversion process.

Part 5. Best Way to Transcode DAT to MP4 Using WinX Video Converter

You can also use the WinX Video Converter if you want to change the DAT file into MP4 format with a satisfying quality. It can even give you a straightforward UI, allowing you to navigate all the features until you get your preferred result. You can follow the instructions below to change DAT to MP4.

Step 1Download and install the WinX Video Converter. Then, click the Video button to add the DAT file.

Step 2Afterward, go to the Output Profile option to select the MP4 format.

Step 3Hit the Run button to start the DAT to MP4 conversion process. Once done, you can now play your video to your MP4 player and other media player.

Part 6. How to Change DAT File to MP4 on VideoProc

VideoProc is one of the programs that can convert and edit your video files effectively. With its conversion feature, you can create an MP4 file from your DAT file. It can also give you an understandable layout for simple navigation. You can also convert more files when using the software, such as MP4 to MOV, MP4 to AVI, MP4 to MKV, etc. The only drawback here is that it inserts a watermark into the video when using the free version. But still, if you want to convert DAT format to MP4, check the instructions below.

Step 1After you access the VideoProc, click the Video button to add the DAT file from your desktop.

Step 2Then, go to the Setting button to select the MP4 as your output format.

Step 3For the final conversion process, click the Run button from the bottom interface.

Part 7. How to Convert DAT File to MP4 Using Online-Convert

If you want to convert DAT to MP4 online for free, use Online-Convert. This web-based converter can give you the result you need after the conversion process. Plus, it can also give you a fast procedure, helping you to save more time. It can also let you adjust various parameters, such as frame rates, presets, width, height, and more.

Step 1After you access the Online-Convert on your browser, hit the Choose Files button to upload the DAT file.

Step 2After that, go to the Output section to choose the MP4 format.

Step 3Click the Start Conversion button to proceed to the DAT to MP4 conversion process.

Part 8. Comparison of the 6 Best DAT to MP4 Converters

If you want to get more insights about the best DAT to MP4 converters, see all the information from the comparison table below.

By Jane Pineda on Jun 04, 2025