MP4 to MOV - How to Convert MP4 for Smooth Playback on Apple Devices

Video files can be hard to navigate. One video works well, and the other does not even want to open on a new gadget or within an editing program. The issue tends to be an incompatibility of styles. MP4 is compatible with almost every device, although Apple devices and programs such as Final Cut Pro are more convenient with MOV. That is why learning how to turn MP4 to MOV is so useful. This guide shows you simple ways to make the switch on Windows, Mac, iPhone, and online, so your videos play wherever you need them.

Part 1. MP4 vs MOV

When to Convert MP4 to MOV?

You should convert MP4 to MOV when you plan to edit videos in Final Cut Pro, iMovie, or other Apple software that runs smoother with MOV files. MOV is also a better choice if you want the highest possible quality for professional projects. On the other hand, if your goal is easy sharing, streaming, or saving space, MP4 is usually the smarter format to keep.

Part 2. Convert MP4 to MOV on Windows

1. AVAide Video Converter

AVAide Video Converter is one of the most reliable tools for handling format changes without sacrificing quality. It is designed with beginners in mind, yet it offers the power that advanced users need. The interface is clean, the process is quick, and it supports batch conversions to save time. With its strong balance of speed and high output quality, AVAide is the best choice if you want a smooth MP4 to MOV converter that works on any Windows setup.

Step 1Download the converter on your PC by clicking the download button that we have here. Then, follow the steps to install it and do the quick setup promptly.

Step 2Next, tick the Add Files button to import the MP4 file you have saved on your PC. In here, you can upload multiple MP4 files and convert them all into MOV with the desired settings simultaneously.

Step 3After uploading, click the dropdown button and under the Video, choose the MOV format and the settings you want to achieve, that is listed here.

Step 4Finally, click the Convert All button, and the processing will commence. Once you see it successfully, then the conversion is done and ready to be edited or saved on the Apple ecosystem.

2. Adobe Media Encoder

Adobe Media Encoder is a professional tool that is brilliant in the video production workflow. In case you already use Adobe software such as Premiere Pro, this program is compatible and allows you to control several files simultaneously. It provides deep export preferences, which is why it is very suitable for those who wish to have total control over formats and compression. While it requires a subscription, its deep integration makes it a strong option when you need to transform MP4 to MOV as part of a larger editing process.

Step 1Open Adobe Media Encoder on your Windows computer.

Step 2Import your MP4 files by clicking the + button in the queue panel or dragging the files directly into it.

Step 3In the Format dropdown menu, scroll through the list and select QuickTime as the output format.

Step 4Go to the Preset field and choose Match Source (Rewrap) to keep the same resolution, frame rate, and quality while changing only the container to MOV.

3. Shutter Encoder

Shutter Encoder is a free, open-source solution that appeals to users who prefer flexibility and customization. It supports a wide range of formats and comes with extra tools for trimming, compressing, and even handling subtitles. The interface is not as polished as paid alternatives, but it is powerful once you get used to it. For anyone looking for a lightweight tool that still gets the job done, Shutter Encoder is worth trying when you want to learn how to change MP4 to MOV without spending anything.

Step 1Open the Shutter Encoder on your Windows computer. Click Browse to locate and add your MP4 video to the program.

Step 2Next, click the Choose function menu. From the list, select Rewrap if you want to change only the container from MP4 to MOV while keeping the same codecs. You can also pick a different codec, such as H.265, if you need compression or advanced settings.

Step 3In the format dropdown, select .mov as your output option. Then click the Start function to begin converting.

Part 3. Convert MP4 to MOV on Mac

1. QuickTime

QuickTime is the built-in media tool for macOS, and it handles simple file conversions without extra downloads. It is perfect for quick edits and basic format changes. If you need an easy method for QuickTime MP4 to MOV, this is the most direct option.

Step 1Open your MP4 file in QuickTime Player.

Step 2In the top menu, click File > Export. Choose your desired resolution, for example, 1080p or 4K.

Step 3In the save dialog, set the format to .mov and pick your destination folder. Click Save to start the conversion. With that, you are able to solve the file isn't compatible with QuickTime.

2. Avidemux

Avidemux is a free, open-source program that gives you more control than QuickTime. It supports a wide scope of formats and codecs, making it useful if you want to trim, filter, or adjust your video before exporting. For those who need flexibility to convert MP4 to MOV on Mac, Avidemux is a reliable choice.

Step 1Launch Avidemux on your Mac and drag your MP4 file into the program.

Step 2In the Video Output and Audio Output areas, keep the settings as Copy if you do not want to re-encode.

Step 3Under the Output Format dropdown, select MOV Muxer. Click Save, then enter a file name ending with .mov. The program will quickly create your MOV file.

Part 4. Convert MP4 to MOV on iPhone

If you are wondering how to change a video from MP4 to MOV on iPhone, iMovie is one of the best free options, and you can also use it to make a movie on iMovie. Since it's an Apple-made app, you don't need to worry about compatibility issues. It allows you to import MP4 clips, edit them quickly, and export them as MOV files that play smoothly across Apple devices.

Step 1Launch the iMovie app on your device and tap Create Project.

Step 2Choose Movie and then select the MP4 file you want to convert. Tap Create Movie to import it into your project timeline.

Step 3Tap the Share button at the base of the screen once your video is ready. Select Save Video, and iMovie will automatically export your file as a MOV video.

Part 5. Convert MP4 to MOV Online

1. AVAide Free MOV Converter Online

If you want something quick and easy, AVAide Free MOV Converter Online is a great choice. It runs straight from your browser, so there's no need to install anything. Just upload your file, choose MOV as the output, and you're done. It's one of the most convenient MP4 to MOV converter free tools out there. Now, let's look at the simple steps you need to follow.

Step 1Find the official website of this Free MOV Converter Online and click the ADD YOUR FILES to upload the MP4 video.

Step 2Next, set the output to MOV format since that is the one you want to convert into.

Step 3Click the Convert to start transforming into MOV.

2. HappyScribe

HappyScribe may be known for transcription, but it also makes video conversion simple. With just a few clicks, you can upload an MP4 and transcode MP4 to MOV online without worrying about software setup. Everything happens in the cloud, so it works on any device. Here's how you can do it in a few easy steps.

Step 1Open the website and click Tools, and under the More Tools, choose the Tools to access the Video Converter. Hit the Select file to upload an MP4 video.

Step 2Click the dropdown and find the MOV to set it as an output.

Step 3Once done, click Convert.

By Sylvie Hyde on Oct 17, 2025