How to Convert MOV to MKV Easily Using Free and Paid Software Options

You are trying to play or edit a video, and the question of MOV vs MKV suddenly becomes important. Maybe the MOV file from your iPhone won't open on your smart TV, or it's too large for storage or sharing. In many real-world cases like these, you might wonder, Why convert MOV to MKV? The answer lies in MKV's broader compatibility, subtitle support, and flexibility for streaming and editing. This guide breaks down the key differences between the formats, shows you the best free tools for conversion, and helps you solve common problems like audio sync and quality loss.

Part 1. MOV vs MKV

MOV and MKV are two widely used video formats, each with its strengths. MOV is preferred for Apple devices, while MKV offers broader support and flexibility.

Part 2. Best Free Conversion Methods

There are reliable tools for converting MKV to other formats. While some tools are only free and open source, others have a simple UI but contain advanced features. One of the highly powered, easy, and rich functional tools is AVAide MKV Converter.

1. AVAide MKV Converter

Similar to other professional converters, AVAide MKV Converter provides extensive format options for MKV file conversion. It does offer some features not found in other free converters, like batching, giving higher speeds, more in-depth software tools, and advanced editing tools. Extracting audio is seamless. MKV to MP4, MOV, AVI, and even 4K video conversion is effortless. AVAide ensures the processing is smooth and the quality is top-notch.

Step 1Download and Install

Download and install AVAide MKV Converter on your personal computer.

Step 2MKV Files Importing

The Add Files button is visible after launching the program. One can click and select the MOV video files to be imported.

Step 3Selecting The Final Format

Based on the select list, you can click the Output Format, then select MKV under the Video tab.

Step 4Optional Final Steps

To enhance their video pre-conversion, users can click on the Edit option to rotate, trim and crop the video to their liking.

Step 5MKV Files Conversion

Users can now click on the button Convert All, and MKV files can be effortlessly converted.

Step 6Locate the Output Files

Wait a few seconds for the process to complete. Your converted files will be saved in the output folder you specified.

2. VLC Media Player

VLC serves as a media player, and it can perform basic video conversion functions as well. It has a fair amount of both in and out formats, including MKV to MP4 or even MKV to AVI. VLC operates on a wide variety of systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, and can work with a lot of media files with little configuration.

Step 1Launch VLC, then click Media > Convert/Save.

Step 2Click Add and locate your MKV file.

Step 3Click Convert/Save and select MKV from the dropdown, and save the file with a new name.

Step 4Click Start to commence the conversion.

3. HandBrake

HandBrake serves MKV and MP4 users excellently, as it has the features of a professional open-source video transcoder. The control it gives to users on video sharpness, dimensions, and other features, such as audio and encoding, is beyond. Windows, macOS, and Linux users can rely on HandBrake to get the best of a free product.

Step 1Visit the official site to download and install HandBrake.

Step 2Launch the application, then drag your MKV file into the app window.

Step 3Select one of the available preset options, or edit video and audio parameters to your preference.

Step 4As the last step, choose the folder where the exported file will be saved. Select MKV as the format.

Step 5Click Start Encode to begin the conversion process.

4. Permute (macOS only)

Permute is an appealing MKV converter developed for macOS users. Though it is a paid application, a trial version is available. Its reputation for a straightforward interface and usability, as well as drag-and-drop support, makes it popular. This is a good converter for users who want light and simple utilities and lack intricate configurations.

Step 1Download Permute from the official website and open the application.

Step 2To load the MKV file, drag it into the main window of Permute.

Step 3Choose the output format from the format menu, for example, select MKV.

Step 4To automatically convert the file, hit the Start button after you are done selecting the options.

5. FFmpeg

FFmpeg is an advanced tool for video and audio files that is command-line operated. Its broad format support, small memory footprint, and quick processing make it ideal for users who need advanced tools.

Step 1Download and install FFmpeg.

Step 2Start Command Prompt for Windows and Terminal for Mac/Linux systems.

Step 3Input the command:

ffmpeg -i input.mkv output.mp4

And replace the placeholders accordingly.

Step 4Hit the Enter button and await the conversion.

Part 3. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with top converting tools, mkv file conversion may have some issues with quality or output. Here's a guide on how to remedy them:

1. Issues with Audio Sync

In cases where audio syncs incorrectly with video, enhancement tools such as audio delay can correct this on AVAide MKV. Another option would be to convert with VLC using its sync tools to adjust and correct delays prior to reconverting.

2. Failed Conversions of a File

A broken file, a file containing an unsupported codec, or obsolete software may be some of the reasons for the error. Always ensure the MKV file is fully functional prior to converting. It is recommended first to check the file playback, and then to convert using HandBrake, or update the converter prior to using it, especially when handling tasks like MOV to WEBM conversion for better compatibility.

3. Fixes for Quality Loss

In order not to lose video quality, it is recommended to use presets, adjust the bit rate, and modify the resolution manually. For AVAide MKV converter, the output can be 1080p or 4K, and with the use of hardware acceleration to maintain high-quality output without losing precision.

By Sylvie Hyde on Aug 19, 2025