You try to play an old video project, but instead of a memory, you get a file ending in .wlmp, and nothing happens. If that sounds familiar, you are dealing with a Windows Live Movie Maker project file, not a real video. While WLMP files hold the structure of your edits, they cannot be played or shared without conversion. The solution? Change the format.

In this guide, we will guide you on how to change the WLMP to MP4 using a range of methods, from built-in tools to free online options, so that you can watch, upload, or share your videos with ease and confidence.!

Part 1: What Is a WLMP File?

A WLMP is a project file created using Microsoft’s Windows Movie Maker, particularly the older versions known as Windows Live Movie Maker. Unlike standard video files, the WLMP format does not store the actual media content. Instead, it holds a blueprint of your project, which includes the sequence of clips, effects, transitions, and background music.

However, it only references the photos and videos used, meaning it cannot play on its own. To make it usable across devices and platforms, users often convert the WLMP format to MP4, turning the project into a proper video that can be watched, shared, or edited further.

Part 2: How to Alter WLMP to MP4 with Windows Movie Maker

If you still have access to Windows Movie Maker, you are in luck; this is the easiest way to convert WLMP to MP4 without needing extra tools. Since WLMP files are just project outlines, they must be exported properly to become usable videos. Here is how to do it step by step:

Windows Movie Maker Ui

Step 1Open your WLMP file in Windows Movie Maker. Go to File > Open Project and select the WLMP file you want to convert.

Step 2Click File > Save movie and choose your preferred export option. Select an environment that complements your device or platform, such as a computer, Android (1080p), or the iPhone.

Step 3Export video into MP4. Select a folder, name the file and click Save. The program will now change WLMP to MP4, making your project viewable and shareable on most devices.

Part 3: How to Change WLMP to MP4 Free Online Without Movie Maker

If you need to convert from WLMP to MP4 online but no longer have access to Windows Movie Maker, there are a few browser-based options that may help. While WLMP files are project files, not standalone videos, they can still be converted if all media content is present. Below are two tools that offer a simple way to handle online conversions.

1. CloudConvert

CloudConvert is a powerful and trusted file converter that works right in your browser. Although WLMP is not officially listed as a supported input, the platform can sometimes process WLMP files if they include all linked media. You only have to upload your project, select MP4 as the output format and select additional settings such as resolution or codec. CloudConvert is a reliable alternative for people seeking to change WLMP to MP4 online with better quality control.

Clou Convert

Step 1 Open the CloudConvert main website and click the Select File to upload the WLMP.

Step 2Now that the video has been uploaded, choose the output you want, but this time set it to MP4 and click Convert.

Step 3Once conversion is done, download the file.

2. Convertio

Convertio is another easy-to-use online tool that supports video conversions. While it does not guarantee WLMP compatibility, users who upload well-prepared project files with complete media sources may still get results. Convertio is best for those looking for a lightweight, no-install way to convert .wlmp to MP4 online without too many steps.

Convertio

Step 1Open a new tab to go to the official website of Convertio.

Step 2Hit the Choose File to upload the WLMP file that you want to convert, and set the format to MP4.

Step 3Tick the Convert button to start processing and click the Download button to save it.

Just remember: WLMP files only reference media, so missing content can cause the conversion to fail. For best results, export the file to MP4 using Movie Maker first. Then, use tools like CloudConvert or Convertio to refine it. You can also convert video with the HEVC video extension to improve playback and compression for high-quality MP4 files.

Part 4: How to Convert WLMP Videos to MP4 in the Best Quality

To get the optimal results on video output, particularly when you want greater resolutions or multimedia compression, it is desirable to use a professional application, such as AVAide Video Converter. After you have exported your WLMP project to an MP4 by working with Windows Movie Maker, you are ready to import that project to work on AVAide in order to improve its quality or format.

The converter accepts a broad variety of input formats and allows you to export using the HEVC codec to MP4 so that the file sizes are smaller, but the quality is better. You can also enhance your video with this 5K to 8K converter to 4K, 5K, or even 8K, and it can be watched on a large screen or high-end devices. Even better, it supports batch conversions and a set of basic editing options, ideal for removing, cropping, or altering any effects prior to export. Learn to convert a WLMP file to MP4 using the tutorial here:

Step 1Download the converter on your Windows or Mac by clicking the appropriate button that we have here. Install the converter after you unpack the downloaded file on your operating system. Launch it afterwards.

Step 2Tick the plus button, find the WLMP file, click it, and press Open to import the video file to the converter.

Add File to Video Converter

Step 3Set the format to MP4 by clicking the drop-down button and choosing the appropriate MP4 settings from the list.

Select Output Format

Step 4After that, click the Convert All button to start the conversion process and make the WLMP compatible with all devices and platforms.

Convert All Files
Conclusion

Playing with WLMP files may sound complicated at first; however, they are not videos. However, when equipped with the proper instruments, it is easy to transform them into shareable and playable formats. Whether you work with Windows Movie Maker, an online converter, or a specialized program such as AVAide Video Converter, there is a solution to suit your needs and abilities.

If you no longer have the original software, you can still convert a WLMP file to MP4 online for free using platforms like CloudConvert or Convertio, just make sure all your media files are intact. Ranging from simple patches to high-quality exports, now you have the options to make your projects visible anywhere.

By Sylvie Hyde on Jul 16, 2025

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