Are you tired of dealing with MKV files that won’t play on your Android device? Do you wish there was a way to convert them to MP4, a more compatible format? Well, you’re in luck! VLC, a popular media player, can indeed convert MKV to MP4 on Android. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of this process, and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Why Convert MKV to MP4?
Before we dive into the conversion process, let’s understand why you might need to convert MKV to MP4 in the first place.
MKV (Matroska Video) is a container format that’s popular among video enthusiasts, as it can store multiple video and audio tracks, subtitles, and metadata. However, this versatility comes at a cost – MKV files may not be compatible with all devices or media players, including some Android devices. MP4 (MPEG-4), on the other hand, is a more widely supported format that’s compatible with most devices, making it a great choice for playback on Android.
Why Use VLC for Conversion?
VLC (VideoLAN Client) is a free, open-source media player that’s available on multiple platforms, including Android. One of VLC’s most useful features is its ability to convert video files between different formats. Using VLC for conversion has several advantages:
- VLC is free and open-source, making it a cost-effective solution.
- VLC is widely available on multiple platforms, including Android.
- VLC supports a wide range of video and audio codecs, including H.264, H.265, AAC, and MP3.
Converting MKV to MP4 on Android using VLC
Now that we’ve established why you might need to convert MKV to MP4, and why VLC is a great choice for this task, let’s get started with the conversion process.
Step 1: Download and Install VLC on Your Android Device
If you haven’t already, download and install VLC from the Google Play Store. Once installed, launch the app and ensure that you have the latest version.
Step 2: Add the MKV File to VLC
Open VLC and tap the “Media” button in the top-left corner. Select “Internal Storage” or “SD Card” depending on where your MKV file is located. Navigate to the folder where your MKV file is stored, and select it. VLC will begin to parse the file and display its metadata.
Step 3: Convert the MKV File to MP4
Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select “Convert.” In the “Convert” window, select “Video” as the output type and choose MP4 from the list of available formats. You can also customize the conversion settings, such as video and audio codec, resolution, and bitrate.
Step 4: Start the Conversion Process
Tap the “Convert” button to begin the conversion process. Depending on the file size and your device’s processing power, this may take several minutes or even hours. You can monitor the conversion progress in the VLC app.
Step 5: Play Your Converted MP4 File
Once the conversion is complete, you can find the converted MP4 file in the VLC app’s “Media” section. You can play it directly in VLC or transfer it to another device or media player.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when converting MKV to MP4 on Android using VLC:
Choose the Right Conversion Settings
When customizing the conversion settings, make sure to choose the right video and audio codecs for your needs. For example, if you want to ensure compatibility with most devices, choose H.264 for video and AAC for audio.
Monitor the Conversion Process
Keep an eye on the conversion progress and adjust the settings as needed. If the conversion process is taking too long, you may want to reduce the video quality or adjust the bitrate.
Test the Converted File
After conversion, test the MP4 file to ensure it plays correctly and has the desired quality.
Alternatives to VLC for Converting MKV to MP4 on Android
While VLC is a great tool for converting MKV to MP4 on Android, it’s not the only option. Here are some alternative apps you can consider:
- Media Converter: A dedicated video converter app that supports a wide range of formats, including MKV and MP4.
- FFmpeg Converter: A command-line based converter that’s highly customizable and powerful, but requires technical expertise.
Conclusion
Converting MKV to MP4 on Android using VLC is a straightforward process that requires minimal technical expertise. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily convert your MKV files to MP4, making them compatible with a wider range of devices and media players. Remember to customize the conversion settings to suit your needs, and test the converted file to ensure it meets your expectations. Happy converting!
Is VLC Media Player on Android capable of converting MKV files to MP4?
VLC Media Player on Android is primarily a media player, not a converter. While it can play various file formats, including MKV and MP4, it is not designed to convert files from one format to another. However, there are some workarounds that can help achieve the conversion, which we’ll discuss in this guide.
That being said, VLC Media Player on Android does have some limited transcoding capabilities, which can be used to convert certain file formats. However, this feature is not accessible through the app’s user interface and requires some technical knowledge to use. For most users, it’s recommended to use a dedicated video converter app for Android instead.
Why would I want to convert MKV files to MP4 on my Android device?
There are several reasons why you might want to convert MKV files to MP4 on your Android device. One common reason is that MKV files may not be compatible with certain devices or media players, while MP4 is a more widely supported format. Additionally, MP4 files are often smaller in size than MKV files, making them easier to store and share.
Converting MKV files to MP4 can also help resolve issues with video playback on Android devices. Some Android devices may struggle to play MKV files, leading to choppy or laggy playback. By converting the files to MP4, you can ensure smoother playback and a better viewing experience.
Are there any other Android apps that can convert MKV to MP4?
Yes, there are several other Android apps that can convert MKV files to MP4. Some popular options include Video Converter, Converter Video, and Media Converter. These apps are specifically designed for video conversion and often offer more features and options than VLC Media Player.
When choosing a video converter app, look for one that supports the input and output file formats you need, and has a user-friendly interface. Some apps may also offer additional features, such as video editing or compression, which can be useful depending on your needs.
How do I select the right output settings for converting MKV to MP4 on Android?
When converting MKV files to MP4 on Android, it’s important to select the right output settings to ensure that the converted file meets your needs. This may include choosing the desired video and audio codecs, resolution, bitrate, and file size.
To select the right output settings, consider the intended use of the converted file. For example, if you plan to watch the video on a high-end TV, you may want to choose a higher resolution and bitrate for better image quality. On the other hand, if you need to share the file online, you may want to choose a lower resolution and bitrate to reduce the file size.
Can I convert multiple MKV files to MP4 at once on Android?
Some Android video converter apps, including VLC Media Player, allow you to convert multiple files at once. This can save time and effort if you need to convert a large batch of files.
To convert multiple files at once, look for an app that offers batch conversion capabilities. Typically, you’ll need to select the files you want to convert, choose the output settings, and then start the conversion process. The app will then convert each file in turn, saving you the hassle of converting each file individually.
How long does it take to convert MKV files to MP4 on Android?
The time it takes to convert MKV files to MP4 on Android depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of the input files, the processing power of your device, and the output settings you choose.
In general, converting smaller files with lower resolution and bitrate will be faster than converting larger files with higher resolution and bitrate. Additionally, devices with more powerful processors will tend to convert files faster than devices with less powerful processors.
Are there any quality loss or compression issues when converting MKV to MP4 on Android?
When converting MKV files to MP4 on Android, you may experience some quality loss or compression issues, depending on the output settings you choose. This is because video conversion involves recompressing the video data, which can lead to a loss of detail and image quality.
To minimize quality loss and compression issues, it’s important to choose the right output settings for your needs. If you need to maintain high image quality, choose a higher bitrate and resolution. On the other hand, if you need to reduce the file size, you may need to accept some loss of quality.