Most uploads work as they are, but sometimes a file stalls in processing, plays without sound or shows strange colours. Converting to a standard MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio fixes most of those problems.
This converter tries a lossless copy first and only re-encodes when it has to, so your quality is kept wherever possible.
Convert video for YouTube: what to know
Recommended settings
MP4 container, H.264 video, AAC audio, progressive scan and the original frame rate. The converter produces exactly that when it re-encodes.
Frame rate and resolution
Keep the frame rate you filmed at and upload the highest resolution you have. YouTube makes lower resolutions itself.
Before you upload
Check the clip with the video checker to see its resolution and whether YouTube will treat it as a Short or a standard video.
How to use
- Add your video. Drop a MOV, WebM, AVI, MKV, FLV or other video file into the tool.
- Choose a mode. Automatic tries a fast copy first. Choose always re-encode if you need the most compatible result.
- Convert. Press the button. A copy finishes in seconds, a re-encode takes about as long as a quarter to a full playing time depending on your device.
- Download the MP4. Preview it, then download. The original file is not changed.
Limits and good to know
- Files over about 500 MB can run out of browser memory on some devices.
- Re-encoding is slower than copying and uses more battery on a phone.
- A few rare codecs cannot be decoded in the browser. If a file fails, try another source file.
FAQ
Does YouTube re-encode my upload?
Yes. It makes its own versions at several resolutions, so there is no benefit in compressing heavily first.
Can I convert 4K?
Large files can be slow or run out of memory in a browser. For very large 4K files, a desktop editor is more reliable.
Is this converter free?
Yes. There is no limit, no account and no watermark.
Is my video uploaded?
No. It is converted in your browser.
Will it reduce quality?
Copy mode does not. Re-encoding at the high setting is very close to the original.