How to Convert AVI to MP4 (A Beginner Guide)

By Daniel Smith Apr 03, 2025 Convert Video

Have you ever tried to open an AVI file only to find that it won’t play on your device? Or maybe you want to share a video, but it’s just too big or incompatible? If this sounds familiar, converting AVI to MP4 could be the solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to easily convert your AVI files into the more popular and versatile MP4 format with minimal hassle. Start reading and find more.

Convert AVI to MP4
GUIDE LIST
Part 1. AVI vs. MP4 - What’s the Difference?
Part 2. 3 Ways to Convert AVI to MP4
Part 3. FAQs About Converting AVI to MP4

Part 1. AVI vs. MP4 - What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the conversion process, let’s quickly cover what AVI and MP4 are and why you might want to switch from AVI to MP4 in the first place.

AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is an older video file format developed by Microsoft in 1992. It’s been around for a while and is known for its ability to store both audio and video data in one file. The problem? AVI files can get really large, and they aren’t as compatible across different devices and platforms.

On the other hand, MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) is a much more modern format that’s become the industry standard. MP4 files are smaller, easier to share, and compatible with just about every device or video player you can think of. Plus, MP4 supports higher-quality video and compression techniques that keep the video sharp while reducing the file size.

Here’s a brief comparison chart that shows the main differences between AVI and MP4:

Feature AVI MP4
File Size Large (higher quality, less compression) Smaller (better compression)
Compression Low (can be uncompressed or use outdated codecs) High (modern compression for smaller sizes)
Compatibility Limited across devices and platforms High compatibility (works everywhere!)
Video Quality It can be high but may not be optimized Excellent quality with efficient compression
Usage Older formats, professional use Streaming, social media, personal use
Speed Slower to upload or download Faster uploads/downloads due to smaller file size

Why Save in MP4 Format?

One of the biggest reasons to change from AVI to MP4 is because of how efficient MP4 files are. They take up less space while still keeping good video quality, which makes them perfect for streaming, sharing, and saving on your devices. Using MP4 means you can upload and download faster, have more room for your files, and enjoy a better viewing experience on different platforms.

Part 2. 3 Ways to Convert AVI to MP4

Now that you know the main differences, let’s dive into the exciting part: changing your AVI files to MP4. I’ll share three simple methods to do this with trustworthy software and online free tools.

1. ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate: Convert AVI to MP4 on Windows and Mac

If you’re looking for the best overall solution, ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is my top recommendation. I’ve personally used this tool, and I love how straightforward and fast it is. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, ArkThinker is perfect for converting AVI to MP4.

Features:

• Batch conversion enables you to convert multiple AVI files at once.

• Ultra-fast processing speed thanks to hardware acceleration.

• Keeps high-quality video while reducing file size.

• Works on both Windows and macOS.

Steps to convert AVI to MP4 with ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate

Step 1

First, download and install ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate on your computer. It’s easy to set up, and you’ll be ready to go in just a few minutes.

Launch the AVI format to MP4 converter and click the Add Files button to upload your AVI video. You can drag and drop multiple AVI files for batch processing.

Add AVI Files in Arkthinker
Step 2

Click the Output Format dropdown, and it will show all the video output formats by default. Here, you need to select MP4.

Select MP4 Output Format

You can also adjust video resolution or quality here if needed by clicking the gear button next to MP4.

Customize MP4 Parameters
Step 3

Click the Convert All button to begin changing your AVI files to MP4. In just a few moments, your converted MP4 files will be ready to go and stored on your computer local drive!

Convert AVI to MP4 in Arkthinker

Note: Before you start the conversion, you can use its merging feature to combine the AVI files into one file by ticking the box of Merge into one file.

Verdict:

I think ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is one of the quickest and most dependable converters available. The interface is really easy to use, and the output quality is consistently excellent. The cost is fair, plus they offer a free trial. If you're looking for a strong, all-in-one video converter, this AVI to MP4 converter is definitely the best choice.

2. HandBrake: Convert AVI to MP4 on Mac

For all the Mac users out there, HandBrake is a fantastic, free tool for converting AVI to MP4. It’s open-source, and while it’s a bit more advanced than some of the other tools, it’s still very effective.

Features:

• Completely free and open source.

• Supports a wide range of video formats.

• Allows customization of output settings (bitrate, resolution, etc.).

Steps to Convert AVI to MP4 on Mac:

Step 1

Go to the HandBrake website, download the Mac version, and install it. This software is also compatible with the Windows version. If you have a Windows computer, just install it with ease.

Open HandBrake, then click the Open Source button to load your AVI file.

Handbrake Add AVI Files
Step 2

Under the Format dropdown, choose MP4 as your output format.

Handbrake Select MP4

If you want to tweak video settings like resolution, bitrate, or codecs, you can do that here.

Step 3

Click the Start button to begin the conversion process. HandBrake will output an MP4 file that’s ready to use!

Handbrake Convert AVI to MP4

Verdict:

While HandBrake may take a little getting used to if you’re a beginner, it’s an excellent choice for users who want complete control over the conversion settings. Plus, this AVI to MP4 format converter is totally free, so you can’t beat that!

3. ArkThinker Online Video Converter: Convert AVI to MP4 for Free

If you don’t want to install any software, or if you just need a quick conversion, ArkThinker’s online converter, ArkThinker Free Video Converter Online, is a great option. It’s simple, fast, and totally free to use.

Features:

• No need to download anything, upload, or convert.

• Simple interface, making it perfect for beginners.

• Supports AVI to MP4 and other formats.

Steps to transfer AVI to MP4 online:

Step 1

Open your web browser and go to ArkThinker Free Video Converter Online.

You don’t need to sign up or download anything. Just click the Start Converting Video button, then choose the AVI file you want to convert from your computer.

Add File Online Arkthinker
Step 2

Once your AVI file is uploaded, you'll notice various format choices. Just click on the Video tab and pick MP4.

Select MP4 Output Arkthinker Online

You can change the video settings by clicking the gear icon next to the MP4 option if you want. This allows you to modify aspects like the video codec, resolution, frame rate, and so on.

Customize MP4 Output Online
Step 3

Once you complete your settings, click Convert to MP4 to start the conversion and save your new MP4 file.

AVI to MP4 Arkthinker Online

Verdict:

The online converter is super convenient and fast, especially if you just need to quickly convert one or two files. However, it might not be ideal for large batch conversions, as you can only upload one file at a time.

Part 3. FAQs About Converting AVI to MP4

Can I convert AVI to MP4 for free?

Yes! Both ArkThinker and HandBrake offer free options for converting AVI to MP4. ArkThinker even has a free trial version of its full software.

Does converting AVI to MP4 lose quality?

Not necessarily. Most converters, like ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate, allow you to adjust the settings to ensure you maintain the quality of the original video. Compression does happen, but it’s minimal and often unnoticeable.

What’s the fastest way to convert AVI to MP4?

Using a reliable tool like ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate or an online converter is usually the fastest method, as they’re designed for quick conversions with minimal setup.

How can I convert AVI to MP4 on Mac?

You can use HandBrake or the online ArkThinker tool. Both options are perfect for Mac users who need to convert AVI files to MP4.

Conclusion

Converting AVI to MP4 doesn’t have to be complicated! Whether you choose desktop software like ArkThinker or HandBrake or an online tool, the process is pretty straightforward. I love ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate for its speed and simplicity, but HandBrake is a great free option if you’re looking for more control. If you’re in a hurry and need a quick conversion, the ArkThinker online tool is the way to go.

Ready to get started? Download ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate today and convert your AVI files to MP4 in just a few clicks. Happy converting!


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