3 Ways to Convert MP4 to MOV

By Daniel Smith Mar 14, 2025 Convert Video

If you’ve ever found yourself needing to transform MP4 to MOV, you’re not alone. Maybe you’re editing a video on a Mac and need a compatible format, or perhaps you’re sharing a file with someone using QuickTime. Whatever the case, converting MP4 to MOV format doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In this guide, I’ll share three simple ways to convert MP4 to MOV with the best 3 tools for the job with step-by-step instructions to make it happen.

GUIDE LIST: 1.Why Convert MP4 to MOV?; 2.How to Convert MP4 to MOV Using ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate; 3.How to Use VLC to Convert MP4 Videos into MOV; 4.How to Convert MP4 to MOV in QuickTime; 5.FAQs

1. Why Convert MP4 to MOV?

The MP4 format is incredibly versatile and widely supported, but it’s not always the ideal choice. Here are a few reasons why you might need to convert MP4 to MOV:

• Compatibility with Apple Devices: MOV is the default format for Apple’s QuickTime Player and works seamlessly with macOS and iOS.

• Editing Requirements: Many professional video editing tools like Final Cut Pro work better with MOV files due to their higher quality.

• File Optimization: MOV files often support advanced features like alpha channels, making them suitable for animations and overlays.

Now that you know why converting MP4 to MOV is essential, let’s explore three practical methods to do it.

2. How to Convert MP4 to MOV Using ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate

ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is one of my go-to tools for video conversion, supporting over 1000 formats like MP4, MOV, MKV, AVI, WMV, WebM, FLV, and more. The simple design allows even beginners to easily find their way around and convert MP4 files to MOV. Moreover, if you have multiple MP4 files to handle, its batch conversion lets you complete that in one go. Besides, this MP4 to MOV converter includes editing tools, compression, and enhancement.

Here’s how to use ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate to change MP4 to MOV:

Step 1

First, head over to the following download buttons and free download the software. Once it’s downloaded, just follow the steps to install it on your computer’s super simple! When that’s done, open it up, and you’re good to go.

Free Download For Windows 7 or later Free Download For macOS 10.12 or later

Step 2

Now, it’s time to load your video files. Click the Add Files button and select your MP4 video.

Got a whole bunch? No problem. Pick the folder with all your videos, and it’ll import them all at once.

Step 3

Here’s the fun part. At the bottom-left corner, there’s a drop-down menu labeled Output Format. Choose MOV from the list for all your files.

Want to convert to something else, like WMV, AVI, or MKV? You can do that too! Just pick the format you need for each file-it’s super flexible.

Step 4

Once you’ve set the output format, click the big Convert All button. The software will handle everything, converting your MP4 files to MOV (or whatever format you choose). Sit back for a moment, and it’ll let you know when it’s all finished.

Verdict:

From my experience, ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is a powerful and reliable tool. It’s perfect for both casual and professional users. You can try it for free to see if it meets your needs. I’ve found it worth every penny for its speed and quality.

3.How to Use VLC to Convert MP4 Videos into MOV

VLC Media Player is like that one friend who's always got your back when it comes to anything video-related. Most people use it to play movies and videos, but what you might not know is that it can also work as a file converter. Yup, you can use VLC to convert your MP4 videos into MOV files, and the best part? It’s totally free and super easy to use! Whether you're doing this for a school project, a YouTube upload, or just to make your video compatible with some device, VLC’s got you covered. Let’s walk through the steps together!

Step 1

If you don’t already have VLC installed, download it from the official site (videolan.org) and install it. This free MP4 to MOV converter is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Once it’s ready, open it up.

Step 2

In the upper left corner of the VLC window, click on Media and then choose Convert/Save from the menu that appears.

Then, in the window that pops up, click Add to choose the MP4 video you want to convert. Once it’s loaded, hit Convert/Save at the bottom of the window.

Step 3

Under Profile, pick a setting that matches the MOV format.

Note: VLC doesn't directly list MOV as an option, but you can select Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4) and then tweak the settings to make it work.

Please stick with me; I’ll explain this part next!

Step 4

Next to the Profile dropdown, click on the little wrench icon (it’s for editing). In the Encapsulation tab, select MP4/MOV as the container format. Hit Save to lock in the settings.

Step 5

Under Destination, click Browse and pick the folder where you want your converted file to be saved. You can also name your new MOV file here.

To finish up, click the Start button to kick off the conversion. The time it takes will vary based on your video's size, so it could take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes.

Once VLC finishes, head over to the folder you chose earlier, and your shiny new MOV file should be there, ready to go!

VLC does not convert videos, but it can edit videos by trimming, rotating, and merging videos in VLC.

Verdict:

VLC is a great free tool for converting videos from MP4 to MOV, but it’s not as user-friendly as ArkThinker. The layout can feel a little awkward, and sometimes the quality of the output can vary. Still, if you want a free choice, it’s tough to find something better.

4. How to Convert MP4 to MOV in QuickTime on Mac

QuickTime is like the built-in superhero of media players on your Mac. It’s super easy to use, and besides just playing videos, it can also convert MP4 video that needs to MOV format (maybe for a specific project or app that only works with MOV); QuickTime can totally handle that without any extra software. Pretty cool, right? Here’s how you can make it happen:

Step 1

Start by finding your MP4 file. Right-click on it, then choose Open With and pick QuickTime Player. The video will pop up and start playing.

Step 2

With your video open, click File in the menu bar at the top of your screen. Then, select Export As from the dropdown menu. You’ll see a list of resolutions like 4K, 1080p, or 720p. Choose the one that matches what you need for your MOV file.

Step 3

A dialog box will appear, prompting you to save the file. You can change the name and select the location for saving it, such as on your Desktop or in a certain folder. Just ensure that the format is set to .mov, which should happen automatically.

If you want to export MP4 video in QuickTime, just refer to this article.

Step 4

Click Save, and QuickTime will start converting your file. This might take a minute or two, depending on the size of your video. Once it’s done, you’ll find your shiny new MOV file in the location you selected.

And that’s it! QuickTime makes this process super simple, and since it’s already on your Mac, you don’t have to download anything sketchy or complicated. Hope this helps!

Verdict:

QuickTime is perfect for Mac users who need a simple way to convert MP4 to MOV without additional downloads. It’s free and easy to use, but it’s not suitable for batch conversions or advanced settings.

5. FAQs

Can I use a free video converter for MP4 to MOV?

Yes, tools like VLC and QuickTime are excellent free options for converting MP4 to MOV.

How do I convert MOV to MP4 on Windows?

You can use ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate or VLC to easily convert MOV files to MP4 on Windows.

Is it possible to convert MOV to MP4 on Mac?

Yes, QuickTime and VLC both support converting MOV to MP4 on Mac.

What’s the best way to change MP4 to MOV on a Mac?

For simple conversions, QuickTime is the best choice. For more advanced needs, ArkThinker VCU is highly recommended.

Conclusion

Converting MP4 to MOV doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you choose ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate, VLC, or QuickTime, each tool has its unique strengths. For the best combination of quality, speed, and features, I recommend ArkThinker VCU.

Ready to make your video conversions a breeze? Download ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate today and experience the difference!

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