Sometimes you need to convert MOV files to MP4 files. This guide teaches you how to convert MOV to MP4 on Mac computers.
Did you know that Apple has over 100 million Mac users across the world?
If you too have a Mac, most of your videos might be using the MOV format. This is because Apple still relies on QuickTime Player. But if you must share these videos to users with no means of supporting MOV files, a MOV to MP4 conversion is an option.
Don’t feel distressed with the conversion process!
With this guide, you’ll learn how to convert MOV to MP4 on Mac computers. That way, it’s more versatile across various devices, including those running on Windows. Read on and find out more:
Convert Using iMovie in the macOS
Regardless of your version of the macOS, the methods involved in how to change MOV to MP4 is relatively easy. Whether it’s the macOS Catalina or something older, you can use the built-in iMovie tool to accomplish this task. Here are the steps:
-
Launch the iMovie App
The iMovie app is Apple’s proprietary video-editing software that comes when you buy your Mac. If you either lost or deleted this app, you can download it from the Apple App Store here. In regular situations, you’ll find the app in your Dock, but you can also find it using the Finder.
Click on the Finder icon and pick the Applications option located in the left-hand pane. From the resulting list, you’ll find the iMovie app. Click it to launch the software.
Once it’s open, look at the application toolbar and click on the File menu. As the dropdown menu appears, look for the New Movie option and select it.
-
Pick the File You Want
Opening a new project, you’ll see a large arrow icon pointing downward with the Import Media text underneath it. Click that button to open the media browser. Here, you’ll find the file you want to convert.
After finding the appropriate file, click the button located in the bottom-right corner of the window that says Import Selected.
-
Export the File
With the right file already imported, click on it to make a yellow border appear around it. After that, click the File menu once more. This time, pick the Share option from the dropdown menu then select File.
This will let you adjust some export settings. Do your appropriate adjustments and click on Next.
Another message box will open, enabling you to enter the appropriate file name and its save location. If you’re satisfied with the settings, click the Save button.
You’ll see a small circle located in the top-right corner of the iMovie app. This is the file’s export progress, and you’ll get a notification once it concludes. With this, you converted your MOV file into an MP4 file.
What to Do If iMovie Doesn’t Work on Mac
If these steps won’t work, you might be experiencing some problems with the iMovie app. If you have no other choice but to use this software, here are some troubleshooting steps you can do:
-
Restart Your Mac and Reset NVRAM
Sometimes, newly-installed iMovie apps won’t work if you don’t restart your Mac. In this case, simply restart your Mac by choosing it from the Apple menu. You could also reset the NVRAM if you’re using a camera or some other external device with iMovie.
Before resetting, disconnect all your external devices, except your keyboard and mouse. After the reset, check iMovie and try reproducing the issue. If it works, reconnect devices until the issue appears and restart your Mac if needed.
-
Update macOS and iMovie
If iMovie doesn’t work, it’s most likely an issue with your device’s firmware. Your device might also need servicing. To start the update, check out the App Store and check for Updates. Here, you’ll see whether an iMovie update is available for download.
You can also read this guide if you want more tips to convert MOV to MP4 using the Mac.
Convert Using a Third-Party Web-Based Converter
MOV files are also easily convertible if you’re using an online converter. For this guide, we’ll use CloudConvert, an online service made to convert a wide selection of file formats with no problems. Here are the steps:
-
Go to the CloudConvert Website
Once you’re there, press the red Select File button near the page top. This opens the pop-up window that allows you to pick the MOV file you want to convert. Select that file and click the Open button in the bottom-right corner of the window.
-
Convert the File
On the ensuing page, pick MP4 from the list of options presented. After that, press the Convert button located on the right-hand side of the screen. Take note, depending on the file size and your internet speed, the conversion process can take a while.
Once finished, a green Download button will appear near the page top. Click that button to open another pop-up window where you can choose the save location of the converted video. Press the Save button to download the new MP4 video and enjoy it.
What are the Differences Between MOV and MP4?
The primary difference between the formats is that the former is Apple’s proprietary file format used for QuickTime. Meanwhile, the latter is an international standard. With a Mac, you can interchange between formats, meaning you can play them without hassle.
Also, MP4 files often have higher compression rates, meaning their file size is much smaller. But MOV files will have higher video quality because of their size. You’ll also have a better time editing MOV videos with iMovies since it works best with Apple QuickTime.
The good news is that most online video sharing platforms support both formats. For example, YouTube and Vimeo support these formats and more.
Learn How to Convert MOV to MP4 on Mac Today!
These are the steps on how to convert MOV to MP4 on Mac. Use these to ensure that your conversion process goes through smoothly. Now you can enjoy your favorite video files in the format you prefer!
Did this step-by-step guide help you convert your MOV file? If so, read our other posts and learn more Mac-related tips today!
