DragoXStream Logo DragoXStream Get the app

How to Convert Any Video to MP4 with HandBrake (Free)

Published 7 October 2026 · All guides

If a video will not play on your phone, TV or in a browser, converting it to MP4 with H.264 video and AAC audio fixes the problem nearly every time. HandBrake is a free, open-source program for Windows, macOS and Linux that does exactly this, with no watermark and no account. Here is how to use it.

Before you start

  • Download HandBrake only from its official website, handbrake.fr. Copies offered elsewhere are a common way to spread malware — see our guide to spotting fake download buttons.
  • Converting needs a fair amount of computer time. A one-hour video can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour depending on your computer and settings.
  • Keep your original file. Every conversion loses a little quality, so you want the source if you need to convert again.

Step 1: Open the video

Launch HandBrake and choose Open Source, or drag your video onto the window. HandBrake scans the file and shows its duration, resolution and audio tracks.

Step 2: Pick a preset

On the right or at the top you will see a Preset list. The general presets are a good starting point:

  • Fast 1080p30 — good quality, reasonably quick, for most videos.
  • Fast 720p30 — smaller files, ideal for phones.
  • Very Fast 480p30 — smallest and quickest, for previews or slow connections.

Choose the preset that matches or is just below your source resolution. Picking a higher resolution than the original does not improve the picture.

Step 3: Check the format and codecs

  • Summary tab: set Format to MP4. Tick Web Optimized if you will play the file in a browser; it lets playback start before the whole file has downloaded.
  • Video tab: set Video Encoder to H.264 for maximum compatibility. Leave the frame rate as Same as source.
  • Audio tab: make sure the track is AAC. 160 kbit/s stereo is plenty for most videos.

Step 4: Set the quality

In the Video tab, leave Constant Quality selected. The number is called RF; lower means better quality and bigger files. Sensible values for H.264:

  • RF 18–20 — near-transparent quality, large files.
  • RF 21–23 — the sweet spot for most videos.
  • RF 24–27 — noticeably smaller, still fine on a phone.

Step 5: Subtitles (optional)

In the Subtitles tab you can keep subtitle tracks from the source or import an SRT file. Choose Burn In if the subtitles must always show, for example on a device that does not support subtitle tracks. Our subtitles guide explains the options.

Step 6: Choose where to save and start

At the bottom, set the file name and folder under Save As, making sure the name ends in .mp4. Click Start Encode. A progress bar shows the time remaining. When it finishes, open the new file to check it plays as expected.

Converting several files at once

Set up the first file, then choose Add to Queue instead of Start. Repeat for each file, then start the queue and let HandBrake work through them all, for example overnight.

Common problems

  • The file is bigger than the original. Your RF is too low for the source. Raise it by 2–3 and try again.
  • Audio is missing. Check the Audio tab: the right source track must be selected.
  • The picture looks squashed. In the Dimensions tab, keep Anamorphic on Automatic and the aspect ratio locked.