Have you ever downloaded a video and your player tells you that the format is not supported? 😫
Or maybe you recorded an audio and you need to transform it to MP3 because it takes up too much space.
That's where VLC Media Playerthat free program that you probably already have installed and that, besides reproducing almost everything, hides a fantastic function: convert multimedia files effortlessly.
Get ready, because in this article you will find out how to use VLC as if it were a professional converter.
Why use VLC as a converter? 🤔
The great thing about VLC is that you don't need to download anything else.
Many users resort to paid programs or suspicious websites to convert videos and audios.
But the truth is that VLC already has this function integratedIt does so quickly, securely and free of charge.
In addition, it supports an endless list of popular formats such as MP4, AVI, MKV, MP3, FLAC, WAV, OGG and more.
In short, it is a multimedia Swiss Army Knife.
Steps to convert a file in VLC 🖥️
Here is the easiest way to do it.
1. Open VLC
Start the VLC Media Player program.
If you still don't have it, download it for free from its official website 👉 Videolan.org.
2. Access the conversion tool
Click on Medium > Convert / Save.
A new window with several tabs will open.
3. Select the file to convert
In the tab Archivepress Add and browse your computer for the file you want to transform.
4. Choose the conversion option
Click on the button Convert / Save.
Another window will open with the output settings.
5. Choose the target profile
Here you can choose between different preconfigured profiles:
- 🎬 MP4 (for universal video).
- 🎞️ AVI (for classic compatibility).
- 🎵 MP3 (for light audio).
- FLAC (for audiophiles).
- 🎧 OGG or WAV (for technical tests).
If you are an advanced user, you can also create a personalized profile adjusting codecs, bitrate and resolution.
6. Select destination folder
Click on Browse and define the location where your new file will be saved.
7. Start the conversion
Press Start and wait for VLC to work its magic.
The time will depend on the size and quality of the original file.
Summary table of formats 📊
| Output format | Recommended use | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| MP4 | Videos for any device | High compatibility, good quality |
| AVI | Older projects or specific software | Compatibility with classic players |
| MKV | Saving videos with subtitles or multiple audios | Versatility and multiple tracks |
| MP3 | Music and podcasts | Lightweight and universal files |
| FLAC | High fidelity audio | Lossless quality |
| WAV | Professional sound editing | Highest quality, no compression |
| OGG | Free alternative to MP3 | Free of patents |
Tips for better results 🌟
- Check the output qualityIf you need it to be lighter, lower the bitrate.
- Do not abuse conversionsConverting several times may cause the quality to degrade.
- Create customized profiles if you always use the same settings.
- Keep VLC up to date to avoid problems with modern codecs.
- Try different formats until you find the ideal one for your device.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) ❓
Can I convert a video to audio only with VLC?
👉 Yes, just choose an audio profile such as MP3 or FLAC.
Does the converted file lose quality?
👉 It depends on the target format and configuration, but generally there will be a slight loss.
Does VLC convert to MOV (QuickTime) format?
👉 Not directly, although you can use MP4 which is highly compatible.
Can several files be converted at the same time?
👉 Yes, just add more files in the initial selection window.
Does it work on Windows, Mac and Linux?
👉 That's right! VLC is cross-platform.
Conclusion 🎯
Now you know that VLC Media Player is not just a playerbut an authentic multimedia center able to convert your video and audio files with ease.
The next time someone tells you they need a program to transform a file, you can tell them: "No need, use VLC".
As simple as that, as powerful as that.
The best part? You won't spend a single euro and you'll be able to enjoy your files in the format you want.