As a video enthusiast, you may have come across the challenge of converting MTS files to MP4 on your Mac device. MTS files are usually created by camcorders such as Sony, Panasonic, and Canon, and they are not compatible with many media players and devices. Converting your MTS files to MP4 format is the only way to play them on a wide range of devices and media players.
In this blog post, we will share with you several methods on how to convert MTS to MP4 on a Mac device for free. We understand how daunting the process can be, especially if you are new to video editing or Mac devices. Thus, our guide is going to break down the different methods, step by step, to make it easy for you.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we get into the details of the various methods, there are a few essential things you need to have. These include:
- A Mac device
- MTS files you want to convert
- A stable internet connection
- A reliable MTS to MP4 converter app
What Requires Your Focus?
To convert your MTS files, you need to focus on the following:
- The file format you want to convert to, which is MP4
- The method best suited to your needs.
Different Methods to Convert MTS to MP4 on Mac Free
Below are some of the easiest and most efficient methods to convert MTS files to MP4 on a Mac device.
Method 1: Using VLC Media Player
VLC Media Player is a popular media player that can convert MTS files to MP4 format. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to use, even for first-time users. Here are the steps:
- Download VLC Media Player on your Mac device.
- Launch VLC Media Player and click on the "File" option at the top left corner of the screen.
- Select "Convert/Stream" from the dropdown list.
- Click on the "+Add" button to upload the MTS file you want to convert.
- Select "Convert" from the drop-down list of options available.
- Select "MP4" as the output format from the conversion profile.
- Click on "Start" to convert the MTS file to MP4 format.
Pros:
- VLC Media Player is free to download and use.
- It is user-friendly, even for first-time users.
- Has a wide range of conversion options.
Cons:
- The converted video may lose its quality.
- It may take some time to convert the video depending on its size.
Method 2: Using Handbrake
Handbrake is a popular open-source video converter that can convert MTS files to MP4 format. It is easy to use and provides a wide range of customization options. Here is how to use it:
- Download and install Handbrake on your Mac device.
- Launch Handbrake and click on the "Source" button to upload the MTS file you want to convert.
- Select "MP4" as the output format.
- Click on the "Start" button to begin the conversion process.
Pros:
- Handbrake is free and open-source software.
- It provides a wide range of customization options.
- It is user-friendly.
Cons:
- May take a lot of time to convert a video depending on its size.
- Conversion may result in a loss of quality.
Method 3: Using iMovie
iMovie is a user-friendly video editing software that can be used to convert MTS files to MP4 format. Here’s how to do it:
- Open iMovie on your Mac device.
- Click on the "Import Media" button to upload the MTS file you want to convert.
- Drag and drop the MTS file into the timeline.
- Click on "File" at the top of the screen, then select "Share."
- Select the "File" option.
- Select "MP4" as the output format from the list of available options.
- Click on "Next," then save the file to your desired location.
Pros:
- iMovie is user-friendly.
- Has a wide range of editing options.
- Produces high-quality MP4 files.
Cons:
- iMovie comes pre-installed on some Mac devices, while others will require purchasing.
- May take up a lot of space on your Mac device.
Why Can’t I Convert MTS to MP4 on My Mac?
You may experience some challenges while trying to convert MTS files to MP4 on your Mac. Some of the reasons why you may not be able to convert include:
- Lack of a reliable MTS to MP4 converter app.
- Incompatible software.
- Large file sizes.
Fortunately, there are fixes for each of these challenges. Firstly, ensure that you have a reliable MTS to MP4 converter app. Secondly, use software that is compatible with your Mac device. Lastly, consider reducing the size of your MTS files to make them easier to convert.
Implications and Recommendations
Converting your MTS files to MP4 format comes with several benefits. Firstly, you can play the files on a wide range of devices and media players. Secondly, MP4 files are smaller in size than MTS files, making it easier to store and share them. Lastly, MP4 files do not compromise on quality.
We recommend that you try different conversion methods to identify the most efficient one. Also, ensure that you take measures to preserve the quality of your videos during the conversion process.
5 FAQs about Converting MTS to MP4 on a Mac Device
Q1. How long does it take to convert an MTS file to MP4 on a Mac?
A1. The time it takes to convert an MTS file to MP4 on a Mac depends on the size of the file and the method being used. However, most methods take between 10 and 30 minutes to convert the file.
Q2. Can I convert MTS files to MP4 format without losing quality?
A2. Converting MTS files to MP4 may result in a loss of quality, depending on the conversion method being used. However, some methods can preserve the quality of the original MTS file.
Q3. Can I use online converters to convert MTS files to MP4 on a Mac?
A3. Yes, there are several online MTS to MP4 converters you can use to convert your files on your Mac device. Ensure that you choose a reliable and efficient online converter to avoid loss of data and security threats.
Q4. Can I convert MTS files to other formats besides MP4?
A4. Yes, you can convert MTS files to other formats such as AVI, WMV, and MOV, among others. Most video converters have a wide range of output format options.
Q5. Do I need to download software to convert MTS to MP4 on my Mac?
A5. Yes, you need to download software to convert MTS to MP4 on your Mac. However, some Mac devices come pre-installed with video editing software such as iMovie that you can use to convert MTS to MP4.
In Conclusion
Converting your MTS files to MP4 is necessary to play them on a wide range of devices and media players. We have shared with you three different methods to convert MTS to MP4 on a Mac, including using VLC Media Player, Handbrake, and iMovie. Ensure that you choose a method that suits your needs and focus on preserving the quality of your videos. Lastly, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and a stable MTS to MP4 converter to avoid data loss and security threats.