Step 1. Install the program on your computer
Download Movavi Video Converter for Windows or Mac. Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install the software on your computer.
8 Best Ways to Convert MTS to MP4 on Windows and Mac
To convert MTS files to MP4, follow these simple steps:
Download and launch Movavi Video Converter.
Add files to the program.
Choose the MP4 preset and convert your files.
Need to convert MTS to MP4? No need to worry, as this article is all about some great MTS-to-MP4 converters that will make your work easier.
MTS files, often used in camcorders, are great for quality but not always practical for editing. Converting them to MP4 makes them far more versatile for both editing and sharing.
List of the best tools to convert MTS to MP4 for free
One of the benefits of paying for a tool to convert an MTS file is that you access the best features, and picture quality loss is minimal, if any. However, depending on your needs, a free MTS-to-MP4 converter may do just fine. If that's the case for you, the following tools will help you convert MTS to MP4 for free.
Best for: ultra-fast conversions
OS: Windows 7/8/10/11, Mac OS X 10.13 or higher
G2 rating: 4.5 out of 5, 3 reviews
When it comes to MTS to MP4 conversions, only a few, if any, can compare to Movavi Video Converter. This multimedia converter has been designed to suit all your conversion needs. Along with MTS and MP4, it supports over 180 media formats such as DVD, MP3, GIF, and RAW, among others. Regardless of your target use-device, you do not have to worry as it is equipped with over 200 presets for devices from leading manufacturers such as Samsung, Sony, Huawei, and Apple.
The best part, however, is that Movavi Video Converter gives you high-quality conversions, even in HD and ultra-HD, allowing you to enjoy your video files.
Converting MTS files to MP4 using Movavi Video Converter
Pros:
Ready-to-use conversions
Device-oriented presets
High-quality output
Wide range of supported formats
Cons:
Can’t convert via URL
MTS files are commonly used by HD camcorders and are known for their high video quality. However, they aren't widely supported by many devices or editing software. Converting MTS to MP4 ensures compatibility with most media players and platforms, making it easier to share or edit your footage.
2. FreeConvert
Best for: quick video conversions online
OS: any (web-based)
Trustpilot rating: 2.9 out of 5, 4 reviews
As the name goes by, FreeConvert is a free tool that can be used to convert MTS to MP4 online. It is an excellent alternative for processing large-sized files. It can convert videos up to 1 GB with ease. The best part is that the converter is free. Additionally, FreeConvert allows users to adjust all the necessary parameters right before conversion. The basic parameters include – aspect ratio, video codec, frame rate, screen size, bitrate, audio codec, and volume.
With the help of this MTS converter online, you can rotate, cut, and flip videos besides adding subtitles. You can easily make audio fade in and fade out. The files that you upload for conversion are protected with 256-bit SSL encryption. Also, your files will get deleted after 2 hours.
How to convert MTS to MP4 using FreeConvert
Start by opening the website of the MTS-to-MP4 converter online on your computer or mobile browser.
Proceed to the FreeConvert website
Click the Choose Files option to add the MTS file.
Select the format of output as MP4 from the Convert to section.
Click on Convert to start the conversion.
If you want to change the parameters, click on the Advanced Settings option.
As the status changes to Done, click on Download MP4.
Pros:
Fast conversion with no waiting time
No fees required to convert MTS to MP4
Adjustable video parameters
Batch conversion
Cons:
No export option to Dropbox or Google Drive
It comes with a file size limitation of 1 GB in the free plan
3. CloudConvert
Best for: converting and customizing online
OS: any (web-based)
Capterra rating: 4.5 out of 5, 21 reviews
Cloud Convert is yet another free and reliable MTS converter for online use. This tool's API is advanced and scalable. Along with video files such as MTS and MP4, it supports over 200 formats for images (PNG, JPG…), documents (DOC, PDF, HTML….), presentations (PPT, ODP…), eBooks (PDF, EPUB…), and audio (MP3, M4A).
It has a wide range of features and options, allowing you to customize the video. These range from aspect ratio, constant quality (CRF), and resolution, among others. Each day, you will have 25 free conversions. However, if you need to access the service beyond that, you will need to subscribe. Such packages start from $8 for 500 minutes with flexible payment options.
How to convert MTS files to MP4 using CloudConvert
Load the MTS video converter website on your favorite browser.
Proceed to the CloudConvert website
On the top right corner, you will see a Convert section where you will choose MTS to MP4.
Click on the Select File button to choose the MTS file.
Scroll down to the Options section, where you can adjust aspect ratio, resolution, and constant quality, among other settings, as desired.
Set the audio codec, bitrate, and volume as desired.
Choose the part of the video you wish to convert by trimming it.
Proceed to convert the file.
Pros:
Free to use
Wide range of customization features
Over 200 formats
High-quality conversions
Cons:
The free version is limited to 25 daily conversions
Before converting, check the audio settings, as MTS files often come with high-quality audio. Make sure your conversion tool preserves the audio quality or offers options like AAC or even lossless audio formats to maintain a balanced audiovisual experience in the final MP4 file.
Best for: fast online conversions
OS: any (web-based)
Online Video Converter by Movavi is a perfect tool for users who want an instant no-install solution for one-time conversions. It can easily handle the most popular video formats, MTS and MP4 included. With this online MTS to MP4 converter, you can process your files in a minute and download the result on your computer. It also offers a compressing tool in case you want to make your file smaller, too.
There is a limitation, of course – you can only upload files that are smaller than 100 MB. So this option is really a gem when it comes to quick irregular conversions of smaller files.
How to convert an MTS file to MP4 using Online Video Converter by Movavi
Pros:
Works really fast
Can handle the majority of video and audio files and images, too
Offers a compression feature
Tweakable output video resolution and audio quality
Cons:
Can only process files under 100 MB
5. Zamzar
Best for: supports various file formats
OS: any (web-based)
Trustpilot rating: 4.6 out of 5, 119 reviews
With over 510 million conversions since 2006, as posted on their website, Zamzar is undoubtedly one of the best MTS-to-MP4 converters free to use. Along with supporting many file formats, it is easy to use, and you do not need to download any software as it is online-based. To use Zamzar, you do not need to open an account.
Zamzar offers a unique email conversion feature. This allows you to convert files easily if you are working. With the free version, email and regular conversions are capped at 1MB and 50MB, respectively. For basic conversion, the free package is suitable. However, if you need to convert large files or perks such as online storage, you will have to upgrade.
How to convert an MTS file to MP4 using Zamzar
Use your favorite browser to load Zamzar's website.
Proceed to the Zamzar website
Go to the Add Files section and select the MTS file.
Set MP4 as the desired output format.
Click on the Convert Now button to start the conversion.
Pros:
Supports many file formats
It has a unique email conversion feature
User friendly
Cons:
The free version has file size limitations
Only two conversions a day are allowed with free accounts
Conversions can be delayed by up to one hour during times with high traffic
6. VLC
Best for: converting to basic video formats easily
OS: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11, Mac OS X 10.7.5 or higher, Ubuntu 16.04 and 18.04, Android version 2.2 or higher, iOS 9.0 or higher
CNET rating: 4.6 out of 5, 37 reviews
Though it's popularly known as a media player, VLC is also an MTS file converter. As an open-source platform that supports a wide range of video formats, you can use it for other conversion needs. With VLC, you are only required to download the software, but there are no subscription fees. Even though it's free to use, there are no invasive ads to worry about. The process is fairly straightforward, and with a few attempts, you'll nail it down.
How to use VLC to convert MTS to MP4
Download, install and launch the app.
Proceed to the VLC website
On the top left corner, click on Media and then select Convert.
Click the Add button and select the MTS file you wish to convert.
Click the Convert/Save button.
Set the preferred preset for your video.
Choose MTS as the desired output format.
Select a destination folder for the video.
Click the Start button to initiate the conversion.
Pros:
Free to use
Supports many file formats
Cons:
Limited features conversion features compared to other MTS-to-MP4 converters
Relatively slow conversion
7. Freemake
Best for: several editing features
OS: Windows Vista/7/8/10
Trustpilot rating: 3.7 out of 5, 556 reviews
As the name suggests, Freemake is a free-to-use tool for converting media files. With over 93 million users, it is one of the most reliable MTS-to-MP4 converters available. Along with video conversions, you can use it to convert image and audio files and even ripping videos from favorite DVDs.
Other excellent features with this tool include YouTube video conversion, which becomes accessible three days after installation via a Web Pack sent as a gift. With Freemake, you will not need a separate video editing tool as you can use it to cut and make minor edits.
Converting MTS to MP4 using Freemake
Download the application, then install and run it on your computer.
Proceed to the Freemake website
Click the +Video section to add your MTS file.
Set MP4 as the output format.
Choose the Same as Source option if you want the retain the parameters on the original file or alternatively;
Set preferred parameters such as resolution and codecs.
Press the Convert button to initiate the conversion.
Pros:
No subscription fees required to convert MTS to MP4
Easy conversion process
Editing features available
You can adjust output video parameters
Support available
Cons:
Limited features compared to paid tools
8. FFmpeg
Best for: secure and advanced conversions
OS: Windows Vista/7/8/10/11, Mac OS X 10.7 or higher
G2 rating: 4.6 out of 5, 19 reviews
FFmpeg is free software that consists of various programs and libraries meant to handle audio, video, and other media streams. At the very core, FFmpeg is the command-line tool itself. The software has been designed for processing audio and video files. It provides 360-degree web hosting and multimedia handling capabilities for broadcasters, developers, and content providers. The primary strength of FFmpeg can be found in its vast list of supported filters and codecs.
The best thing about FFmpeg is that converting MTS to MP4 can be done seamlessly. However, it might be a problem for all those not used to coding as it is wholly based on the coding structure.
Converting MTS to MP4 using FFmpeg
Download FFmpeg from the official website.
Proceed to the FFmpeg website
Open the terminal application to get the command line prompt.
Find out the MTS file for conversion.
Now run FFmpeg on your desired file. You will have to use this command: ffmpeg -i sampleAVCHD.mts -vcodec copy -an -f mp4 myfile.mp4
Press Enter in the terminal and run the command.
Pros:
Supports all kinds of media formats
Secure, robust, and advanced conversions
Great filter support
Cons:
Not suitable for beginners
Limited cross-platform support
If you’re experiencing slow conversions, it might be due to the large size of MTS files since they’re often high-definition. Using software like FreeConvert or Movavi Video Converter that offers batch conversion can speed up the process, allowing you to handle multiple files in one go instead of handling each one separately.
How to convert MTS files to MP4 with Movavi Video Converter
When you need to convert .mts to .mp4, Movavi Video Converter is arguably the most reliable tool. Picture quality is an integral factor with videos, and this is where Movavi sets itself apart from other MTS converter tools. There is no limit to the videos' size and the number you can add to the batch. Once you prepare your batch, you can leave the application running as you attend to other matters. This feature is then bolstered with lightning-fast conversion, allowing you to access the file within a short period.
Step 1. Install the program on your computer
Download Movavi Video Converter for Windows or Mac. Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions to install the software on your computer.
Step 2. Add your MTS video for conversion
Click the Add Media button and then Add Video in the upper-left corner of the converter interface. Choose one or more files to convert from MTS to another format.
Step 3. Choose the desired file format
To find the output video format you want, click the Video tab. If you want to be able to play your converted video on a mobile device, click the Devices tab and choose your device model.
Step 4. Edit MTS files (optional)
Select the video for editing from the list of added files. Then click the Edit button in the upper part of the program window. Select the desired editing tool from the list and apply it to the video in the window that opens.
Step 5. Compress the MTS video (optional)
Click the estimated output size in the list of added files. In the pop-up window, set the desired output size value using the File size slider. By clicking Convert sample, you can see if the output file still looks good. When you are satisfied with the result, just click anywhere outside the pop-up window.
Step 6. Set the output folder and convert your MTS files
By default, converted files are saved to the Movavi Library folder. To change to a different output folder, click the Save to button and choose a new folder. Click Convert to start converting the MTS files to the specified format. After the conversion is complete, the folder containing the converted files will open automatically.
Always check the frame rate when converting MTS files. If it’s too low or inconsistent, the video may appear choppy after conversion. Matching the frame rate of your original video ensures smooth playback in the converted file.
How to choose the best free MTS to MP4 converter
Both online and free converters have their advantages and disadvantages. While MTS-to-MP4 converters for online use don't require you to download shady freeware or shareware, they usually have either file size restrictions or a limited number of formats. Free programs are generally lacking features and conversion speed compared to their paid counterparts but are perfect for converting small batches of files. Movavi Video Converter provides both conversion speed and reliability for a relatively small price and without a file size limit. Download the trial version and see for yourself!
To help you choose, we’ve made the following list of the best converters (in no particular order):
Movavi Video Converter – full video conversion package.
FreeConvert – easy-to-use interface.
CloudConvert – best for users who want to create GIFs online.
Online Video Converter by Movavi – for quick online conversions.
Zamzar – best for small file sizes.
VLC – playing and ripping media.
Freemake – simple and quick conversions.
FFmpeg – suitable for users who need an all-around media organization tool.
MTS vs. MP4: what is better? If you want to know more about technical differences between MTS and MP4, check out this MP4 vs. MTS comparison table.
Here’s what Movavi’s team does to provide you with verified information:
When selecting products to include in our reviews, we research both demand and popularity.
All the products covered in this article have been tested by our team.
When testing, we compare key characteristics, including supported input and output formats, quality loss when converting, and other significant features.
We study user reviews from popular review platforms and make use of this information when writing our product reviews.
We collect feedback from our users and analyze their opinions of Movavi software as well as products from other companies.
Frequently asked questions
With increasing picture quality needs, the MTS file format is one that offers high-definition videos. It is primarily used in Panasonic and Sony HD cameras or for storing high-definition Blu-ray discs. MTS is saved in the Advanced Video Coding High Definition (AVCHD). Under this file extension, 720p and 1080p are supported. MTS files are large and often rare. As such, most media players are not able to play MTS videos. This can be addressed by converting MTS to MP4 using a reliable converter such as Movavi Video Converter.
If you want to convert MTS files for free using a Movavi program, but you’re not ready to invest in a paid option yet, try Movavi Free Video Converter first. It has limited features compared to Movavi Video Converter, but it still does the job. It’s probably one of the best free MTS converters, as it supports more than 180 media formats (MTS is one of them, of course) and delivers the result really quickly.
One way to convert MTS to MP4 on a Mac is to use the Mac version of Movavi Video Converter. You could also use a free desktop app – the VLC player. If you don't want to install any additional software, you can try using an online conversion tool.
If you are looking for a way of playing an MTS file on a Mac, the VLC media player may help. Start the MTS video player and choose Open File from the Media menu. In the window that opens, find the file you want to play and click Open. Another way to play MTS files on Windows with VLC is to locate the folder with the desired video, right-click on it and choose Open with > VLC media player.
With the right tool, converting MTS files to MP4 in Windows 10 is fairly easy. In this regard, there is no better option than Movavi Video Converter. With this software, your videos' picture quality, even HD, will be preserved after conversion. It also offers a wide range of features, fast conversions, and an easy-to-follow process.
Download, install, and run Movavi Video Converter.
Add the MTS file.
Set the desired format.
Click the Convert button.
Although it is the official application for iPhone users to record and edit high-definition videos, iMovie does not support MTS files. This is because MTS files, usually captured by camcorders, are usually raw and cannot be imported directly to iMovie due to various limitations. Therefore, if you want to edit your video in iMovie, MTS files should be converted to iMovie-supported formats. With Movavi Video Converter, you will be able to achieve this easily and quickly.
First, convert your MTS files to iMovie-supported format, like MP4, using Movavi Video Converter.
After the conversion, open iMovie on your computer.
Click on File from the top.
Click on Import Movies.
Select the file you want to import.
You cannot use Windows Media Player to convert MTS to MP4. But you can use other options like Movavi Video Converter for converting MTS to MP4 in Windows OS.
If you're a Mac user, you may already know that the QuickTime player doesn't support MTS video files. But don't get depressed! You can watch your favorite videos on a Mac, too – just convert them to a format that's compatible with Mac, like MP4, MOV, or M4V.
The built-in video player on an iPhone can play MP4 and MOV files without a problem, but other media formats, including MTS, have no native support. To play these files, you can either install additional software that supports MTS or convert your files using the appropriate software.
You can convert MTS to MP4 without losing quality for YouTube using any kind of conversion tool. Some of the favorite tools include Movavi Video Converter and VLC media player.
There are various apps and online MTS-to-MP4 converters for Android. For example, you can use FreeConvert. Just upload the MTS file, and you are good to go.
Movavi Video Converter
See other useful how-to guides
How to convert video to a DVD-compatible format
How to change video format
How to upload videos to YouTube
How to compress a video
How to convert AVI videos
How to Reduce the Video File Size [5 Easy Steps]
Convert AVCHD to MP4 Online for Free
20 Best Free Video Converters for Windows 10/8/7
16 Best Subtitles Download Sites [Free] – Movavi Converter
M2TS to MP4 Converter Free & Online – Movavi Video Converter
Have questions?
Join for how-to guides, special offers, and app tips!
1.5M+ users already subscribed to our newsletter