4 Best Ways to Convert MP4 to MKV With No Quality Loss

Part 1. What is MP4 and MKV

Before we move on to the MP4 to MKV conversion process, it is important to first understand their distinctions. Short for MPEG-4 Part 14, MP4 is a digital multimedia storage format used to store video, audio, and other data. This versatile format is highly popular for streaming and video playback across devices and platforms. These files are compressed using H.264 video codec, making their size small with minimal loss in quality.

MKV, on the other hand, is an open container video format used to store multiple data. It supports virtually any video codec, including high-definition formats like H.264 and H.265. MKV files are actually much more flexible than MP4. Not to mention, these files are used for storing multimedia content such as movies and TV shows. Additionally, MKVs are also used for Blu-ray rips and other high-quality video content.

Here’s why you need to convert MP4 to MKV:

Codec Support: MP4 files have limited codec support, including the H.246. On the flip side, MKV can contain almost any video or audio codec. This includes newer formats like H.265/HEVC for more efficient compression.

Quality Retention: Although MP4 files can produce high-quality videos, they often compromise quality due to the compression methods used. Meanwhile, MKV is designed to keep maximum video quality, mainly when dealing with high-definition formats.

Audio and Subtitle Tracks: MP4 supports a single audio and subtitle track, which is sufficient for simple playback. In contrast, MKV can hold multiple audio tracks and subtitle streams within the same file. This makes it a good option for videos with multiple languages or closed captions.

Usage Cases: MP4 is best for lightweight, everyday usage. Its small size and compatibility make it perfect for general video use. On the other hand, MKV is more suited for professional or high-quality archiving and advanced media applications.

Part 2. How to Convert MP4 to MKV

2.1 Check Codec Compatibility

4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate

4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate is the best MP4 to MKV converter you could ever have. This exceptional multi-format converter has a breathtaking number of supported formats that reach over a thousand. Some of the popular media stream formats include MP4, MKV, MOV, MXF, AVI, and more. Aside from standard and high-definition videos, it can also handle higher resolutions like 4K, 5K, and 8K. The best thing of all, 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate can process multiple files simultaneously at 120× ultra-fast lossless conversion speed.

Step 1Beforehand, get a free download of 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate. Install the multi-format converter and wait for the installation process to finish.

Step 2Once the installation is complete, launch the 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate on your computer. By default, you will be auto-directed to the Converter tab.

Step 3Look for +Add Files at the upper left navigation pane and click it to import the MP4 files. Meanwhile, you can select Add Folder if your MP4 videos are compiled in a single folder.

Step 4After importing the MP4s, move to the bottom part and click the Output Format field. Locate the MKV format under the Video category and select your preferred output preset.

Step 5Next, click the Output Format Settings button to further enhance the quality of your videos. Choose the High-Quality option, set the resolution to 4096×2160, frame rate, etc.

Step 6 At this stage, proceed to the High-Speed Conversion button and enable the 120× Faster Lossless Conversion option. Once set, click Convert All to start the conversion process.

4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate provides an easy-going, fast, and lossless MP4 to MKV conversion process. Aside from multimedia conversion, it includes additional features, making it a multifunctional software. Options include converting SBS 3D to anaglyph 3D, creating a Toolbox with over 20+ editing tools, slideshow creation, photo/video collages, etc.

HandBrake

HandBrake is a highly popular video transcoder known for being a free and open-source option. Among other video formats, it can convert MP4 to MKV with customization support. In addition to general conversion, HandBrake offers several presets for higher-quality output. This includes AV1 MKV 2160p60 4K, H.265 MKV 1080p30, H.264 MKV 1080p30, etc.

Step 1On HandBrake, click the Open Source button in the upper left navigation pane. Then, you will need to click Folder (Batch Scan) or File to add the MP4 source video.

Step 2Following this step, move to the Summary tab and select MKV on the Format dropdown menu. If you want higher quality output, choose a preset like AV1 MKV 2160p60 4K.

Step 3Once that is done, click the Browse button to choose a path destination. Next, switch to the Start Encode button and click it to initiate the conversion process.

HandBrake is straightforward to navigate once you have mastered its interface. If you want a reverse conversion, you can also convert MKV to MP4 with HandBrake. However, you should be aware that it can only output three formats: MP4, MKV, and WebM.

Freemake Video Converter

Freemake Video Converter is an MP4 to MKV converter freeware with a straightforward interface. Beyond converting to MKV, it can output other video formats, including AVI, WMV, MOV, etc. But what makes it truly flexible is that it supports physical to digital media conversion. This means you can convert DVDs to MOV, MKV, MP4, and other supported formats.

Step 1On the Freemake Video Converter, click the + Video button to insert the MP4 file. Once the video is selected, the software will analyze it and will be loaded afterward.

Step 2After completing the previous step, proceed to the bottom of the Freemake Video Converter’s interface. Select the MKV option from the row of output format selections.

Step 3In the newly opened window, select a preset or make a custom one. Specify the path destination and click Convert to begin the conversion process.

Freemake Video Converter provides free access to perform digital media file conversion. But to make things clear, it can be used for free but with certain limitations. In other words, you have to upgrade to the King Level with different pricing plans for full access.

Zamzar Online File Conversion

Zamzar Online File Conversion is a free online converter for various files, including videos. It offers countable supported video output formats and video output presets to choose from. This MP4 to MKV converter online supports uploading video from various sources. Options include local drive and cloud-based storage like Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, etc.

Step 1Reach Zamzar Online File Conversion by going to its official website. Afterward, continue by clicking the Choose File button to upload the MP4 file.

Step 2Once the file is uploaded, click Convert To and explore the selection of supported formats. Aside from MKV, you can find other formats like AVI, 3GP, MOV, and a few more.

Step 3After selecting your output format, click the Convert Now button to commence the conversion process. Finally, click the Download button to obtain the converter file.

Zamzar Online File Conversion is a no-software installation option for converting .mp4 to .mkv. It is an excellent option for small, quick conversions. However, larger, higher-quality files can take significant time to complete the conversion process.

Conclusion

Mastering the technique to convert MP4 to MKV can give you several advantages. With the right media conversion software, you can easily perform such tasks without losing quality. Among the software used in this post, 4Videosoft Video Converter Ultimate stands out. It allows you to change MP4 to MKV files in batch with ultra-fast lossless conversion speed.