by Brian Fisher • Jun 14,2019 • Proven solutions
The power of 20 Unix Tools in a single application to quickly encode and author video in any format. FfmpegX is a Mac OS X graphic user interface designed to easily operate more than 20 powerful Unix open-source video and audio processing tools including ffmpeg, mpeg2enc the open-source mpeg-2 encoder and multiplexer, and mencoder the mpeg-4 encoder with subtitles support. FfmpegX is a Mac OS X GUI to ffmpeg the 'hyper fast video and audio encoder' (This GUI provides quick encoding to DivX, XviD. Quick Batcher is an OS X application that quickly and easily lets you create video conversion batch jobs for the Mac OS application - ffmpegX.
FFmpeg is a powerful command-line conversion tool for Windows and Linux. It can be used for totally free for any purpose. Since the command is not so user-friendly for regular users. There are graphic user interface (GUI) implements for FFmpeg, like WinFF and AVANTI for Windows. However, I have not found an exact GUI for FFmpeg on Mac. This article will show you 3 ways to convert any videos on Mac OS X.
Quick Batcher is an OS X application that quickly and easily lets you create video conversion batch jobs for the Mac OS application - ffmpegX.
FFmpeg for Mac Alternative
#1. UniConverter for Mac
This is the highly recommended FFmpeg for Mac alternative as I am concerned. UniConverter not only provides you with a user-friendly interface, but also comes with more features than FFmpeg, including optimized presets for all popular devices, DVD burning, DVD backup, and so on. You can even download video from YouTube. Like FFmpeg, it's the all-in-one tool you need to convert audio and video for macOS. Try FFmpeg for Mac alternative for free.
Get the Best Alternative to FFmpeg for Mac - UniConverter
- Access to wide range of Presets: Optimized presets for all mobile devices, gaming accessories, TV and online video sharing websites.
- High Performance with zero quality loss: 90X faster conversion speed without any quality loss issues of the video codecs.
- Merge Various Video Files: Drag & drop or load multiple videos and merge them in a single video file easily.
- Extract Audio: Easily extract audio files from a video and export them to WAV, WMA, M4A, AC3, MP3 & AAC with 3 simple clicks.
- Time-Saving Product: With its GPU Acceleration technology it completes conversion process of any video or audio size in a short time.
- Compatible with macOS 10.15 Catalina, 10.14 Mojave, 10.13 High Sierra, 10.12 Sierra, 10.11 El Capitan, 10.10 Yosemite, 10.9 Mavericks, 10.8 Mountain Lion and 10.7 Lion.
How to Convert Videos with FFmpeg for Mac Alternative
First of all, you can watch the following video tutorial to get a rough idea of how UniConverter converts videos and then follow the steps to convert video by yourself.
Step 1. Load your video files
After you install and launch iSkysoft program on your Mac computer, please drag and drop the videos to it. Or go to the main menu and then choose 'Add Files' to add your video files.
Step 2. Set output format
This program allows you to convert videos to various standard and HD video formats, such as MOV, MP4, M4V, FLV, AVI, VOB, 3GP, MKV, WMV, etc. Just select the right one according to your needs. By the way, you can convert media files to audio as well. If necessary, you are able to custmize the encode settings by going to 'File' menu then press 'Encode Settings'.
Step 3. Ready to convert
After making all setting, please click the 'Convert' button to start the conversion. This process will be completed within several seconds.
#2. FFmpegX for Mac
Although the name is FFmpegX, it's not only FFmpeg included, but mpeg2enc (mpeg-2 encoder and multiplexer), mencoder (mpeg-4 encoder) and up to 20 powerful video and audio processing tools. You can access them all in a single application for free.
#3. Use FFmpeg command line tool on Mac
If you are familiar with FFmpeg command line tools, a graphic user interface may be helpless for you. Command line is usually more efficient the GUI. So is there a method to run FFmpeg on Mac? Sure. You can compile FFmpeg with the open source files yourself, using your own compiling options. However, it's too difficult for regular people. Here, I'll show you how to use ffmpeg command line tool on Mac. Since FFmpegX works on Mac and it includes FFmpeg, we can just extract FFmpeg from FFmpegX package. Below is how.
1. Download FFmpegX DMG package online to your Mac.
2. Control-Click the FFmpegX package, and choose 'Show Package Contents.'
3. In the window that appears, open 'Resources.'
4. Copy the 'ffmpeg' executable to /usr/local/bin.
4. Copy the 'ffmpeg' executable to /usr/local/bin.
5. Open the terminal and run ffmpeg to see whether it works.
Tips: If exits any problem, execute these commands and try again:
sudo chown root:wheel /usr/local/bin/ffmpeg
sudo chmod 755 /usr/local/bin/ffmpeg
by Christine Smith • 2020-10-12 11:33:22 • Proven solutions
Part 1. 10 Free Video Converters for Mac Users (macOS 10.15 Included)
There are several situations when you may need to convert your file formats like playing them on an array of devices, sharing them over the Internet, uploading them to YouTube, resizing video size, record desktop activities, and others. In all such and other situations, a need for an excellent video converter arises. What's the best video converter for Mac? If you have a Mac system and are looking for a free solution, here are the best ten free video converters for Mac.
- Wondershare Free Video Converter for Mac
- Handbrake for Mac
- Any Video Converter for Mac
- Freemake Video Converter
- QuickTime
- DivX Video Converter
- Media Coder
- FFmpegx
- MPEG Streamclip
- Miro Video Converter Free
1. Wondershare Free Video Converter for Mac
It is one of the best free Mac video converters that are compatible with working on OS X 10.6 -10.15 versions. Using this feature-rich program, you can convert both video and audio files in over 1,000 formats like MP4, AVI, MKV, DVD, and others to iOS compatible devices like iPhone, Apple TV, iPad, Apple Generic, and others. The converted files using the Macx video converter are of decent quality, and the conversion speed is also fast. It also allows downloading videos from YouTube and other 10,000 sites to your desired formats. Useful and straightforward editing features like Trim, Crop for personalization are also supported. Meanwhile, you can record your desktop activities with this converter as well.
How Do I Convert Video to MP4 on Mac for Free?
- Launch the Wondershare Video Converter for Mac and add the video file.
- Select MP4/MKV/MOV or any other format as the output format.
- Click on Convert to start the conversion for free.
Step 1 Launch the Best Free Video Converter for Mac and import videos.
Launch the Video Converter Free for Mac. Drag and drop files to the program, like MPG, WMV, MP3 from your Mac that you want to convert. Alternatively, select the Convert tab, click the Add Files to browse and add files.
Step 2 Select MP4/MKV/MOV or another format as the output format.
Added videos appear as thumbnails on the Mac video converter interface showing file details, including size, format, etc. Select the target format to which you want to convert your videos by clicking the drop-down icon beside Convert files to> Video > the format and the resolution.
Step 3 Convert files to MOV/MP4/MKV on Mac.
At the Output tab, choose a location on Mac where you want to save the converted files. Finally, hit Convert All to start the video conversion process.
2. Handbrake for Mac
It is a widely-used open-source video converter Mac that supports an array of input formats, but the output formats are only MP4, M4V, and MKV. This cross-platform program is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux systems. In addition to decent quality conversions, Handbrake also supports advanced features like adding subtitles, adding audio tracks, setting and customizing frame rate, changing video codec, adjusting chapters, and others. Presets for quick conversions are also available.
There are various pros and cons associated with using the MP4 converter Mac.
Pros:
● A wide array of input format supports converting almost all types of files.
● It comes with advanced control features.
● Presets for quick conversion.
Cons:
● It reminds of potential virus risk during installation.
● It supports limited output formats.
● Only the first four minutes are supported during the Live preview.
3. Any Video Converter for Mac
This software, with a minimalist interface, is one of the best tools for your video conversion needs. Any Video Converter Free for Mac supports 24 input formats like MP4, MPEG, VOB, WMV, 3GP, 3G2, MKV, and more. The batch processing feature is also present to process multiple files at a time. User-defined video outputs help in quick conversion. The program is also capable of extracting audio files from your videos. YouTube and Google videos can be directly downloaded and converted to desired formats by merely placing their link.
Is Any Video Converter free indeed? Many users concern about this problem, so we have tested it. It is not free but with a trial version. With the free version, you can convert files in the first 3 minutes.
Pros:
● Good quality video conversion.
● It can download videos from YouTube and Google.
● It supports popular video formats.
Cons:
● Slow conversion speed.
● The program attempts to install additional software during the setup process.
● It doesn't support audio input formats.
4. Freemake Video Converter
As the name suggests, it is a video converter mac program. But do not be mistaken, Freemake video downloader for Mac is also a powerful video size compressor that delivers high-quality products. It can convert movies and videos between 500+ formats for absolutely nothing.
Here are some pros and cons:
Pros:
● It is fast.
● It can convert over 500+ formats.
● It can perform on various operating systems.
Cons:
● Some customization tools are missing on this online mac video converter.
● It cannot run on iOS and Android devices.
5. QuickTime
QuickTime is the built-in video player of the Mac system that multitasks and performs an array of other functions as well, including video conversion. While using QuickTime, there is no need to download any software or program as it comes bundled with the system. The process of video conversion is quick and straightforward.
Pros:
● It is preinstalled with Mac and thus no need for any software download.
● Simple interface with easy-to-use features.
● It allows choosing for different resolutions.
Cons:
● No batch processing option.
● It has limited codec support.
● Limited features as compared to other programs
6. DivX Video Converter
It is another popularly used converter for Mac that supports a decent list of input and output formats. The program comes with editing tools so that you can customize videos before conversion. In addition to local files, you can also add videos from Blu-ray discs, Google Drive, and Dropbox for conversion. A Windows version of the software is also available.
Pros:
● Simple to use interface.
● It allows setting resolution, aspect ratio, bit rate, and other file parameters.
● It comes with some predefined options.
Cons:
● Push you to try and upgrade to the paid premium version.
● The problem of program freezing.
7. Media Coder
It is another feature-packed conversion tool that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. Using the video converter on Mac, you can convert all popular video types in an array of formats and can convert multiple files at a time. The software supports CUDA, NVENC, and QuickSync for a fast conversion. There is also an option for adjusting the bit rate and other file parameters.
Pros:
● Fast conversion speed while maintaining high quality.
● It allows setting for converting videos to grayscale and quarter-pixel.
● Bitrate setting works for audio and video parts of the file.
Cons:
● Features are inclined towards tech-savvy users and thus not very friendly for new users.
● There are too many download buttons on the site.
8. FFmpegx
Ffmpegx For Mac Os X 10.13
Another free Mac video converter that allows good quality conversion of your files is FFmpegx. The program is based on the collection of UNIX tools, which not only makes it flexible but compelling as well. The drag and drop interface of the software makes it easy to use for all types of users. FFmpegx supports a wide array of formats and also allows customizing files as needed with different tools. The conversion speed of the program is also breakneck. There is also a subtitle converter with OCR with the feature of VOB to SRT text format.
Pros:
● It supports almost all popular and used video formats.
● It allows video customization with features like automatic crop tool, video tools, bitrate calculator, and others.
● Simple drag and drop interface.
Cons:
● Not very friendly and easy for beginners to use.
● The official documentation is confusing and complicated.
9. MPEG Streamclip
If you are in search of a simple and easy to use video converter, MPEG Streamclip is the right choice. Using the software, you simply have to drag the files to the interface and select the desired output format. The converter has options to customize your videos using different tools. In addition to video conversion, the software can also be used for playing files, edit them to convert them into muxed files.
Pros:
● Simple to use and understand.
● It has a wide range of supported formats.
● It allows editing videos using Cut, Copy, Paste, and Trim function.
Cons:
Ffmpeg For Mac Os X Download
● The design is not very impressive.
10. Miro Video Converter Free
Miro is another free to use, open-source video conversion tool for Mac users. Using the software, you can convert all types of videos to WebM, MP4, or OGG Theora. The program also allows converting your files for formats that are fit to be played on Android, iPad, and iPhone. Custom sizing and batch conversion support are additional features. Windows version of the software is also available.
Pros:
● Open-source and freeware video converter.
● Simple to use interface.
Cons:
● They have limited output formats.
● They have limited video editing features.
Part 2. 2 Online Video Converters Free for Mac Users
1. Online UniConverter
Have you been on the lookout for a free online video converter for Mac that is both fast and equally reliable? Well, Online UniConverter is the best of both worlds. It is an online video converter that has a friendly user interface and very professional in its work.
Pros:
● It has very high conversion speeds, thus, saving you a lot of time.
● High-speed download. Once the conversion is complete, it allows you to download the videos swiftly.
● It provides unlimited file compression. It means you can compress as many videos as you want.
Cons:
● Since it is an online application, you must be connected to the Internet to use it.
● It has limited customization tools.
2. Apowersoft Free Mac Video Converter
Apowersoft Free Online Video Converter is another name in the list of top free Mac video converters. The program converts your file to the desired format with decent quality and fast speed. The software is compatible with working with all types of Mac laptops and desktops and works on almost all types of browsers, including Safari, Firefox, Chrome, and others. Bitrate, frame rate, video resolution, sample rate, channels, and audio bit rate can be edited as needed.
Pros:
● Simple to use.
● Support all commonly used formats.
● It has no setup process and can be used online.
Cons:
● Dependent on internet connectivity.
● File size limits.
Part 3. Best Video Converter for Mac You Should Know
Ffmpegx For Mac Os X 10.8
If you are seeking for an all-round Mac video converter with the best video output quality, fastest video conversion speed and the most formats supported, Wondershare UniConverter (originally Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate) will be your top choice. Its built-in versatile toolbox will impress you a lot!
Wondershare UniConverter - Your Complete Video Toolbox
- Convert videos on Mac over 1000 formats like AVI, MKV, MOV, MP4, etc.
- Convert video to optimized preset for almost all of the devices.
- 30X faster conversion speed than other conventional converters.
- Edit, enhance & personalize your videos by trimming, cropping, adding subtitles, and more.
- Burn video to playable DVD or Blu-ray disc with an attractive free DVD template.
- Download or record videos from YouTube and other 10,000 video sharing sites.
- Versatile toolbox includes fixing video metadata, GIF maker, casting video to TV, VR converter, and screen recorder.
- Supported OS: Mac OS 10.15 (Catalina), 10.14, 10.13, 10.12, 10.11, 10.10, 10.9, 10.8, 10.7, 10.6, Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista.
Watch Video Tutorial to Convert Videos Easily With Best MP4 Converter for Mac
Features of Wondershare UniConverter for Mac:
1. Convert video to over 1,000 video/audio formats as well as optimized devices and editing software.
2. Edit video before conversion via Trim/Crop videos, add Watermark/Subtitles, apply Effects, and adjust Audio.
3. Download videos from YouTube, Netflix, and other 10,000 video sharing sites.
4. Record screen with the built-in screen recorder.
5. Burn videos to DVD or Blu-ray discs with many free templates.
6. Compress video to a smaller size for secure storage or sharing.
7. Transfer converted or downloaded video to any iOS and Android devices.
8. Versatile video toolbox consists of Fix Media Metadata, GIF Maker, VR Converter, DVD Copy, etc.
If you want to know more features and tips on how to use this video converter on Mac, just move to How to Use UniConverter on Mac Easily >> to learn more.
Part 4. Comparison Table Between These 12 Free Converters for Mac
Program | Features | Supported systems | Price |
Wondershare Free Video Converter Mac | Video converter for devices Free media converter Free audio converter | Mac Windows | Free with the premium version |
Handbrake for Mac | Batch scanning Live static Video preview | Mac windows | Free |
Any video converter for Mac | Supports 100+ inputs Rip audio files from videos | Mac Windows | Free |
QuickTime | Edit clips through the cut, copy and paste functions Save and encode to any codec Save existing clips from the net directly to a hard drive | Mac | Free |
DivX video convertor | Can play a video from a cloud Can allow you to cast videos to a big screen | Mac Windows | Free |
Media coder | Enhance video quality through various features Segmental video encoding tech Multi-threaded design | Mac Windows | Free Paid subscription for Pro version |
FFmpegx | Supports subtitles Automatic crop tool Reauthors SVCD as DVD | Linux Mac Windows | $15 to register |
MPEG Streamclip | Can handle file streams larger than 4GB Save edited movies as MOV files | Mac | Free |
Miro video converter free | Convert any form to mp4 Convert any format to Ogg Theora Video | Android PSP Kindle fire iOS | Free |
Freemake video converter | Upload clips to YouTube Convert 4k and full HD online Cut, join and rotate clips Embed videos to websites | Windows Android | Free |
Online Uniconverter | Audio cutter Image resizer Mute video Gif maker Image compressor | Mac Windows | Free with the premium version |
Apower free mac video convertor | Fast video conversion speeds Trim video, adjust and add watermarks | Windows Mac | Free |