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Converting Video Files to Different Formats with FFmpeg

Authors
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    Name
    Hieu Cao
    Twitter

Introduction

FFmpeg is a versatile multimedia framework that allows you to convert, process, and manipulate audio and video files. One of its most common uses is converting video files from one format to another. This blog will guide you through the basics of video file conversion using FFmpeg.

Why Convert Video Formats?

Converting video formats is often necessary for:

  • Compatibility: Ensuring the file plays on specific devices or platforms.
  • Optimization: Reducing file size without compromising quality.
  • Standardization: Using a uniform format for distribution or editing.

Prerequisites

Make sure FFmpeg is installed on your system. If you haven't installed it yet, refer to our installation guide.

Video Conversion

To convert a video from one format to another, use the following command:

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 output.avi
  • -i input.mp4 specifies the input file.
  • output.avi specifies the output file with the desired format.

Example:

Convert an MP4 file to AVI:

ffmpeg -i sample.mp4 sample.avi

Specifying Codecs

You can explicitly define the codecs for video and audio streams during conversion:

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v libx264 -c:a aac output.mp4
  • -c:v libx264 specifies the H.264 codec for video.
  • -c:a aac specifies the AAC codec for audio.

Example:

Convert an AVI file to MP4 using specific codecs:

ffmpeg -i input.avi -c:v libx264 -c:a aac output.mp4

Conclusion

FFmpeg makes video conversion straightforward and efficient. Whether you're converting for compatibility, size reduction, or specific codec requirements, FFmpeg has you covered. Start experimenting with these commands and unlock the full potential of your video files!