How to Use OJOsoft MKV Converter to Convert MKV to MP4 FastMKV (Matroska) is a flexible container widely used for high-quality video and multiple audio/subtitle tracks. MP4 is a broadly compatible format for phones, tablets, streaming services, and many video editors. Converting MKV to MP4 can improve playback compatibility while keeping good quality. This guide explains how to use OJOsoft MKV Converter to convert MKV files to MP4 quickly and efficiently, with best practices for speed and quality.
Before you start — what you need
- OJOsoft MKV Converter installed on a Windows PC.
- Source MKV files you want to convert.
- Enough free disk space: at least the size of the source files plus room for temporary files and output.
- Optional: a basic understanding of resolution, bitrate, and codecs (H.264/H.265).
Step 1 — Launch OJOsoft MKV Converter and add files
- Open OJOsoft MKV Converter.
- Click the “Add” or “Add File(s)” button (the exact label may vary) and select one or more MKV files. You can usually add a batch of files to convert them in one run.
- Confirm the files appear in the conversion list with their input details (filename, duration, resolution).
Step 2 — Choose MP4 as the output format
- Locate the output format or profile dropdown/menu.
- Select MP4 as the container. Many OJOsoft versions provide MP4 presets like “MP4 — H.264 + AAC” or device-targeted presets (e.g., “MP4 for iPhone”). Choose the preset that matches your target device or choose a general MP4/H.264 profile for broad compatibility.
Step 3 — Set codec and quality settings for speed and size
For fast conversion with good quality, use these recommendations:
- Video codec: H.264 (x264) for best compatibility. If speed is higher priority and you have less strict compatibility needs, some converters offer faster hardware-accelerated codecs (e.g., NVENC for NVIDIA GPUs or Quick Sync for Intel). If OJOsoft exposes hardware acceleration, enable it.
- Resolution: keep the original resolution to avoid re-scaling, unless you need smaller output (e.g., downscale 1080p to 720p to save time and space).
- Bitrate vs. CRF: if the interface offers a constant rate factor (CRF) or quality slider, choose a moderate value (CRF ~ 20–23 for H.264). If only bitrate is available, choose a bitrate close to the original to preserve quality (e.g., 3–6 Mbps for 720p; 6–12 Mbps for 1080p).
- Audio codec: AAC with 128–192 kbps for stereo; higher if you need better audio fidelity.
- Container settings: ensure the output extension is .mp4.
Step 4 — Use hardware acceleration and multi-thread settings (if available)
- Check OJOsoft’s settings or preferences for hardware acceleration options. Enable NVIDIA NVENC, Intel Quick Sync, or AMD VCE if supported and you have compatible hardware — this can dramatically speed up encoding.
- Set CPU threads/cores usage to automatic or the maximum safe value for faster processing. Leaving some cores free can keep your system responsive.
Step 5 — Batch convert and output destination
- Choose an output folder where converted MP4 files will be saved.
- If you converted multiple files, enable batch conversion/queue and confirm output filenames to prevent overwrites.
- Optionally enable post-conversion actions (like “open output folder” or “shut down after conversion”).
Step 6 — Start conversion and monitor progress
- Click the “Convert” or “Start” button.
- Watch the progress bar and estimated time. For long jobs, leave your PC plugged in and avoid running heavy background tasks.
- If conversion fails on a file, check logs or error messages; common issues are corrupted input files or unsupported codecs inside the MKV.
Speed and quality optimization checklist
- Enable hardware acceleration (NVENC/Quick Sync) if supported.
- Use device or MP4/H.264 presets instead of custom high-quality single-pass settings if speed is essential.
- Avoid unnecessary re-scaling — keep original resolution.
- For faster but slightly lower-quality output, raise the CRF value or lower bitrate. For best quality, lower CRF or increase bitrate.
- Convert audio to AAC with moderate bitrate to minimize processing overhead.
- Close other CPU/GPU-intensive applications during conversion.
Troubleshooting common problems
- Conversion stalls or crashes: update OJOsoft to the latest version, update GPU drivers, and ensure the MKV file isn’t corrupted.
- No sound in output MP4: verify audio stream was selected and AAC is chosen; some MKV files have multiple audio tracks—select the correct one.
- Subtitle issues: embedded MKV subtitles (e.g., SSA/ASS) may not be supported in MP4 container; either burn subtitles into the video (if OJOsoft supports it) or export them as separate .srt and mux them with a compatible player.
- Output file too large: lower bitrate or resolution, or increase CRF.
Alternatives and when to use them
If OJOsoft lacks features you need (e.g., advanced subtitle handling, HEVC with specific bitrate control, or better batch controls), consider alternatives like HandBrake (free), FFmpeg (powerful command line), or commercial tools with GPU acceleration and preset libraries.
Comparison (quick view):
Feature | OJOsoft MKV Converter | HandBrake | FFmpeg |
---|---|---|---|
Ease of use | High | Medium | Low (CLI) |
Hardware acceleration | Depends on version | Yes | Yes |
Subtitle handling | Basic | Good | Excellent |
Batch processing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cost | Usually paid | Free | Free |
Example: quick FFmpeg command (if you prefer command line)
ffmpeg -i input.mkv -c:v libx264 -preset fast -crf 22 -c:a aac -b:a 160k output.mp4
This gives a balance of speed and quality similar to an OJOsoft fast H.264 preset.
Final tips
- Keep original files until you confirm the MP4s play correctly on your target devices.
- Test one short clip first to confirm settings before batch converting large libraries.
- Back up important videos before processing if they’re the only copies.
If you want, tell me your OS and whether you have an NVIDIA/Intel/AMD GPU and I’ll suggest the exact OJOsoft settings for fastest conversion.
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