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How to Conver MP4 Videos to MOV Files Online and Offline

While MP4 is a widely used video format, MOV is more popular among the Apple ecosystem. However, they are completely different video file formats. It means that you cannot simply change the file extension to convert your video files. In other words, you need a tool to change your video file format to MOV. This guide identifies the proven methods to help you convert your MP4 to MOV on Windows, macOS, and online.

Part 1: MP4 vs MOV - What's the Difference

Both MP4 and MOV are popular digital video formats. Before choosing a suitable one, you'd better understand the differences. Therefore, we compare MP4 and MOV to help you pick the right one.

MP4 stands for MPEG-4. It is a digital container and one of the most widely used video formats. It was developed for sharing video content on the internet.

MOV is another digital video file format developed by Apple and primarily used by the QuickTime framework. It is designed to store video, audio, and text together.

MP4 MOV
Compression Lossy compression Lossless compression
Compatibility Universal on any platform or device Tied to Apple’s ecosystem
File Size Small large
Multimedia Support H.264, H.265 Store video, audio, and text tracks
Quality Low High resolution
Use Cases Online streaming
Basic editing
Portable media
Professional editing
Video record on Apple products
Video playback on macOS

Part 2: Best Way to Convert MP4 to MOV Without Quality Loss

It is well known that converting video formats may damage output quality without the right tool. Fortunately, Apeaksoft Video Converter Ultimate can help you resolve this problem. It can change a video from MP4 to MOV without losing quality. The intuitive interface makes it easy to navigate.

The Best Way to Convert MP4 to MOV Without Quality Loss

1. Transform MP4 to MOV with one click.

2. Convert multiple video files at one time.

3. Protect video quality while converting format.

4. Support a wide range of video formats and codecs.

5. Offer bonus features, like a video editor and video enhancer.

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How to Convert MP4 to MOV Without Quality Loss

Step 1. Import MP4 files

Launch the best video converter for MP4 to MOV after you install it on your PC. There is another version for Mac users. Go to the Converter tab and click the Add Files menu to import MP4 files from your hard drive.

Home Interface

Step 2. Set output format

After videos load, click the format option to open the output dialog. Locate the Video tab, choose MOV on the sidebar, and pick a preset. If you want to change the bit rate and other options, click the Settings button.

Step 3. Convert MP4 to MOV

Next, click the Folder button at the bottom and set an output folder. Then, click the Convert All button to begin converting MP4 to MOV immediately.

Apeaksoft Video Converter

Part 3: Transform MP4 to MOV Using QuickTime

The built-in QuickTime Player is a simple way to convert a video from MP4 to MOV on macOS. This method can only process one video file at a time. Moreover, QuickTime Player cannot maintain your video quality.

PROS:
  • Transform MP4 to MOV on Mac for free.
  • Don't install any software.
  • General MOV files for Apple devices and apps.
CONS:
  • It can handle one MP4 at a time.
  • It lacks a video editing tool.
MP4 MOV Quicktime

Step 1. Run your QuickTime Player from the Applications folder.

Step 2. Go to the File menu on the top menu bar and choose Open File.

Step 3. Find an MP4 file on your hard disk and open it.

Step 4. After the video loads, go to the File menu and choose Export As.

Step 5. Pick a proper video resolution.

Step 6. By default, the video file is changed to MOV. Then, set an output folder in the Where option.

Step 7. Finally, click the Save button to change MP4 to MOV in QuickTime.

Part 4: Convert MP4 to MOV Format via iMovie

iMovie is another option to convert MP4 to MOV on your Mac computer or laptop. It is the pre-installed video editor on macOS. It can export a video file as MP4, MOV, M4V, or JPG without extra software.

PROS:
  • Convert MP4 to MOV quickly.
  • Free and easy to use.
  • Decide output quality.
CONS:
  • iMovie cannot convert multiple MP4 files at one time.
MP4 MOV iMovie

Step 1. Open iMovie, and create a new project or enter an exist project.

Step 2. Click Import Media and open an MP4 video.

Step 3. Edit the video.

Step 4. Then, go to the File menu, choose Share, and pick File.

Step 5. Select the desired Format and customize other options.

Step 6. Click Next, enter a file name, and click Save.

Part 5: Change MP4 to MOV in VLC

VLC Media Player is far more than a simple media player. It comes with bonus features, like transforming MP4 to MOV. VLC integrates a large codec package. Users don't need to install extra codecs. However, the output quality is a little poor.

PROS:
  • Change multiple MP4 files to MOV one time.
  • Support various video formats.
  • Play MOV and MP4.
  • Open source and free to use.
CONS:
  • It takes time to convert MP4 to MOV.
  • The output quality is not good.

Step 1. Open VLC on your desktop.

VLC Convert

Step 2. Go to the Media menu and choose Convert/Save.

Step 3. Click the Add button to import an MP4 video.

Step 4. Press the Convert/Save button to proceed.

Step 5. Choose MOV from the Profile option.

VLC MOV

Tips: If you cannot find MOV in the drop-down, click the Create new profile button. Add a profile name, select MP4/MOV, and click Create. Then, select the new profile from the drop-down.

Step 6. Set the output folder by hitting the Browse button.

Step 7. Click the Start button to begin changing MP4 to MOV format.

Part 6: Change Video from MP4 to MOV Online

Online video converters are another option to convert from MP4 to MOV. They don't ask you to install anything on your desktop. All you need is a browser and a stable internet connection. Of course, there are downsides, such as a file size limit. We use Online Video Converter as an example.

PROS:
  • Convert MP4 to MOV online.
  • Import MP4 from hard disks or cloud services.
  • Share MOV via URL.
CONS:
  • There is a file size limit.
  • It is slow.
Online Video Converter

Step 1. Visit https://video-converter.com/ in a browser.

Step 2. Click the Open file button to import MP4. You can upload videos up to 4GB at a time.

Step 3. Select mov as the output format and adjust the Resolution.

Step 4. Click the Convert button to begin changing MP4 to MOV online.

Step 5. When it is done, click the Download button or save to Google Drive or Dropbox.

Conclusion

Now, you should learn at least six methods to convert MP4 to MOV on Windows, macOS, and online. QuickTime Player and iMovie are the pre-installed ways for Mac users. VLC is a free video converter. Or you can use a reputable video converter. Apeaksoft Video Converter Ultimate is the best option for beginners and experienced users. The intuitive interface is easy to navigate. Plus, the built-in custom options and useful tools can generate the desired results.

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