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How to convert video files: A guide for video creators and reviewers

4 min read

Mar 24, 2025

Why convert video files?

Converting video files can offer a variety of advantages—from reducing file size by compressing them, to upscaling your video files to enhance their quality. You might simply be making your files easier to share by converting them to a different video file type. But there’s more to it than that.

Improves compatibility

By converting your video files, you can ensure your videos can work across platforms (Facebook, YouTube, etc.) and devices. For example, you could convert WMV, WebM or FLV files to widely-used formats like MP4 or MOV.

Reduces file size

Some video file types take up more space than others, and can take longer to upload. That’s far from ideal when you’re out on a shoot and need to upload a brand new set of high-quality videos to the cloud. Converting your video files to files of a smaller size reduces the time needed to upload or store videos, simply by compressing them.

Makes it easier to share video files

Although there are ways to share large files quickly, it tends to be easier and quicker to share smaller files with others. With the right software, you can convert and deliver video files to fit any specifications—whether you’re sending it to be reviewed on a Mac, Windows, iPhone or Android device.

A view of files and videos that are saved in a Dropbox folder which can be easily shared.

How to convert video files with Dropbox

  • Select the video file you want to convert: Dropbox supports converting from a variety of video formats, including AVI, MP4, MOV, MPEG, and MKV. Once your video is saved in Dropbox, right-click on the video, and choose Save as. You’ll be offered the choice to save in a variety of video formats.

  • Choose the desired output format: Dropbox supports a wide range of formats, including MOV and MP4 for video, and MP3, WAV and M4A for audio.

  • Start the conversion process: Once the video format is clicked, Dropbox will start converting your video file. The conversion time will vary depending on the size of the file and the selected output format.
     

You can also use Dropbox to convert video files on your mobile device. Simply open the Dropbox app, select the video file you want to convert, and tap the "Convert" button.

8 features that make converting video files simple with Dropbox

Dropbox does more than store your video files. It can be the home of all your video projects—from automatically uploading files from your favourite video editing apps, to reviewing your videos, and getting feedback. And there are plenty more features that make converting videos with Dropbox a no-brainer.

1. A secure, all-in-one solution

Receive, upload, and convert video files all in one place, safely organized in your cloud storage. There’s no need to mess around with ads and other hassle from free video converters.

2. No need to switch between multiple apps

Dropbox integrates with professional video editing tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, so you can do everything in one place.

3. Easy sharing and distribution

Share converted files with anyone, even if they don't have a Dropbox account.

4. Supports a wide range of video formats

Convert videos to any popular format, including MOV and MP4.

5. Maintains video quality during conversion

Dropbox uses state-of-the-art technology to ensure your videos look their best after conversion.

6. Simple settings for resolution, and more

Easily adjust the resolution, bitrate, and other settings of your converted videos.

7. Video editing features

Trim, crop, or apply filters, without needing to export your video each time.

Take the hassle out of converting your video files, with Dropbox

Dropbox simplifies the process of converting video files, allowing you to handle different file types seamlessly. In moments, you can easily convert videos to any popular format, maintain video quality, and share your converted files with anyone.

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