5 Best MPEG to MP4 Converters for High-Quality Conversion

Part 1. What is MKV?

Short for Matroska Video, MKV is an open-source multimedia container format. It is known for its flexibility in handling various media elements. Unlike common video formats, MKV can hold multiple video, audio, subtitle, and even metadata tracks within a single file. This means that a single MKV can contain several audio tracks for different languages, multiple subtitle options, chapter points, and metadata. Designed as a universal format, it supports high-quality video codecs like H.264 and H.265. This makes it a popular choice for HD and UHD content.

However, certain players can struggle with MKV files. Not all players support the various video, audio, and subtitle codecs that can be embedded in an MKV file. This can lead to playback issues like lag, stuttering, or even a complete playback error. Furthermore, the large size of high-resolution MKV files demands processing power and memory. Without optimized support, older or less capable media players might experience performance issues. These challenges make it essential to use a player specifically designed for MKV playback.

Here’s a quick reference for MKV’s unique features:

High-Quality Video and Audio Support

MKV files support HD and UHD video, including 4K and 8K resolutions. The format can contain video encoded with different codecs, like H.264, H.265, or VP9. Not to mention, these video codecs are commonly used for HD and UHD content.

Multiple Audio and Subtitle Tracks

MKV files can store multiple audio and subtitle tracks within the same file. This makes it ideal for multilingual content. For good measure, it allows its user to switch between languages or subtitle options without needing separate files.

Rich Metadata Storage

MKV files allow the inclusion of extensive metadata within the file. Some of which are chapter points, cover art, video titles, and more. This makes navigating through lengthy videos more convenient and enables players to display enriched information about the file’s content.

Efficient Compression without Quality Loss

MKV files use advanced compression algorithms, storing large amounts of data in a small file size without losing quality. This is particularly beneficial for archiving purposes, as it keeps the original quality while reducing storage needs.

Part 2. Best 3 MKV Players for Windows

Blu-ray Player

The Blu-ray Player, picked by 4Videosoft, is an adaptable MKV file format player. Its name might mislead you, but it actually goes beyond playing Blu-ray content. This Blu-ray Player supports playback of nearly all video formats, like MKV, MP4, MOV, and more.

Apart from standard and high-definition videos, it can also handle higher-resolution movies like 1080i, 1080p, and 4K. Best of all, it supports advanced audio effects for a more enjoyable viewing experience. This includes AAC, TrueHD, Dolby, DTS, DTS-HD, and surround sound 5.1 and 7.1 channels. On top of that, you can manage your files by creating a playlist.

What to Expect With Blu-ray Player:

• High-quality audio support, such as Dolby, DTS, DTS-HD, etc.

• Customizable playback settings, like video, audio, and subtitle tracks.

• Support Blu-ray discs, Folders, and ISO files playback in high quality.

• Handles the majority of video and audio formats, like MKV, MP4, MOV, etc.

Reason to Use:

• It delivers high-quality video displays.

• It can play both physical and digital media.

• It can handle large videos like MKV without buffering.

Reason Not to Use:

• It requires a subscription for full access.

VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is a top choice cross-platform media player to play MKV. It is known for its extensive support for digital media playback without needing extra codecs. This media player is lightweight and accessible on most systems, like Windows, Mac, and Linux. Other than that, it can be used to convert MKV to MP4, stream and download online content, and more. Now, a small heads up. There are instances where VLC stutters when playing high-resolution videos.

What to Expect With VLC Media Player:

• Plays almost any file format, including MKV, MP4, AVI, etc.

• Supports standard playback speed adjustment, from slower to faster.

• High-definition video playback support of up to 8K with no quality loss.

• Advanced subtitle searching and downloading from online repositories.

Reason to Use:

• It is entirely free and open-source.

• It offers playback customization options.

• It supports countless video and audio playback.

Reason Not to Use:

• It crashes occasionally on certain systems.

• It cannot play higher-resolution videos by default.

KMPlayer

KMPlayer is a feature-rich MKV player for Windows 10 and mobile, like Android and iOS. This media player can play high quality videos with support to commonly used video formats. Options include MKV, AVI, TS, MP4, VOB, and higher resolutions like 4K, UHD, 60fps, etc. Along with that, KMPlayer includes an HD screen recorder for capturing video highlights during playback. However, it requires high-end hardware for optimal playback of high-quality videos.

What to Expect With KMPlayer:

• Play almost high-quality video content, like 4K, 8K, UHD, etc.

• Includes screen recorder for capturing highlights from the scene.

• Supports downloading online videos from various sources, like YT.

• Optimized for low-end computers through hardware acceleration function.

Reason to Use:

• It supports 3D and VR playback.

• It has easy-to-understand control playback.

• It allows downloading videos from online sources.

Reason Not to Use:

• It requires installing additional software.

• It interrupts video playback by showing ads.

Part 3. Best 3 MKV Players for Mac

Elmedia Video Player

Elmedia Video Player is a free and dedicated MKV player on MacBook Pro. It requires no additional codecs and plugins to playback various video and audio files. Be it MKV, MP4, AVI, FLV, WMV, etc., Elmedia Video Player can play them smoothly. If you want more advanced features, the media player offers a pro version. But here’s a thing. Playing higher-resolution content can result in occasional lags and, worst, crashes.

What to Expect With Elmedia Player:

• Features a built-in subtitle search with opensubtitles.com.

• Streams local files from various devices, like Smart TVs, Roku, etc.

• Adjustable video effects during playback, like brightness, contrast, etc.

• Supports looping from any portion of the video and audio file continuously.

Reason to Use:

• It allows syncing subtitles with the video.

• It supports streaming videos on various devices.

• It can deliver smooth playback for standard videos.

Reason Not to Use:

• It is exclusively designed for Mac systems only.

• Its advanced features are only available in the pro version.

MPlayerX

MPlayerX is a .mkv player optimized for Mac operating systems with a simple design. In addition to MKV files, it can handle other video formats without requiring additional codecs. What makes MPLayerX unique is that it has a smart playback feature. This added feature can automatically resume the video playback from where you left off. Please take note of this: MPlayerX includes malware apps during installation, which may compromise your system.

What to Expect With MPlayerX:

• Features automatic subtitle detection and loading.

• Efficiently handles high-definition videos, including 1080p.

• Allows direct playback for any external player like smart TVs.

• Supports gesture controls, like controlling volume and playback speed.

Reason to Use:

• It has touchpad gesture support.

• It boasts a straightforward interface.

• It features an automatic subtitle detection.

Reason Not to Use:

• It encounters playback freezes frequently.

• It might not be compatible with newer macOS versions.

SMPlayer

SMPlayer is a free media player with built-in codec support and can play all media files. In other words, you can use this multi-format media player as a Mac MKV viewer. Similar to MPlayerX, it can remember the settings of all the files you play. This means you can go back to the portion you left and continue exactly where you paused. However, there’s a catch. SMPlayer contains unwanted programs when you download it on your system.

What to Expect With SMPlayer:

• Remember where you left off, even if you close the program.

• HD and UHD playback, delivering clear, high-resolution videos.

• Comes with built-in codecs, eliminating external codec installations.

• Includes audio/video equalizers for controlling sound and picture quality.

Reason to Use:

• It is completely free to use.

• Starters can easily navigate it.

• It handles various media formats and codecs.

Reason Not to Use:

• Its interface design is extremely dated.

• It triggers virus protection, meaning it is not safe.

Conclusion

Choosing the right MKV player is essential to experiencing the full benefits of the MKV format without playback issues or quality loss. High-quality media players provide compatibility with various codecs and support high-definition video, delivering an immersive viewing experience. However, some players may struggle with the demanding features of MKV. With our top selections, you can ensure efficient playback of MKV files. By using a reliable MKV player, like Blu-ray Player, you can enjoy your media seamlessly.