How to Convert MP4 Files to MJPEG?

Quick Navigation

1. Using VLC Media Player

2. Using XMedia Recode

3. Using Online Services

======FAQs======

MP4 is a widely-used video format known for its high quality and compression efficiency. MJPEG (M-JPEG or Motion JPEG), on the other hand, is a sequence of JPEG images, playing at a constant rate to form a video. MJPEG is preferred in certain fields due to its simplicity and ease of editing. Next, I'll show you three methods to convert MP4 files into MJPEG using free software tools.

Way 1. Using VLC Media Player

VLC is more than just a media player for all platforms, it's a versatile tool for media conversion. Here's how to use it to convert MP4 to MJPEG:

Open VLC media player and go to "Media" > "Convert / Save".
Click the "+ Add" button and select the MP4 file you want to convert.
Click the "Convert / Save" button at the bottom to proceed.
Since there is no default MJPEG profile, click the last icon to create a new profile.
Name your profile, then choose "MJPEG" under "Encapsulation".
Click "Create" to save the MJPEG profile.
Select your new MJPEG profile from the drop-down menu.
Choose a destination folder to save the output file, and click "Start".

That's it! VLC will now change the MP4 into an MJPEG-encoded video file in AVI extension. The file size will drastically increase compared to the MP4 source.

Way 2. Using XMedia Recode

XMedia Recode is another excellent tool for the conversion. As a dedicated free video encoding program, it works much better than VLC. Here are the steps:

Launch XMedia Recode and click "Open File" to import your MP4 file.
Under "Format", choose either "MJpeg Raw Video" or a format like AVI, MOV, MP4, or MKV.
If choosing the latter, navigate to the "Video" tab and select "Motion JPEG" as the codec.
Customize encoding options if needed under the Video/Audio tabs.
Choose a directory at the bottom to save your output file.
Click "Add to queue" and then the "Encode" button to start the conversion process.

XMedia Recode provides advanced configuration options and batch processing features to automate converting multiple MP4 files into MJPEG or other formats.

Free MP4 to MJPEG Converter - XMedia Recode

Way 3. Using Online Services

For those who prefer an online solution, Convertio and AnyConv are reliable options. These services are straightforward:

Upload your MP4 file.
Choose MJPEG as the output format.
Modify parameters if needed.
Start converting MP4 files to MJPEG online.
Download it to computer when finished.

When using any online service, be mindful of your internet speed, website file size limits, and privacy policies regarding data/file storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the standard file extension for MJPEG?

A: MJPEG Raw Video can use the .mjpeg or .mjpg file extensions. MJPEG can also be contained within common video file containers like AVI, MOV, MP4, MKV, it uses those standard extensions.

Q2: How much larger are MJPEG files compared to MP4?

A: MJPEG files are much larger, often 5-10x the size of a compressed MP4 for the same duration and resolution of video.

Q3: What players and editing tools support MJPEG video?

A: Most modern players and NLEs come preinstalled with codecs needed for MJPEG. But some older operating systems or apps may require downloading additional codec first.

Wrapping Up

That's how you can easily convert your MP4 files to MJPEG. Whether you choose VLC, XMedia Recode, or an online service, each offers its unique advantages. With the right tool, you can easily get the job done for various personal, professional, and academic purposes.