Video to MP4 converter: pick the resolution you need
MP4 is the video format that plays almost everywhere: phones, tablets, computers, smart TVs and most editing software. ClipZen converts the link of a video into an MP4 file and lets you choose the resolution, so you can balance picture quality against file size.
This page explains how the resolution choice works, what is inside the MP4 file ClipZen produces, and why the highest resolution is not always the best option.
How to convert a video to MP4
- Paste the video link on the ClipZen home page. The analysis starts by itself and lists the resolutions available for that video.
- Look at the estimated size next to each resolution. Choices that would exceed your account's size limit are shown as too large, or greyed out when a free account would allow them.
- Pick a resolution, or press the MP4 button for the best quality your level allows.
- When the progress bar reaches the end, download the file.
What is inside the MP4 file
ClipZen produces MP4 files with H.264 video and AAC audio, the combination with the widest hardware support. When the source already uses these codecs the conversion is quick; otherwise the video is re-encoded, which takes longer. The file is prepared for streaming-style playback, so it starts playing before it is fully loaded in most players.
Which resolution should you pick?
| Resolution | Good for |
|---|---|
| 144p – 240p | Very small files, tiny screens, slow connections |
| 360p – 480p | Phones and quick sharing; smallest sensible size for watching |
| 720p | Laptops, tablets and TVs at a reasonable file size |
| 1080p | Large screens and editing, with much bigger files |
A higher resolution only helps if the screen is large enough to show it and the original video actually has it. The list in ClipZen only shows resolutions that exist for your link, up to what your account level allows.
Why can't I choose 1080p?
- The video itself may not be available in 1080p.
- Your account level may cap the resolution or the file size. Registered accounts have higher limits than visitors, and the limits are visible on the home page.
- The estimated file may be larger than the maximum size allowed.
If you only need the sound, converting to MP3 produces a much smaller file. Not sure which one to pick? Read MP3 vs MP4.
Ready to convert a link?
Paste the link of a video you have the right to convert, choose MP3 or MP4, and download the file.
Open the converterThe converter itself is currently in French: the buttons are named MP3, MP4 and “Choisir la qualité ou le format” (choose quality or format).
Frequently asked questions
Which codecs does the MP4 use?
H.264 for video and AAC for audio, which play on nearly every phone, TV and computer.
Can I see the file size before converting?
Yes. ClipZen shows an estimated size for each resolution when the source provides the information.
Does ClipZen convert videos I have saved on my computer?
No. It works from online video links only.
Is it legal to convert any video to MP4?
Only convert videos you own, that are in the public domain or under an open licence, or that you have permission to use. Respect the terms of the platform and copyright law.
Related guides
- MP3 vs MP4: what is the difference?MP3 is audio only; MP4 is a video container. Learn the differences, typical file sizes and which format to pick for music, podcasts, lectures or video.
- Video to MP3 converter: extract the audio from a linkPaste a video link, choose 128–320 kbps and download the audio as MP3. Free to try, no software to install, for content you have the right to convert.
- Why won't my video convert? Common errors and fixesWhy a video link fails to convert to MP3 or MP4: private videos, DRM, live streams, playlists, duration or size limits, region locks and busy servers.