Our take: A free, open-source encoder that converts almost any video to widely supported codecs, though it has no editing tools and lots of settings.
- Free, GPL
- Runs locally
- Windows, Mac, Linux
- Not tested by us yet
- ? China access — not tested yet
Checked before installing
Checked 28 Sep 2026 · from official pricing and help pages · not tested hands-on yet
PriceFree (open source)
OSWindows, Mac, Linux
AccountNot required
Your data: It is an installed app, so conversion happens entirely on your computer and files are not uploaded anywhere.
Data sheet
Every row shows how we know it
| Price | Free, open source Official |
|---|---|
| License | GPL Official |
| Purpose | Convert nearly any format to modern codecs Official |
| Latest version | 1.11.2 Official |
| OS | Windows, Mac, Linux Official |
| Access from China | — Not tested |
When to use it
Pick it to shrink large video files for phones or web uploads.
Before you use it
Presets change quality and file size a lot, so test on a short section before encoding a long video.
How to use it
- Download the installer for your OS from handbrake.fr.
- Open the video file or folder you want to convert.
- Choose a preset, set the destination and click Start Encode.
Alternatives
- Shotcut — Edit and export togetherOn-device
- CloudConvert — Convert on the web, no installCloud
Checked 28 Sep 2026 · compiled from official information, not yet tested by us. Found something outdated? Tell us. · HandBrake (official)