Updated Videopad Review A Detailed Look at Its Video Editing Capabilities

Updated Videopad Review A Detailed Look at Its Video Editing Capabilities

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Videopad Review: A Detailed Look at Its Video Editing Capabilities

There are a variety of video editors available for home video editors, but VideoPad editor offers the basic tools needed by home movie makers. In addition to being easy to learn and use, it has many additional features that don’t interfere with your work but are there to assist if you need them.

videopad-interface

There are multiple versions of this multiplatform video editor at different price points, in addition to a free version. How can you go wrong? This is one of the reasons why VideoPad is one of the best free video editing software programs.

VideoPad Video Editor is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and supports a number of video import and export options. This nch video editor comes with a free basic plan where you don’t have to pay anything, so you can try to see how it works. In this article, we will do a quick review of this video editing software so that you have a better understanding of its features.

Features of VideoPad

The features list of videopad video editor is as follows:

  • You can share videos with your family and friends
  • Facebook and YouTube videos can be uploaded directly
  • Multiple resolutions for exporting movies
  • Burn DVDs and Blu-rays
  • You can save the file to your PSP, iPod, iPhone, or 3GP mobile phone
  • Visual effects and video transitions
  • Effects models for visual effects
  • Editing 3D videos
  • 2D to 3D stereoscopic conversion
  • 360 video overlays and texts
  • Optimization of videos
  • Reducing camera shake
  • Sequences can be enhanced with photos and digital images
  • Tools for audio production
  • Mix music and import it
  • A library of sound effects
  • Any camera can be used to create videos

Ease of use and interface

With VideoPad’s easy-to-use interface and well-organized conventions, movie makers of any skill level can become familiar with its basics in no time at all. You will become fluent in no time at all in opening and closing windows, stringing clips together, and adding narration, transitions, and text to create a powerful visual presentation. Adding video, audio, and still, photo assets to the files pane will put them on the timeline and allow you to assemble your story.

Videos and still images are organized into bins by the app, ensuring they don’t get confused on the timeline, which speeds up the workflow, especially for newcomers.

The app uses menus and can be dragged and dropped, so a single objective can be accomplished in different ways. You can control all functions from within the application frame, or dockable panels can be used to get a closer look at what needs to be done. A permanent reorganization of the workspace would be appreciated.

Videopad Video Editing Features

VideoPad is the perfect balance between too much and not enough. Although there are not many options, it offers a reasonable selection of transitions for moving between clips and images, as well as a selection of filters to give them a unique look. In addition to editing 360-degree video, video stabilization is another helpful feature.

Each filter can be previewed with a click before applying it, and You can combine several to create a custom effect or template for reuse. You can also adjust their length via menus.

A video can be enhanced with transitions, visual effects, overlays, and text using VideoPad. Also included are some basic audio tools and a library of sound effects and atmospheric background music. There are a number of features that allow you to optimize videos, including color correction, adding digital images, adding subtitles, and adjusting the speed of playback. With its video stabilization feature, you can reduce camera shake, and the high-end version supports special effect plugins, but only for Windows.

Videopad Audio Editing Features

VideoPad offers a limited set of audio tools, but it does allow you to mix multiple audio tracks, music, and narration to create a movie soundtrack. A video clip’s audio can be faded, mixed, and adjusted for volume, but if you want to go further, you’ll need an external mixer or editor. From VideoPad’s main menu, you can download NCH’s own WavePad.

While the text-to-speech features always sounded false, you can record narration directly within the program. There is a great idea in having voice recognition for subtitles, which is only available on the Windows version. However, the implementation falls short of expectations. Although the video was clearly spoken in a quiet environment, it automatically failed to translate into subtitles.

Videopad Content Sharing features

Video creators who publish to YouTube or other social media platforms can use the software because it allows them to share videos directly to platforms such as Dropbox, Flickr, Google Drive, and Vimeo. To avoid unnecessary data sharing, you can save videos to your desktop and upload them yourself.

Is VideoPad worth buying?

Although the VideoPad video editor free version is somewhat limited, it functions as a free trial to see if you like it enough to upgrade. Apps that are easy to use and have a simple interface can help convert a free user to a paying customer, and VideoPad has a strong claim to your money thanks to its simplicity and light hardware requirements.

Our Recommendation

As a beginner, you may be looking to use Videopad free, but when it comes to features, it just falls short compared to modern video editors. So, we recommend you use our Filmora X video editor. Filmora video editor is free to download, so you can try out all the features without paying a penny. However free version will have a watermark when you export the video. You will have to purchase a subscription to get rid of the watermark. If you compare the features and user-friendliness of both these video editors, then Filmora definitely stands out by all means. In addition to its feature richness, it also has a user-friendly interface that beginners can easily adapt to. So, don’t waste your time and give it a try right now.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful engine, intuitive interface, and thousands of effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

There are multiple versions of this multiplatform video editor at different price points, in addition to a free version. How can you go wrong? This is one of the reasons why VideoPad is one of the best free video editing software programs.

VideoPad Video Editor is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and supports a number of video import and export options. This nch video editor comes with a free basic plan where you don’t have to pay anything, so you can try to see how it works. In this article, we will do a quick review of this video editing software so that you have a better understanding of its features.

Features of VideoPad

The features list of videopad video editor is as follows:

  • You can share videos with your family and friends
  • Facebook and YouTube videos can be uploaded directly
  • Multiple resolutions for exporting movies
  • Burn DVDs and Blu-rays
  • You can save the file to your PSP, iPod, iPhone, or 3GP mobile phone
  • Visual effects and video transitions
  • Effects models for visual effects
  • Editing 3D videos
  • 2D to 3D stereoscopic conversion
  • 360 video overlays and texts
  • Optimization of videos
  • Reducing camera shake
  • Sequences can be enhanced with photos and digital images
  • Tools for audio production
  • Mix music and import it
  • A library of sound effects
  • Any camera can be used to create videos

Ease of use and interface

With VideoPad’s easy-to-use interface and well-organized conventions, movie makers of any skill level can become familiar with its basics in no time at all. You will become fluent in no time at all in opening and closing windows, stringing clips together, and adding narration, transitions, and text to create a powerful visual presentation. Adding video, audio, and still, photo assets to the files pane will put them on the timeline and allow you to assemble your story.

Videos and still images are organized into bins by the app, ensuring they don’t get confused on the timeline, which speeds up the workflow, especially for newcomers.

The app uses menus and can be dragged and dropped, so a single objective can be accomplished in different ways. You can control all functions from within the application frame, or dockable panels can be used to get a closer look at what needs to be done. A permanent reorganization of the workspace would be appreciated.

Videopad Video Editing Features

VideoPad is the perfect balance between too much and not enough. Although there are not many options, it offers a reasonable selection of transitions for moving between clips and images, as well as a selection of filters to give them a unique look. In addition to editing 360-degree video, video stabilization is another helpful feature.

Each filter can be previewed with a click before applying it, and You can combine several to create a custom effect or template for reuse. You can also adjust their length via menus.

A video can be enhanced with transitions, visual effects, overlays, and text using VideoPad. Also included are some basic audio tools and a library of sound effects and atmospheric background music. There are a number of features that allow you to optimize videos, including color correction, adding digital images, adding subtitles, and adjusting the speed of playback. With its video stabilization feature, you can reduce camera shake, and the high-end version supports special effect plugins, but only for Windows.

Videopad Audio Editing Features

VideoPad offers a limited set of audio tools, but it does allow you to mix multiple audio tracks, music, and narration to create a movie soundtrack. A video clip’s audio can be faded, mixed, and adjusted for volume, but if you want to go further, you’ll need an external mixer or editor. From VideoPad’s main menu, you can download NCH’s own WavePad.

While the text-to-speech features always sounded false, you can record narration directly within the program. There is a great idea in having voice recognition for subtitles, which is only available on the Windows version. However, the implementation falls short of expectations. Although the video was clearly spoken in a quiet environment, it automatically failed to translate into subtitles.

Videopad Content Sharing features

Video creators who publish to YouTube or other social media platforms can use the software because it allows them to share videos directly to platforms such as Dropbox, Flickr, Google Drive, and Vimeo. To avoid unnecessary data sharing, you can save videos to your desktop and upload them yourself.

Is VideoPad worth buying?

Although the VideoPad video editor free version is somewhat limited, it functions as a free trial to see if you like it enough to upgrade. Apps that are easy to use and have a simple interface can help convert a free user to a paying customer, and VideoPad has a strong claim to your money thanks to its simplicity and light hardware requirements.

Our Recommendation

As a beginner, you may be looking to use Videopad free, but when it comes to features, it just falls short compared to modern video editors. So, we recommend you use our Filmora X video editor. Filmora video editor is free to download, so you can try out all the features without paying a penny. However free version will have a watermark when you export the video. You will have to purchase a subscription to get rid of the watermark. If you compare the features and user-friendliness of both these video editors, then Filmora definitely stands out by all means. In addition to its feature richness, it also has a user-friendly interface that beginners can easily adapt to. So, don’t waste your time and give it a try right now.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful engine, intuitive interface, and thousands of effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

There are multiple versions of this multiplatform video editor at different price points, in addition to a free version. How can you go wrong? This is one of the reasons why VideoPad is one of the best free video editing software programs.

VideoPad Video Editor is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and supports a number of video import and export options. This nch video editor comes with a free basic plan where you don’t have to pay anything, so you can try to see how it works. In this article, we will do a quick review of this video editing software so that you have a better understanding of its features.

Features of VideoPad

The features list of videopad video editor is as follows:

  • You can share videos with your family and friends
  • Facebook and YouTube videos can be uploaded directly
  • Multiple resolutions for exporting movies
  • Burn DVDs and Blu-rays
  • You can save the file to your PSP, iPod, iPhone, or 3GP mobile phone
  • Visual effects and video transitions
  • Effects models for visual effects
  • Editing 3D videos
  • 2D to 3D stereoscopic conversion
  • 360 video overlays and texts
  • Optimization of videos
  • Reducing camera shake
  • Sequences can be enhanced with photos and digital images
  • Tools for audio production
  • Mix music and import it
  • A library of sound effects
  • Any camera can be used to create videos

Ease of use and interface

With VideoPad’s easy-to-use interface and well-organized conventions, movie makers of any skill level can become familiar with its basics in no time at all. You will become fluent in no time at all in opening and closing windows, stringing clips together, and adding narration, transitions, and text to create a powerful visual presentation. Adding video, audio, and still, photo assets to the files pane will put them on the timeline and allow you to assemble your story.

Videos and still images are organized into bins by the app, ensuring they don’t get confused on the timeline, which speeds up the workflow, especially for newcomers.

The app uses menus and can be dragged and dropped, so a single objective can be accomplished in different ways. You can control all functions from within the application frame, or dockable panels can be used to get a closer look at what needs to be done. A permanent reorganization of the workspace would be appreciated.

Videopad Video Editing Features

VideoPad is the perfect balance between too much and not enough. Although there are not many options, it offers a reasonable selection of transitions for moving between clips and images, as well as a selection of filters to give them a unique look. In addition to editing 360-degree video, video stabilization is another helpful feature.

Each filter can be previewed with a click before applying it, and You can combine several to create a custom effect or template for reuse. You can also adjust their length via menus.

A video can be enhanced with transitions, visual effects, overlays, and text using VideoPad. Also included are some basic audio tools and a library of sound effects and atmospheric background music. There are a number of features that allow you to optimize videos, including color correction, adding digital images, adding subtitles, and adjusting the speed of playback. With its video stabilization feature, you can reduce camera shake, and the high-end version supports special effect plugins, but only for Windows.

Videopad Audio Editing Features

VideoPad offers a limited set of audio tools, but it does allow you to mix multiple audio tracks, music, and narration to create a movie soundtrack. A video clip’s audio can be faded, mixed, and adjusted for volume, but if you want to go further, you’ll need an external mixer or editor. From VideoPad’s main menu, you can download NCH’s own WavePad.

While the text-to-speech features always sounded false, you can record narration directly within the program. There is a great idea in having voice recognition for subtitles, which is only available on the Windows version. However, the implementation falls short of expectations. Although the video was clearly spoken in a quiet environment, it automatically failed to translate into subtitles.

Videopad Content Sharing features

Video creators who publish to YouTube or other social media platforms can use the software because it allows them to share videos directly to platforms such as Dropbox, Flickr, Google Drive, and Vimeo. To avoid unnecessary data sharing, you can save videos to your desktop and upload them yourself.

Is VideoPad worth buying?

Although the VideoPad video editor free version is somewhat limited, it functions as a free trial to see if you like it enough to upgrade. Apps that are easy to use and have a simple interface can help convert a free user to a paying customer, and VideoPad has a strong claim to your money thanks to its simplicity and light hardware requirements.

Our Recommendation

As a beginner, you may be looking to use Videopad free, but when it comes to features, it just falls short compared to modern video editors. So, we recommend you use our Filmora X video editor. Filmora video editor is free to download, so you can try out all the features without paying a penny. However free version will have a watermark when you export the video. You will have to purchase a subscription to get rid of the watermark. If you compare the features and user-friendliness of both these video editors, then Filmora definitely stands out by all means. In addition to its feature richness, it also has a user-friendly interface that beginners can easily adapt to. So, don’t waste your time and give it a try right now.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful engine, intuitive interface, and thousands of effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

There are multiple versions of this multiplatform video editor at different price points, in addition to a free version. How can you go wrong? This is one of the reasons why VideoPad is one of the best free video editing software programs.

VideoPad Video Editor is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and supports a number of video import and export options. This nch video editor comes with a free basic plan where you don’t have to pay anything, so you can try to see how it works. In this article, we will do a quick review of this video editing software so that you have a better understanding of its features.

Features of VideoPad

The features list of videopad video editor is as follows:

  • You can share videos with your family and friends
  • Facebook and YouTube videos can be uploaded directly
  • Multiple resolutions for exporting movies
  • Burn DVDs and Blu-rays
  • You can save the file to your PSP, iPod, iPhone, or 3GP mobile phone
  • Visual effects and video transitions
  • Effects models for visual effects
  • Editing 3D videos
  • 2D to 3D stereoscopic conversion
  • 360 video overlays and texts
  • Optimization of videos
  • Reducing camera shake
  • Sequences can be enhanced with photos and digital images
  • Tools for audio production
  • Mix music and import it
  • A library of sound effects
  • Any camera can be used to create videos

Ease of use and interface

With VideoPad’s easy-to-use interface and well-organized conventions, movie makers of any skill level can become familiar with its basics in no time at all. You will become fluent in no time at all in opening and closing windows, stringing clips together, and adding narration, transitions, and text to create a powerful visual presentation. Adding video, audio, and still, photo assets to the files pane will put them on the timeline and allow you to assemble your story.

Videos and still images are organized into bins by the app, ensuring they don’t get confused on the timeline, which speeds up the workflow, especially for newcomers.

The app uses menus and can be dragged and dropped, so a single objective can be accomplished in different ways. You can control all functions from within the application frame, or dockable panels can be used to get a closer look at what needs to be done. A permanent reorganization of the workspace would be appreciated.

Videopad Video Editing Features

VideoPad is the perfect balance between too much and not enough. Although there are not many options, it offers a reasonable selection of transitions for moving between clips and images, as well as a selection of filters to give them a unique look. In addition to editing 360-degree video, video stabilization is another helpful feature.

Each filter can be previewed with a click before applying it, and You can combine several to create a custom effect or template for reuse. You can also adjust their length via menus.

A video can be enhanced with transitions, visual effects, overlays, and text using VideoPad. Also included are some basic audio tools and a library of sound effects and atmospheric background music. There are a number of features that allow you to optimize videos, including color correction, adding digital images, adding subtitles, and adjusting the speed of playback. With its video stabilization feature, you can reduce camera shake, and the high-end version supports special effect plugins, but only for Windows.

Videopad Audio Editing Features

VideoPad offers a limited set of audio tools, but it does allow you to mix multiple audio tracks, music, and narration to create a movie soundtrack. A video clip’s audio can be faded, mixed, and adjusted for volume, but if you want to go further, you’ll need an external mixer or editor. From VideoPad’s main menu, you can download NCH’s own WavePad.

While the text-to-speech features always sounded false, you can record narration directly within the program. There is a great idea in having voice recognition for subtitles, which is only available on the Windows version. However, the implementation falls short of expectations. Although the video was clearly spoken in a quiet environment, it automatically failed to translate into subtitles.

Videopad Content Sharing features

Video creators who publish to YouTube or other social media platforms can use the software because it allows them to share videos directly to platforms such as Dropbox, Flickr, Google Drive, and Vimeo. To avoid unnecessary data sharing, you can save videos to your desktop and upload them yourself.

Is VideoPad worth buying?

Although the VideoPad video editor free version is somewhat limited, it functions as a free trial to see if you like it enough to upgrade. Apps that are easy to use and have a simple interface can help convert a free user to a paying customer, and VideoPad has a strong claim to your money thanks to its simplicity and light hardware requirements.

Our Recommendation

As a beginner, you may be looking to use Videopad free, but when it comes to features, it just falls short compared to modern video editors. So, we recommend you use our Filmora X video editor. Filmora video editor is free to download, so you can try out all the features without paying a penny. However free version will have a watermark when you export the video. You will have to purchase a subscription to get rid of the watermark. If you compare the features and user-friendliness of both these video editors, then Filmora definitely stands out by all means. In addition to its feature richness, it also has a user-friendly interface that beginners can easily adapt to. So, don’t waste your time and give it a try right now.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful engine, intuitive interface, and thousands of effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

Cast It All: A Step-by-Step Guide to Streaming Any Video to Chromecast

How to Stream Any Video Format to Google Chromecast

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ultimate Aiff Converter Selection Blueprint

Your Most Essential Guide Towards Picking Best Aiff Converter

An easy yet powerful editor

Numerous effects to choose from

Detailed tutorials provided by the official channel

Try It Free Try It Free

“I need to convert some general audio files to AIFF, do you have any recommendations?”

We do, in fact, have some recommendations for you! The AIFF file format, while generally obscure, is accepted by most general audio converters! So, we didn’t have any problem finding some that you can use to AIFF converter!

In this article

01 [What’s So Good About AIFF?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily](#Part 2)

03 [What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?](#Part 3)

Part 1 What’s So Good About AIFF?

But okay, what’s the deal with AIFF? Is it really all that good? And, if it is, why? For the first part of this article, we’ve prepared a short overview on the AIFF file format You can skip ahead though if you’d prefer to see the tutorial on AIFF Converters or our list of recommendations.

01What’s AIFF?

AIFF, also called the Audio Interchange File Format, is an audio file format that was popularized in 1988. It was based on the Electronic Arts Interchange File Format and is probably most familiar for Mac users. It’s accepted by most media players, including Apple Music and the Apple QuickTime Player.

Why? Well, it all has to do with the loss of quality. AIFF files are notable because they are uncompressed — leading to an inarguably better sound. That makes it popular with content creators, who want to provide the best possible listening experience to their audience. The caveat to this, of course, is that its uncompressed state means that it takes up a lot more space on one’s disk drive. But, many people would be willing to give that up in exchange for the enhanced sound.

Part 2 How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily

For this next section, we’ll be teaching you how to convert M4A to AIFF with an online AIFF converter. The benefit of using an online converter like the one we’ll be showing you how to use is that it is usually FREE and very efficient. This makes it a perfect solution for those who are just looking to convert to or from AIFF occasionally and thus has no need for a more permanent solution.

01Step 1: Launch Online AIFF Converter & Upload Files

The first thing that you have to do is open up the online AIFF Converter that you want to use. For our example, we’ve chosen FreeConvert, but there are plenty of other ones out there for you to choose from

Once you’re on-site, make use of the upload options to prepare your file to be converted. In this case, we uploaded an MP3 file, but it will work for M4A to AIFF just as well (along with other file formats.)

Open Online AIFF Converter and Upload File

02Step 2: Convert to ‘AIFF’

Once the file that you want to convert has finished uploading, confirm that the output file format has been set to “AIFF”.

Set Output Format to AIFF

03Step 3: Play with Advanced Settings

This is optional, but if you want, you can adjust certain audio parameters by taking advantage of the ‘Advanced Settings’ option

Advanced Settings Option

04Step 4: Convert M4A to AIFF

Now it’s time to finally convert In this case, that is as easy as selecting the ‘Convert to AIFF’ button.

Start M4A to AIFF Conversion

05Step 5: Download AIFF

When the conversion has been completed, click the ‘Download AIFF’ to finish up and save the converted AIFF file to your computer.

Download AIFF Option

Part 3 What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?

For this next part, we’ll be demonstrating an AIFF Converter that can be downloaded and used by Mac users. And then we’ll be following it up with a long list of all the best AIFF Converters available online and for both Windows and Mac users

01How to Use Free Audio AIFF Converter on Win/Mac?

As promised, this first part is a demonstration on how you can convert M4A to AIFF with a converter that will work for both Windows and Mac. This free audio converter is called ‘MediaHuman Audio Converter.’ It’s a really simple converter and is a great option for those who see themselves requiring an audio converter often but still don’t feel it necessary to cough up extra money for premium software when they can get a free one

**Step 1: Add File(s) for Conversion

First things first, upload the file that you want to convert With MediaHuman, you can do this in one of three ways:

Drop media onto the specified area

Click the “+” file option in order to manually add file

Click the “+ folder” option in order to manually add files

MediaHuman Audio Converter

**Step 2: Select Format

Once your file has been uploaded, select the “Format” button in the middle of the toolbar This will cause a pop-up to appear where you can choose your desired output format Of course, in our case, we chose “AIFF”

Format Profile - AIFF

**Step 3: Start Conversion

Next, click ‘Start Conversion’ This will initiate the conversion. After which, you’ll be able to save your converted AIFF file and store it for use.

Start Conversion with MediaHuman

0210 Best AIFF Converter for Lossless Conversion

Now for our list of the best AIFF Converters available right now We’ve made sure to pick a good variety of them that you can choose from. Some of which are online tools, like we introduced in Part 1, while the others will be downloaded software that you can have at the ready at all times, like what we introduced in Part 2, Section 1

Keywords: aiff converter, m4a to aiff, convert m4a to aiff

**1. Zamzar

For the first AIFF Converter on this list, we have ZAMZAR ZAMZAR is an online file conversion tool that is capable of converting in a variety of file formats. Of course, the one that we’ll be looking at today is Zamzar’s AIFF Converter — which is almost 100% FREE to use (there’s a max upload file size that can only be unlocked if you pay the premium fee).

Highlights Highlights
● FREEmium Online AIFF Converter● Wide variety of input and output file formats to choose from● No loss of quality and efficient conversion speed ● Not 100% FREE, must pay to unlock certain functions● There is a max upload size for the FREE version (50MB)● Internet is required in order for use

AIFF Converter

**2. ConvertOnMac

Our next recommended tool is Convert on Mac This is another online tool that can be used to convert a variety of files (i.e., audio, video, image, document, etc). The one that we’ll be focusing on though is Convert on Mac’s AIFF Converter

Highlights Highlights
● Supports a variety of file input and output formats● Special AIFF Converter available for easy conversion● File upload can be done both manually or through a URL ● Available online only● Most compatible for Mac users (as is evident from the name)● Not the best for bulk conversions

Convert On Mac Online Converter

**3. Online Converter

The next one up is Online Converter This one is more like ZAMZAR than Convert on Mac. If only because it also comes with a max file size that is locked. It’s more limited though — in that it doesn’t support as many input and output formats. And, as you can no doubt guess from the interface, quite old-school as well.

Highlights Highlights
● Specialized AIFF Converter● Functions as a converter for other file types as well● Large max file size ● Available online only● Max upload file size is 200MB● Slower, less efficient conversion speed

Online Converter

**4. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

For this next AIFF Converter, we make a complete departure from your general converters by introducing a completely different beast altogether Specifically, in the form of a Video Editor called Filmora. Filmora is an incredibly advanced video editing tool. And, because of this, it’s capable of most things related to video and audio editing. Including, in this case, AIFF conversion

Highlights Highlights
● Advanced video and audio functions for adjusting audio output parameters● Supports dozens of audio and video file formats● Produces high-quality end product ● FREEmium product, certain functions are locked in the FREE version● Download and installation is required● Not the most beginner-friendly

Wondershare Filmora

**5. EaseUS Video Converter

With ‘EaseUS Video Converter’ we continue on our trend of AIFF conversion software This one, despite its name suggesting otherwise, functions as a solid Audio Converter So far, it’s closest to Filmora Pro when compared to all the others on this list. It’s a one-trick kind of pony though. Seeing as, unlike with Filmora, you can really only use this to convert files.

Highlights Highlights
● High-quality video and audio conversion● Supports dozens of input and output formats● FREE trial available ● Limited FREE Trial● Supports Windows OS only● Download and installation is required for use

EaseUS Video Converter

**6. Wondershare UniConverter

This next software, the ‘Wondershare UniConverter’ is a bit of a mix between Filmora and EaseUS Video Converter. As is evident from the UI (shown-off in the screenshot provided), it has the makings of a straightforward converter but with extra tools (i.e., video editor, video compressor, merger, screen recorder, etc.) that you can take advantage of while working on your conversions.

Highlights Highlights
● Extra features for editing input and output files● Supports up to 1000 formats● High-speed Conversion rates ● FREEmium program● Certain functions are locked in the FREE version of the program● Download and installation is required for use

Wondershare UniConverter

**7. VSDC Free Audio Converter

Next up, we have VSDC VSDC is a FREE Audio Converter. It’s pretty old-school (as is perhaps evident from the UI example) but it supports a variety of audio formats, including AIFF, which earned it a spot on this list of ours

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the key formats for both input and output● Built-in editor for trimming audio● High-conversion quality ● Open-source, and thus not update as often● The conversion speed is slow● Old-school interface

VSDC Free Audio Converter

**8. Switch Audio File Converter

Switch Audio File Converter is a Mac AIFF Converter. You can find it on the Mac APP Store, or purchase it directly on the NCH Software website. For the FREE app version, you have access to certain functions, with the rest being locked under in-app purchases.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports over 40+ audio file formats● Batch conversion functionalities available● Convert from video to audio easily ● Convert from video to audio easily● Faulty AIFF to OGG conversion● Comes with lots of bugs

Switch Audio File Converter

**9. iTunes - Apple

This is a hidden feature that not many people know about, but iTunes actually works as a pretty serviceable AIFF Converter. It’s not the most efficient, but with iTunes’ AIFF Encoder, conversion to AIFF is possible (converting from AIFF to MP3, and WAV is also possible because iTunes provides Encoders for those as well).

Highlights Highlights
● FREE software, pre-installed on Mac computers● Quality settings to ensure good sound quality● AIFF-specific converter ● No bulk-conversions available● Inefficient AIFF conversion● It will need to be downloaded and installed manually for Windows

iTunes

**10. Convertio

Last, but not least, is Convertio We circle back with this fourth and last online converter It’s actually quite advanced. Although, just like many of the other FREEmium online converters we’ve listed, it’s not 100% FREE and comes with a lot of limitations.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the general audio files● Various ways to upload● High-quality conversions ● FREEmium online converter● 100MB upload limit for the FREE version● Slow conversion

Convertio

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The AIFF file format is notable because it results in higher-quality sound. This is because AIFF, unlike the more general, MP3 file format, is not a compressed format.

There are various ways that you can convert from and to the AIFF file format. The first method that we introduced was an online tool that would be available for use no matter what computer or device you’re using The second was chosen specifically because it was FREE and available for both Windows and Mac

If you’re interested in looking through other options, the ten other converters we introduced should provide a healthy lot for you to choose from — with various levels of usefulness depending on what you need an AIFF Converter.

Try It Free Try It Free

“I need to convert some general audio files to AIFF, do you have any recommendations?”

We do, in fact, have some recommendations for you! The AIFF file format, while generally obscure, is accepted by most general audio converters! So, we didn’t have any problem finding some that you can use to AIFF converter!

In this article

01 [What’s So Good About AIFF?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily](#Part 2)

03 [What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?](#Part 3)

Part 1 What’s So Good About AIFF?

But okay, what’s the deal with AIFF? Is it really all that good? And, if it is, why? For the first part of this article, we’ve prepared a short overview on the AIFF file format You can skip ahead though if you’d prefer to see the tutorial on AIFF Converters or our list of recommendations.

01What’s AIFF?

AIFF, also called the Audio Interchange File Format, is an audio file format that was popularized in 1988. It was based on the Electronic Arts Interchange File Format and is probably most familiar for Mac users. It’s accepted by most media players, including Apple Music and the Apple QuickTime Player.

Why? Well, it all has to do with the loss of quality. AIFF files are notable because they are uncompressed — leading to an inarguably better sound. That makes it popular with content creators, who want to provide the best possible listening experience to their audience. The caveat to this, of course, is that its uncompressed state means that it takes up a lot more space on one’s disk drive. But, many people would be willing to give that up in exchange for the enhanced sound.

Part 2 How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily

For this next section, we’ll be teaching you how to convert M4A to AIFF with an online AIFF converter. The benefit of using an online converter like the one we’ll be showing you how to use is that it is usually FREE and very efficient. This makes it a perfect solution for those who are just looking to convert to or from AIFF occasionally and thus has no need for a more permanent solution.

01Step 1: Launch Online AIFF Converter & Upload Files

The first thing that you have to do is open up the online AIFF Converter that you want to use. For our example, we’ve chosen FreeConvert, but there are plenty of other ones out there for you to choose from

Once you’re on-site, make use of the upload options to prepare your file to be converted. In this case, we uploaded an MP3 file, but it will work for M4A to AIFF just as well (along with other file formats.)

Open Online AIFF Converter and Upload File

02Step 2: Convert to ‘AIFF’

Once the file that you want to convert has finished uploading, confirm that the output file format has been set to “AIFF”.

Set Output Format to AIFF

03Step 3: Play with Advanced Settings

This is optional, but if you want, you can adjust certain audio parameters by taking advantage of the ‘Advanced Settings’ option

Advanced Settings Option

04Step 4: Convert M4A to AIFF

Now it’s time to finally convert In this case, that is as easy as selecting the ‘Convert to AIFF’ button.

Start M4A to AIFF Conversion

05Step 5: Download AIFF

When the conversion has been completed, click the ‘Download AIFF’ to finish up and save the converted AIFF file to your computer.

Download AIFF Option

Part 3 What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?

For this next part, we’ll be demonstrating an AIFF Converter that can be downloaded and used by Mac users. And then we’ll be following it up with a long list of all the best AIFF Converters available online and for both Windows and Mac users

01How to Use Free Audio AIFF Converter on Win/Mac?

As promised, this first part is a demonstration on how you can convert M4A to AIFF with a converter that will work for both Windows and Mac. This free audio converter is called ‘MediaHuman Audio Converter.’ It’s a really simple converter and is a great option for those who see themselves requiring an audio converter often but still don’t feel it necessary to cough up extra money for premium software when they can get a free one

**Step 1: Add File(s) for Conversion

First things first, upload the file that you want to convert With MediaHuman, you can do this in one of three ways:

Drop media onto the specified area

Click the “+” file option in order to manually add file

Click the “+ folder” option in order to manually add files

MediaHuman Audio Converter

**Step 2: Select Format

Once your file has been uploaded, select the “Format” button in the middle of the toolbar This will cause a pop-up to appear where you can choose your desired output format Of course, in our case, we chose “AIFF”

Format Profile - AIFF

**Step 3: Start Conversion

Next, click ‘Start Conversion’ This will initiate the conversion. After which, you’ll be able to save your converted AIFF file and store it for use.

Start Conversion with MediaHuman

0210 Best AIFF Converter for Lossless Conversion

Now for our list of the best AIFF Converters available right now We’ve made sure to pick a good variety of them that you can choose from. Some of which are online tools, like we introduced in Part 1, while the others will be downloaded software that you can have at the ready at all times, like what we introduced in Part 2, Section 1

Keywords: aiff converter, m4a to aiff, convert m4a to aiff

**1. Zamzar

For the first AIFF Converter on this list, we have ZAMZAR ZAMZAR is an online file conversion tool that is capable of converting in a variety of file formats. Of course, the one that we’ll be looking at today is Zamzar’s AIFF Converter — which is almost 100% FREE to use (there’s a max upload file size that can only be unlocked if you pay the premium fee).

Highlights Highlights
● FREEmium Online AIFF Converter● Wide variety of input and output file formats to choose from● No loss of quality and efficient conversion speed ● Not 100% FREE, must pay to unlock certain functions● There is a max upload size for the FREE version (50MB)● Internet is required in order for use

AIFF Converter

**2. ConvertOnMac

Our next recommended tool is Convert on Mac This is another online tool that can be used to convert a variety of files (i.e., audio, video, image, document, etc). The one that we’ll be focusing on though is Convert on Mac’s AIFF Converter

Highlights Highlights
● Supports a variety of file input and output formats● Special AIFF Converter available for easy conversion● File upload can be done both manually or through a URL ● Available online only● Most compatible for Mac users (as is evident from the name)● Not the best for bulk conversions

Convert On Mac Online Converter

**3. Online Converter

The next one up is Online Converter This one is more like ZAMZAR than Convert on Mac. If only because it also comes with a max file size that is locked. It’s more limited though — in that it doesn’t support as many input and output formats. And, as you can no doubt guess from the interface, quite old-school as well.

Highlights Highlights
● Specialized AIFF Converter● Functions as a converter for other file types as well● Large max file size ● Available online only● Max upload file size is 200MB● Slower, less efficient conversion speed

Online Converter

**4. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

For this next AIFF Converter, we make a complete departure from your general converters by introducing a completely different beast altogether Specifically, in the form of a Video Editor called Filmora. Filmora is an incredibly advanced video editing tool. And, because of this, it’s capable of most things related to video and audio editing. Including, in this case, AIFF conversion

Highlights Highlights
● Advanced video and audio functions for adjusting audio output parameters● Supports dozens of audio and video file formats● Produces high-quality end product ● FREEmium product, certain functions are locked in the FREE version● Download and installation is required● Not the most beginner-friendly

Wondershare Filmora

**5. EaseUS Video Converter

With ‘EaseUS Video Converter’ we continue on our trend of AIFF conversion software This one, despite its name suggesting otherwise, functions as a solid Audio Converter So far, it’s closest to Filmora Pro when compared to all the others on this list. It’s a one-trick kind of pony though. Seeing as, unlike with Filmora, you can really only use this to convert files.

Highlights Highlights
● High-quality video and audio conversion● Supports dozens of input and output formats● FREE trial available ● Limited FREE Trial● Supports Windows OS only● Download and installation is required for use

EaseUS Video Converter

**6. Wondershare UniConverter

This next software, the ‘Wondershare UniConverter’ is a bit of a mix between Filmora and EaseUS Video Converter. As is evident from the UI (shown-off in the screenshot provided), it has the makings of a straightforward converter but with extra tools (i.e., video editor, video compressor, merger, screen recorder, etc.) that you can take advantage of while working on your conversions.

Highlights Highlights
● Extra features for editing input and output files● Supports up to 1000 formats● High-speed Conversion rates ● FREEmium program● Certain functions are locked in the FREE version of the program● Download and installation is required for use

Wondershare UniConverter

**7. VSDC Free Audio Converter

Next up, we have VSDC VSDC is a FREE Audio Converter. It’s pretty old-school (as is perhaps evident from the UI example) but it supports a variety of audio formats, including AIFF, which earned it a spot on this list of ours

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the key formats for both input and output● Built-in editor for trimming audio● High-conversion quality ● Open-source, and thus not update as often● The conversion speed is slow● Old-school interface

VSDC Free Audio Converter

**8. Switch Audio File Converter

Switch Audio File Converter is a Mac AIFF Converter. You can find it on the Mac APP Store, or purchase it directly on the NCH Software website. For the FREE app version, you have access to certain functions, with the rest being locked under in-app purchases.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports over 40+ audio file formats● Batch conversion functionalities available● Convert from video to audio easily ● Convert from video to audio easily● Faulty AIFF to OGG conversion● Comes with lots of bugs

Switch Audio File Converter

**9. iTunes - Apple

This is a hidden feature that not many people know about, but iTunes actually works as a pretty serviceable AIFF Converter. It’s not the most efficient, but with iTunes’ AIFF Encoder, conversion to AIFF is possible (converting from AIFF to MP3, and WAV is also possible because iTunes provides Encoders for those as well).

Highlights Highlights
● FREE software, pre-installed on Mac computers● Quality settings to ensure good sound quality● AIFF-specific converter ● No bulk-conversions available● Inefficient AIFF conversion● It will need to be downloaded and installed manually for Windows

iTunes

**10. Convertio

Last, but not least, is Convertio We circle back with this fourth and last online converter It’s actually quite advanced. Although, just like many of the other FREEmium online converters we’ve listed, it’s not 100% FREE and comes with a lot of limitations.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the general audio files● Various ways to upload● High-quality conversions ● FREEmium online converter● 100MB upload limit for the FREE version● Slow conversion

Convertio

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The AIFF file format is notable because it results in higher-quality sound. This is because AIFF, unlike the more general, MP3 file format, is not a compressed format.

There are various ways that you can convert from and to the AIFF file format. The first method that we introduced was an online tool that would be available for use no matter what computer or device you’re using The second was chosen specifically because it was FREE and available for both Windows and Mac

If you’re interested in looking through other options, the ten other converters we introduced should provide a healthy lot for you to choose from — with various levels of usefulness depending on what you need an AIFF Converter.

Try It Free Try It Free

“I need to convert some general audio files to AIFF, do you have any recommendations?”

We do, in fact, have some recommendations for you! The AIFF file format, while generally obscure, is accepted by most general audio converters! So, we didn’t have any problem finding some that you can use to AIFF converter!

In this article

01 [What’s So Good About AIFF?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily](#Part 2)

03 [What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?](#Part 3)

Part 1 What’s So Good About AIFF?

But okay, what’s the deal with AIFF? Is it really all that good? And, if it is, why? For the first part of this article, we’ve prepared a short overview on the AIFF file format You can skip ahead though if you’d prefer to see the tutorial on AIFF Converters or our list of recommendations.

01What’s AIFF?

AIFF, also called the Audio Interchange File Format, is an audio file format that was popularized in 1988. It was based on the Electronic Arts Interchange File Format and is probably most familiar for Mac users. It’s accepted by most media players, including Apple Music and the Apple QuickTime Player.

Why? Well, it all has to do with the loss of quality. AIFF files are notable because they are uncompressed — leading to an inarguably better sound. That makes it popular with content creators, who want to provide the best possible listening experience to their audience. The caveat to this, of course, is that its uncompressed state means that it takes up a lot more space on one’s disk drive. But, many people would be willing to give that up in exchange for the enhanced sound.

Part 2 How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily

For this next section, we’ll be teaching you how to convert M4A to AIFF with an online AIFF converter. The benefit of using an online converter like the one we’ll be showing you how to use is that it is usually FREE and very efficient. This makes it a perfect solution for those who are just looking to convert to or from AIFF occasionally and thus has no need for a more permanent solution.

01Step 1: Launch Online AIFF Converter & Upload Files

The first thing that you have to do is open up the online AIFF Converter that you want to use. For our example, we’ve chosen FreeConvert, but there are plenty of other ones out there for you to choose from

Once you’re on-site, make use of the upload options to prepare your file to be converted. In this case, we uploaded an MP3 file, but it will work for M4A to AIFF just as well (along with other file formats.)

Open Online AIFF Converter and Upload File

02Step 2: Convert to ‘AIFF’

Once the file that you want to convert has finished uploading, confirm that the output file format has been set to “AIFF”.

Set Output Format to AIFF

03Step 3: Play with Advanced Settings

This is optional, but if you want, you can adjust certain audio parameters by taking advantage of the ‘Advanced Settings’ option

Advanced Settings Option

04Step 4: Convert M4A to AIFF

Now it’s time to finally convert In this case, that is as easy as selecting the ‘Convert to AIFF’ button.

Start M4A to AIFF Conversion

05Step 5: Download AIFF

When the conversion has been completed, click the ‘Download AIFF’ to finish up and save the converted AIFF file to your computer.

Download AIFF Option

Part 3 What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?

For this next part, we’ll be demonstrating an AIFF Converter that can be downloaded and used by Mac users. And then we’ll be following it up with a long list of all the best AIFF Converters available online and for both Windows and Mac users

01How to Use Free Audio AIFF Converter on Win/Mac?

As promised, this first part is a demonstration on how you can convert M4A to AIFF with a converter that will work for both Windows and Mac. This free audio converter is called ‘MediaHuman Audio Converter.’ It’s a really simple converter and is a great option for those who see themselves requiring an audio converter often but still don’t feel it necessary to cough up extra money for premium software when they can get a free one

**Step 1: Add File(s) for Conversion

First things first, upload the file that you want to convert With MediaHuman, you can do this in one of three ways:

Drop media onto the specified area

Click the “+” file option in order to manually add file

Click the “+ folder” option in order to manually add files

MediaHuman Audio Converter

**Step 2: Select Format

Once your file has been uploaded, select the “Format” button in the middle of the toolbar This will cause a pop-up to appear where you can choose your desired output format Of course, in our case, we chose “AIFF”

Format Profile - AIFF

**Step 3: Start Conversion

Next, click ‘Start Conversion’ This will initiate the conversion. After which, you’ll be able to save your converted AIFF file and store it for use.

Start Conversion with MediaHuman

0210 Best AIFF Converter for Lossless Conversion

Now for our list of the best AIFF Converters available right now We’ve made sure to pick a good variety of them that you can choose from. Some of which are online tools, like we introduced in Part 1, while the others will be downloaded software that you can have at the ready at all times, like what we introduced in Part 2, Section 1

Keywords: aiff converter, m4a to aiff, convert m4a to aiff

**1. Zamzar

For the first AIFF Converter on this list, we have ZAMZAR ZAMZAR is an online file conversion tool that is capable of converting in a variety of file formats. Of course, the one that we’ll be looking at today is Zamzar’s AIFF Converter — which is almost 100% FREE to use (there’s a max upload file size that can only be unlocked if you pay the premium fee).

Highlights Highlights
● FREEmium Online AIFF Converter● Wide variety of input and output file formats to choose from● No loss of quality and efficient conversion speed ● Not 100% FREE, must pay to unlock certain functions● There is a max upload size for the FREE version (50MB)● Internet is required in order for use

AIFF Converter

**2. ConvertOnMac

Our next recommended tool is Convert on Mac This is another online tool that can be used to convert a variety of files (i.e., audio, video, image, document, etc). The one that we’ll be focusing on though is Convert on Mac’s AIFF Converter

Highlights Highlights
● Supports a variety of file input and output formats● Special AIFF Converter available for easy conversion● File upload can be done both manually or through a URL ● Available online only● Most compatible for Mac users (as is evident from the name)● Not the best for bulk conversions

Convert On Mac Online Converter

**3. Online Converter

The next one up is Online Converter This one is more like ZAMZAR than Convert on Mac. If only because it also comes with a max file size that is locked. It’s more limited though — in that it doesn’t support as many input and output formats. And, as you can no doubt guess from the interface, quite old-school as well.

Highlights Highlights
● Specialized AIFF Converter● Functions as a converter for other file types as well● Large max file size ● Available online only● Max upload file size is 200MB● Slower, less efficient conversion speed

Online Converter

**4. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

For this next AIFF Converter, we make a complete departure from your general converters by introducing a completely different beast altogether Specifically, in the form of a Video Editor called Filmora. Filmora is an incredibly advanced video editing tool. And, because of this, it’s capable of most things related to video and audio editing. Including, in this case, AIFF conversion

Highlights Highlights
● Advanced video and audio functions for adjusting audio output parameters● Supports dozens of audio and video file formats● Produces high-quality end product ● FREEmium product, certain functions are locked in the FREE version● Download and installation is required● Not the most beginner-friendly

Wondershare Filmora

**5. EaseUS Video Converter

With ‘EaseUS Video Converter’ we continue on our trend of AIFF conversion software This one, despite its name suggesting otherwise, functions as a solid Audio Converter So far, it’s closest to Filmora Pro when compared to all the others on this list. It’s a one-trick kind of pony though. Seeing as, unlike with Filmora, you can really only use this to convert files.

Highlights Highlights
● High-quality video and audio conversion● Supports dozens of input and output formats● FREE trial available ● Limited FREE Trial● Supports Windows OS only● Download and installation is required for use

EaseUS Video Converter

**6. Wondershare UniConverter

This next software, the ‘Wondershare UniConverter’ is a bit of a mix between Filmora and EaseUS Video Converter. As is evident from the UI (shown-off in the screenshot provided), it has the makings of a straightforward converter but with extra tools (i.e., video editor, video compressor, merger, screen recorder, etc.) that you can take advantage of while working on your conversions.

Highlights Highlights
● Extra features for editing input and output files● Supports up to 1000 formats● High-speed Conversion rates ● FREEmium program● Certain functions are locked in the FREE version of the program● Download and installation is required for use

Wondershare UniConverter

**7. VSDC Free Audio Converter

Next up, we have VSDC VSDC is a FREE Audio Converter. It’s pretty old-school (as is perhaps evident from the UI example) but it supports a variety of audio formats, including AIFF, which earned it a spot on this list of ours

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the key formats for both input and output● Built-in editor for trimming audio● High-conversion quality ● Open-source, and thus not update as often● The conversion speed is slow● Old-school interface

VSDC Free Audio Converter

**8. Switch Audio File Converter

Switch Audio File Converter is a Mac AIFF Converter. You can find it on the Mac APP Store, or purchase it directly on the NCH Software website. For the FREE app version, you have access to certain functions, with the rest being locked under in-app purchases.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports over 40+ audio file formats● Batch conversion functionalities available● Convert from video to audio easily ● Convert from video to audio easily● Faulty AIFF to OGG conversion● Comes with lots of bugs

Switch Audio File Converter

**9. iTunes - Apple

This is a hidden feature that not many people know about, but iTunes actually works as a pretty serviceable AIFF Converter. It’s not the most efficient, but with iTunes’ AIFF Encoder, conversion to AIFF is possible (converting from AIFF to MP3, and WAV is also possible because iTunes provides Encoders for those as well).

Highlights Highlights
● FREE software, pre-installed on Mac computers● Quality settings to ensure good sound quality● AIFF-specific converter ● No bulk-conversions available● Inefficient AIFF conversion● It will need to be downloaded and installed manually for Windows

iTunes

**10. Convertio

Last, but not least, is Convertio We circle back with this fourth and last online converter It’s actually quite advanced. Although, just like many of the other FREEmium online converters we’ve listed, it’s not 100% FREE and comes with a lot of limitations.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the general audio files● Various ways to upload● High-quality conversions ● FREEmium online converter● 100MB upload limit for the FREE version● Slow conversion

Convertio

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The AIFF file format is notable because it results in higher-quality sound. This is because AIFF, unlike the more general, MP3 file format, is not a compressed format.

There are various ways that you can convert from and to the AIFF file format. The first method that we introduced was an online tool that would be available for use no matter what computer or device you’re using The second was chosen specifically because it was FREE and available for both Windows and Mac

If you’re interested in looking through other options, the ten other converters we introduced should provide a healthy lot for you to choose from — with various levels of usefulness depending on what you need an AIFF Converter.

Try It Free Try It Free

“I need to convert some general audio files to AIFF, do you have any recommendations?”

We do, in fact, have some recommendations for you! The AIFF file format, while generally obscure, is accepted by most general audio converters! So, we didn’t have any problem finding some that you can use to AIFF converter!

In this article

01 [What’s So Good About AIFF?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily](#Part 2)

03 [What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?](#Part 3)

Part 1 What’s So Good About AIFF?

But okay, what’s the deal with AIFF? Is it really all that good? And, if it is, why? For the first part of this article, we’ve prepared a short overview on the AIFF file format You can skip ahead though if you’d prefer to see the tutorial on AIFF Converters or our list of recommendations.

01What’s AIFF?

AIFF, also called the Audio Interchange File Format, is an audio file format that was popularized in 1988. It was based on the Electronic Arts Interchange File Format and is probably most familiar for Mac users. It’s accepted by most media players, including Apple Music and the Apple QuickTime Player.

Why? Well, it all has to do with the loss of quality. AIFF files are notable because they are uncompressed — leading to an inarguably better sound. That makes it popular with content creators, who want to provide the best possible listening experience to their audience. The caveat to this, of course, is that its uncompressed state means that it takes up a lot more space on one’s disk drive. But, many people would be willing to give that up in exchange for the enhanced sound.

Part 2 How to Convert M4A to AIFF Free and Easily

For this next section, we’ll be teaching you how to convert M4A to AIFF with an online AIFF converter. The benefit of using an online converter like the one we’ll be showing you how to use is that it is usually FREE and very efficient. This makes it a perfect solution for those who are just looking to convert to or from AIFF occasionally and thus has no need for a more permanent solution.

01Step 1: Launch Online AIFF Converter & Upload Files

The first thing that you have to do is open up the online AIFF Converter that you want to use. For our example, we’ve chosen FreeConvert, but there are plenty of other ones out there for you to choose from

Once you’re on-site, make use of the upload options to prepare your file to be converted. In this case, we uploaded an MP3 file, but it will work for M4A to AIFF just as well (along with other file formats.)

Open Online AIFF Converter and Upload File

02Step 2: Convert to ‘AIFF’

Once the file that you want to convert has finished uploading, confirm that the output file format has been set to “AIFF”.

Set Output Format to AIFF

03Step 3: Play with Advanced Settings

This is optional, but if you want, you can adjust certain audio parameters by taking advantage of the ‘Advanced Settings’ option

Advanced Settings Option

04Step 4: Convert M4A to AIFF

Now it’s time to finally convert In this case, that is as easy as selecting the ‘Convert to AIFF’ button.

Start M4A to AIFF Conversion

05Step 5: Download AIFF

When the conversion has been completed, click the ‘Download AIFF’ to finish up and save the converted AIFF file to your computer.

Download AIFF Option

Part 3 What Makes AIFF Converter the Best Free Online Tool for Mac Users?

For this next part, we’ll be demonstrating an AIFF Converter that can be downloaded and used by Mac users. And then we’ll be following it up with a long list of all the best AIFF Converters available online and for both Windows and Mac users

01How to Use Free Audio AIFF Converter on Win/Mac?

As promised, this first part is a demonstration on how you can convert M4A to AIFF with a converter that will work for both Windows and Mac. This free audio converter is called ‘MediaHuman Audio Converter.’ It’s a really simple converter and is a great option for those who see themselves requiring an audio converter often but still don’t feel it necessary to cough up extra money for premium software when they can get a free one

**Step 1: Add File(s) for Conversion

First things first, upload the file that you want to convert With MediaHuman, you can do this in one of three ways:

Drop media onto the specified area

Click the “+” file option in order to manually add file

Click the “+ folder” option in order to manually add files

MediaHuman Audio Converter

**Step 2: Select Format

Once your file has been uploaded, select the “Format” button in the middle of the toolbar This will cause a pop-up to appear where you can choose your desired output format Of course, in our case, we chose “AIFF”

Format Profile - AIFF

**Step 3: Start Conversion

Next, click ‘Start Conversion’ This will initiate the conversion. After which, you’ll be able to save your converted AIFF file and store it for use.

Start Conversion with MediaHuman

0210 Best AIFF Converter for Lossless Conversion

Now for our list of the best AIFF Converters available right now We’ve made sure to pick a good variety of them that you can choose from. Some of which are online tools, like we introduced in Part 1, while the others will be downloaded software that you can have at the ready at all times, like what we introduced in Part 2, Section 1

Keywords: aiff converter, m4a to aiff, convert m4a to aiff

**1. Zamzar

For the first AIFF Converter on this list, we have ZAMZAR ZAMZAR is an online file conversion tool that is capable of converting in a variety of file formats. Of course, the one that we’ll be looking at today is Zamzar’s AIFF Converter — which is almost 100% FREE to use (there’s a max upload file size that can only be unlocked if you pay the premium fee).

Highlights Highlights
● FREEmium Online AIFF Converter● Wide variety of input and output file formats to choose from● No loss of quality and efficient conversion speed ● Not 100% FREE, must pay to unlock certain functions● There is a max upload size for the FREE version (50MB)● Internet is required in order for use

AIFF Converter

**2. ConvertOnMac

Our next recommended tool is Convert on Mac This is another online tool that can be used to convert a variety of files (i.e., audio, video, image, document, etc). The one that we’ll be focusing on though is Convert on Mac’s AIFF Converter

Highlights Highlights
● Supports a variety of file input and output formats● Special AIFF Converter available for easy conversion● File upload can be done both manually or through a URL ● Available online only● Most compatible for Mac users (as is evident from the name)● Not the best for bulk conversions

Convert On Mac Online Converter

**3. Online Converter

The next one up is Online Converter This one is more like ZAMZAR than Convert on Mac. If only because it also comes with a max file size that is locked. It’s more limited though — in that it doesn’t support as many input and output formats. And, as you can no doubt guess from the interface, quite old-school as well.

Highlights Highlights
● Specialized AIFF Converter● Functions as a converter for other file types as well● Large max file size ● Available online only● Max upload file size is 200MB● Slower, less efficient conversion speed

Online Converter

**4. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

For this next AIFF Converter, we make a complete departure from your general converters by introducing a completely different beast altogether Specifically, in the form of a Video Editor called Filmora. Filmora is an incredibly advanced video editing tool. And, because of this, it’s capable of most things related to video and audio editing. Including, in this case, AIFF conversion

Highlights Highlights
● Advanced video and audio functions for adjusting audio output parameters● Supports dozens of audio and video file formats● Produces high-quality end product ● FREEmium product, certain functions are locked in the FREE version● Download and installation is required● Not the most beginner-friendly

Wondershare Filmora

**5. EaseUS Video Converter

With ‘EaseUS Video Converter’ we continue on our trend of AIFF conversion software This one, despite its name suggesting otherwise, functions as a solid Audio Converter So far, it’s closest to Filmora Pro when compared to all the others on this list. It’s a one-trick kind of pony though. Seeing as, unlike with Filmora, you can really only use this to convert files.

Highlights Highlights
● High-quality video and audio conversion● Supports dozens of input and output formats● FREE trial available ● Limited FREE Trial● Supports Windows OS only● Download and installation is required for use

EaseUS Video Converter

**6. Wondershare UniConverter

This next software, the ‘Wondershare UniConverter’ is a bit of a mix between Filmora and EaseUS Video Converter. As is evident from the UI (shown-off in the screenshot provided), it has the makings of a straightforward converter but with extra tools (i.e., video editor, video compressor, merger, screen recorder, etc.) that you can take advantage of while working on your conversions.

Highlights Highlights
● Extra features for editing input and output files● Supports up to 1000 formats● High-speed Conversion rates ● FREEmium program● Certain functions are locked in the FREE version of the program● Download and installation is required for use

Wondershare UniConverter

**7. VSDC Free Audio Converter

Next up, we have VSDC VSDC is a FREE Audio Converter. It’s pretty old-school (as is perhaps evident from the UI example) but it supports a variety of audio formats, including AIFF, which earned it a spot on this list of ours

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the key formats for both input and output● Built-in editor for trimming audio● High-conversion quality ● Open-source, and thus not update as often● The conversion speed is slow● Old-school interface

VSDC Free Audio Converter

**8. Switch Audio File Converter

Switch Audio File Converter is a Mac AIFF Converter. You can find it on the Mac APP Store, or purchase it directly on the NCH Software website. For the FREE app version, you have access to certain functions, with the rest being locked under in-app purchases.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports over 40+ audio file formats● Batch conversion functionalities available● Convert from video to audio easily ● Convert from video to audio easily● Faulty AIFF to OGG conversion● Comes with lots of bugs

Switch Audio File Converter

**9. iTunes - Apple

This is a hidden feature that not many people know about, but iTunes actually works as a pretty serviceable AIFF Converter. It’s not the most efficient, but with iTunes’ AIFF Encoder, conversion to AIFF is possible (converting from AIFF to MP3, and WAV is also possible because iTunes provides Encoders for those as well).

Highlights Highlights
● FREE software, pre-installed on Mac computers● Quality settings to ensure good sound quality● AIFF-specific converter ● No bulk-conversions available● Inefficient AIFF conversion● It will need to be downloaded and installed manually for Windows

iTunes

**10. Convertio

Last, but not least, is Convertio We circle back with this fourth and last online converter It’s actually quite advanced. Although, just like many of the other FREEmium online converters we’ve listed, it’s not 100% FREE and comes with a lot of limitations.

Highlights Highlights
● Supports all the general audio files● Various ways to upload● High-quality conversions ● FREEmium online converter● 100MB upload limit for the FREE version● Slow conversion

Convertio

Key Takeaways from This Episode

The AIFF file format is notable because it results in higher-quality sound. This is because AIFF, unlike the more general, MP3 file format, is not a compressed format.

There are various ways that you can convert from and to the AIFF file format. The first method that we introduced was an online tool that would be available for use no matter what computer or device you’re using The second was chosen specifically because it was FREE and available for both Windows and Mac

If you’re interested in looking through other options, the ten other converters we introduced should provide a healthy lot for you to choose from — with various levels of usefulness depending on what you need an AIFF Converter.

FCP X Tutorial: How to Achieve Flawless Chroma Keying

FCP X: Create a Chroma-Key (Green-screen) Effect

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

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Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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  • Title: Updated Videopad Review A Detailed Look at Its Video Editing Capabilities
  • Author: Ava
  • Created at : 2024-05-19 14:42:02
  • Updated at : 2024-05-20 14:42:02
  • Link: https://video-content-creator.techidaily.com/updated-videopad-review-a-detailed-look-at-its-video-editing-capabilities/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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Updated Videopad Review A Detailed Look at Its Video Editing Capabilities