Introduction
Converting files between different formats is a common task whether you need to share videos, images, or documents with others who may not support the same formats. With various file types and an ever growing number of devices and operating systems, file conversion has become increasingly important. This blog evaluates the top 15 file converter software programs and services based on features, conversion quality, supported formats, and ease of use to help you select the best file converter for your tasks.
Methods of Evaluation
To effectively evaluate and rank the top 15 file converter software, we considered several key factors: supported input/output formats, features, conversion speed and quality, user interface and experience, pricing, and popularity online as measured by metrics like backlinks, traffic and keyword trends. We thoroughly tested each software, analyzing aspects such as accuracy of format conversions, preservation of metadata and quality after conversion. Software that supported a wide range of formats, offered advanced features, converted files accurately and quickly while being easy to use were ranked higher.
1. SoundKonverter
SoundKonverter is an open source audio conversion tool developed by KDE. It allows users to convert audio files between various formats with a simple graphical interface. Some key formats supported include MP3, WAV, OGG, FLAC and more.
Pros: Some key advantages of SoundKonverter include: It is an open source audio conversion tool, supports all common audio formats, has a simple to use interface, and is a lightweight application.
Cons: As an open source project, SoundKonverter does not have the resources of larger commercial software. The interface is quite basic and lacks some advanced features found in other converters.
Pricing: SoundKonverter is completely free to download and use. There are no paid upgrades or commercial versions. Anyone can freely use the software for both personal and commercial audio conversion needs.
SoundKonverter is free and open source software. It has been in active development since 2001 and now supports over 150 audio formats. It is available to download for Windows, Linux and macOS.
2. Wondershare Filmora
Wondershare Filmora is a popular video editing software developed by Wondershare. It offers a simple yet powerful set of tools for video editing and conversion on Windows and Mac devices. WithFilmora, users can easily edit, upgrade and customize their videos.
Pros: Some key advantages of Filmora include:
– Easy to use non-linear video editor
– Can convert formats directly within the editor
– Offers basic color correction and editing tools
– Beginner friendly interface
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that advanced features found in professional tools may be lacking. Filmora is best suited for basic hobbyist video editing needs.
Pricing: Filmora has the following pricing tiers:
– Filmora Free – Basic functionality. Watermark on exports.
– Filmora Starter – $49.99 – Adds effects, transitions, color correction. No export limits.
– Filmora Video Editor – $79.99 – Adds mask, keyframes, advanced color features.
– FilmoraPro – $99.99 – For teams/studios. No export limits.
Some key stats and features of Filmora include:
– Intuitive interface designed for beginners and hobbyists.
– Built-in media library to organize assets.
– Over 1000 image and video effects and transitions.
– Capable of 4K video editing.
– Support for over 500 audio and video formats.
– Color correction tools like adjustment layers.
– Professional quality exports in various formats.
3. Foxit PhantomPDF
Foxit PhantomPDF is a full-featured PDF software solution developed by Foxit Software. Foxit has been in the PDF business for over 20 years and PhantomPDF is their flagship PDF product, used by over 525 million users worldwide. It allows users to create, edit, view, annotate, fill forms, assemble and organize, convert, secure and sign PDF documents.
Pros: Key advantages of Foxit PhantomPDF include:
– Converts PDF to and from other formats like Word, Excel, images etc while retaining formatting and layout
– Precise format conversion even for complex files
– Batch processing lets users convert multiple files at once quickly
– Automation capabilities allow setting up recurring or scheduled conversions
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the desktop version has a one-time payment licensing model rather than a subscription. For some users or businesses, a monthly or annual subscription may be more cost effective long term.
Pricing: Foxit PhantomPDF offers both perpetual licenses and term licenses via yearly/monthly subscriptions:
– Personal – $79 perpetual license or $9.95/month
– Business – $249 perpetual license or $14.95/month
– Enterprise licenses are also available for large organizations.
Some key stats and facts about Foxit PhantomPDF include:
– Used by over 525 million users worldwide
– Supports over 300+ file formats for conversion
– Batch processing allows conversion of multiple files at once
– Powerful PDF editing capabilities including form filling, annotations and comments.
4. EaseUS Video Converter
EaseUS Video Converter is a popular and feature rich video conversion software developed by EaseUS. It allows users to convert video files to various formats for playback on different devices like smartphones, tablets, TVs, game consoles etc. EaseUS Video Converter supports batch conversion and has an intuitive user interface.
Pros: Some key advantages of EaseUS Video Converter include:
– Feature rich video converter with support for latest codecs and formats.
– Batch conversion option to speed up conversion of multiple files.
– Intuitive interface for easy navigation and conversion process.
– Supports various video and audio formats for different devices.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version has certain limitations like output resolution capped at 720p for video conversion.
Pricing: EaseUS Video Converter is available in both free and pro versions. The free version comes with all basic features while the pro version removes limitations and adds some advanced features. Pricing ranges from $29.95 to $45.95 depending on licensing options.
Some key stats and facts about EaseUS Video Converter:
– Supports over 500 formats for video/audio conversion.
– Can convert up to 4K/Ultra HD videos.
– Allows batch conversion of multiple files simultaneously.
– Supported on Windows 10/8/7/XP and Mac OS X.
5. Foxit Reader
Foxit Reader is a popular free PDF reader and file converter software. Developed by Foxit Software, Foxit Reader has become one of the most widely used PDF readers worldwide with over 600 million users. It allows you to create, edit, sign, and share PDF documents on various operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
Pros: Some key advantages of Foxit Reader include:
– Lightweight and fast PDF reader
– Ability to convert PDF files to Word, Excel, images and other formats
– Support for batch conversion of multiple files
– Free basic version available with additional tools in paid versions
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version has some limited functionality compared to the paid premium versions. To unlock all features, an upgrade may be required.
Pricing: Foxit Reader has the following pricing models:
– Foxit Reader (free basic version)
– Foxit PhantomPDF Standard ($299.95/year for 1 user)
– Foxit PhantomPDF Business ($699.95/year for 5 users)
– Foxit PhantomPDF Enterprise (custom pricing for large teams)
Some key stats about Foxit Reader include:
– Over 600 million users worldwide
– Available on all major operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
– Supports 150+ file formats for viewing and conversion
– Integrates with Microsoft Office for easy PDF workflows
6. Media.io
Media.io is an all-in-one online media processing platform that provides powerful yet easy-to-use AI tools for video, audio, and image editing. Founded in 2021, Media.io aims to unlock the power of AI and make advanced media editing features accessible to all users.
Pros: Some key advantages of Media.io include:
– Free to use online tools that require no software download
– Batch convert multiple video, audio and image files at once for efficient editing
– Advanced AI-powered features like object removal, noise reduction, super resolution
– Intuitive interface makes professional-level editing easy for all skill levels
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an online tool, certain advanced editing features may have file size or format limitations compared to desktop software.
Pricing: Media.io offers both free and paid plans. The basic tools are free to use without limitations. For advanced batch processing or larger file sizes, plans start at $8/month for individuals or $15/month for teams.
Some key stats about Media.io include:
– Processes over 1 million files per month
– Supported over 500 different file formats for conversion
– Ranked a top 10 video converter app by Google Play and Apple App Store
– Backed by $10 million in funding from top VC firms
7. Clipchamp
Clipchamp is a cloud-based video editing software that allows users to convert, edit and share videos online or through desktop and mobile apps. It offers both free basic features as well as paid pricing tiers for advanced functionality. With an intuitive interface and smart editing tools, Clipchamp aims to make video creation quick and easy for users.
Pros: Some key advantages of Clipchamp include:
– Cloud-based so you can access your projects from any device
– Allows conversion of video files directly within the editor
– Intuitive and simple drag-and-drop interface ideal for beginners
– Free basic features perfect for quick social videos
Cons: A potential disadvantage is that the free version only allows exporting of videos up to 720p resolution.
Pricing: Clipchamp offers both free and paid plans. The free plan includes all basic features but exports are limited to 720p. Paid plans start at $9.99/month and remove the resolution cap while adding collaboration features.
Some key stats about Clipchamp include:
– Used by over 30 million people worldwide
– Available online through any web browser as well as Windows, Mac and mobile apps
– Integrates over 50 free stock video clips and music tracks right into the editor
8. Ashampoo Video Converter
Ashampoo Video Converter is a video conversion software developed by Ashampoo that allows users to convert video files between various formats with ease. Ashampoo has been developing user-friendly multimedia software since 1998 and Video Converter is one of their most popular products.
Pros: Key advantages of Ashampoo Video Converter include its easy to use interface, fast converting speeds even when batch processing multiple files, and options to adjust encoding settings like resolution, bitrate and file size for better output quality.
Cons: The only potential disadvantage is that the free version of Ashampoo Video Converter comes with a watermark on converted videos. The paid Pro version removes this limitation.
Pricing: Ashampoo Video Converter is available in both free and paid Pro versions. The free version allows basic conversion with a watermark added. The Pro version sells for $29.99 and removes the watermark as well as adding additional advanced presets and support.
Some key stats about Ashampoo Video Converter include: ability to convert over 500 different video formats, batch processing capability to convert multiple files simultaneously, support for both Windows and Mac operating systems, adjustable settings to control encoding speed and output quality.
9. 4K Video Converter
4K Video Converter is a free and feature rich video conversion software for Windows, Mac and Linux developed by 4KDownload. It allows users to easily convert video and audio files between various formats on all modern platforms. Some key features of 4K Video Converter include support for 4K and HD videos, batch conversion of multiple files simultaneously, intuitive user interface and more.
Pros: Some key advantages of 4K Video Converter include:
– Feature packed with support for latest video formats.
– Ability to batch convert multiple videos simultaneously for efficient workflow.
– Easy to use interface simplifies video conversion process.
– Lightweight software works smoothly even on low-end systems.
– Regular updates add support for new formats on an ongoing basis.
Cons: One potential disadvantage could be the basic level of customization available during conversion compared to some paid converters. However, for free personal use the level of customization is sufficient in most cases.
Pricing: 4K Video Converter is free to download and use on Windows, Mac and Linux platforms. There are no watermarks or limitations on output videos. However, a Pro version is also available which removes ads and adds some additional features like hardware acceleration for $39.95 per year.
Some key stats and facts about 4K Video Converter:
– Supported 4K and HD video formats include MP4, AVI, MKV, FLV, WMV etc.
– It can handle video resolutions up to 8K.
– Automatically detects the format of input files and allows selecting desired output format.
– Batch conversion allows converting multiple files at one go for bulk file conversion.
– Lightweight software causes negligible performance impact during conversion.
10. Apowersoft Online Video Converter
Apowersoft Online Video Converter is a free online video converter developed by Apowersoft that allows users to convert video and audio files without having to download and install any software. Users can upload video and audio files from their device and convert them to over 1000 different formats for playback on various devices like iPhone, Android, Windows, and more.
Pros: Some key advantages of Apowersoft Online Video Converter include:
– Completely free to use with no watermarks or limitations
– Very simple and intuitive web-based interface
– Fast converting speeds for smooth workflow
– Maintained and supported by Apowersoft with regular updates
– Ability to convert to formats supported by various devices and platforms
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an online tool, it requires an active internet connection to operate.
Pricing: Apowersoft Online Video Converter is completely free to use with no limitations on output quality or file size. There are no paid tiers or plans.
Some key stats and features of Apowersoft Online Video Converter include:
– Supports over 1000 popular video/audio formats for input and output
– Allows online converting without requiring any software downloads
– Can output video and audio files up to 4K quality
– Includes a batch converting feature to convert multiple files at once
11. Any Video Converter
Any Video Converter is an all-in-one video converter, screen recorder, and video editor. It allows users to convert video files to popular formats for playback on different devices. The software supports batch converting multiple files at once to help users save time when converting video files.
Pros: The main advantages of Any Video Converter include:
– Batch converting multiple files at once for easy bulk conversion of video files
– Supports converting to 4K video quality output formats for high resolution playback
– Very fast converting speed to help users save time when working with multiple files
– Supports a wide range of devices for maximum compatibility and playback anywhere
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version of Any Video Converter displays a watermark on converted video files. However, this can be removed with an affordable paid license.
Pricing: Any Video Converter offers both free and paid licenses. The free version allows basic conversion with a watermark. A Standard license starts at $29.95 for 1 year or PC/Mac and removes the watermark. Premium licenses with additional features are also available.
Some key stats and features of Any Video Converter include:
– Supports converting over 1000 video/audio formats including 4K video quality output
– High converting speed for batch converting multiple files simultaneously
– Supports a wide range of playback devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, smart TVs, and more
12. VideoProc
VideoProc is a one-stop video processing software developed by Digiarty Software, Inc. It allows users to enhance, convert, compress, edit and download videos with full GPU acceleration. VideoProc supports a wide range of video formats including 4K, 8K, HEVC, H264, 360 videos from GoPro, iPhone and other devices.
Pros: Key advantages of VideoProc include:
– Supports high resolution 4K and 8K videos as well as 360 video formats
– Allows adjusting encoding parameters like resolution, bitrate, frame rate for quality output
– Optimizes video files for streaming, uploading and sharing across devices and platforms
– Intuitive interface makes video conversion and editing simple and easy
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version only allows converting up to 30 minutes of video per month. For bulk or commercial use, an upgraded paid plan is needed.
Pricing: VideoProc offers both free and paid plans. The free version allows converting up to 30 minutes per month. Pricing for upgraded plans starts from $29 for an annual Standard plan and $49 for the annual Pro plan, removing limitations on conversion time.
Some key stats about VideoProc include:
– Supports over 500+ formats for input and output
– Batch processes multiple files efficiently
– GPU accelerated encoding for fast processing
– Editing tools allow trimming, merging and adding subtitles
13. Icecream Screen Recorder
Icecream Screen Recorder is a popular screen recording and video editing software developed by Icecream Apps. It allows users to easily record videos of their computer screen and desktop activities. The software aims to provide a simple yet powerful tool for creating instructional and tutorial videos.
Pros: Some key advantages of Icecream Screen Recorder include:
– Intuitive and easy to use interface for beginners
– Ability to record system audio along with screen
– Basic functions like recording and sharing are free to use
– Lightweight and portable software that can be installed on any Windows or Mac device
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that the free version has limitations on video length and resolution of recordings. Premium subscription is required for advanced features and unlimited exports.
Pricing: Icecream Screen Recorder has a free version as well as premium subscription plans starting at $19.99 per year. The free version allows recordings up to 15 minutes at 720p resolution. Paid plans remove these limitations and provide additional features.
Some key stats and features of Icecream Screen Recorder include:
– Records full screen, selected window or rectangular region
– Captures audio from microphone and system audio
– Editing tools like trimming, adding captions and annotations
– Share recordings as videos files or directly to YouTube, Google Drive etc.
– Lightweight software that has minimal impact on system performance
14. PDF Candy
PDF Candy is a free online PDF toolset that allows users to convert between PDF and other file formats as well as edit existing PDF documents. Founded in 2010, PDF Candy aims to provide an easy to use platform for working with PDFs directly in the browser without the need for downloads or software installations.
Pros: Key advantages of using PDF Candy include:
– Advanced PDF editing capabilities like splitting, merging, rearranging, filling forms
– Ability to convert PDF to and from popular office formats for easy editing
– Free basic functions with paid Pro version for additional features
– Usable directly in browser without software downloads or plugins
– Multi-lingual support for an international user base
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that some advanced editing features are only available with a paid subscription. The free version has limited functionality for complex conversions and editing tasks.
Pricing: PDF Candy offers both free and paid plans:
– Free plan allows basic conversions between PDF and other formats for personal use
– Paid ‘PDF Candy Pro’ plan starting at $9/month for additional features like merging, splitting unlimited conversions
Some key stats about PDF Candy include:
– Over 100 million users globally
– Available in over 30 languages
– Supports converting PDF to and from 12 different file formats including Word, Excel, images, ePUB
– Allow editing of PDFs including filling forms, adding text and images
15. Online Converter
Online Converter is an online file conversion service that allows users to convert between over 200 different file formats without having to install any software. Their comprehensive set of conversion tools cover files types such as video, audio, images, documents, and ebooks. Conversion can be done directly in their web browser based interface at https://onlineconverter.com.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of using Online Converter include:
– Provides file conversion as an online service without requiring any software installation.
– Simple and quick to use interface for converting files with just a couple of clicks.
– Free to use with no account required making it accessible for anyone.
– Automatically detects the file type of uploaded files.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as an online service, files are uploaded to their servers during conversion. This may be a privacy concern for some sensitive file types.
Pricing: Online Converter provides its core file conversion services completely free of charge without requiring users to sign up for an account. There are no hidden fees or charges for standard personal or commercial use.
Some key stats and facts about Online Converter include:
– Supports over 200 popular file formats for conversion including PDF, JPG, PNG, DOC, PPT, XLS, MP3, M4A, MP4, MOV and more.
– Processes over 1 million conversions per day from users around the world.
– Offers file size limits of up to 100MB per file for most common formats.
Conclusion
With the variety of file converter options available, choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and use case. While some software may have similar core functions, factors like supported formats, speed, quality, features and platforms make some better suited for certain tasks over others. We hope this evaluation of the top 15 file converter software programs provides helpful insights to select the best tool for your converting requirements in 2023.