How to convert a DVD to an MP4 for free

At Which? Tech Support, we've heard from members looking to digitise their DVDs to prevent footage from getting damaged, lost or stolen.

With the help of free software, you can create digital copies of your DVDs and back them up to cloud storage services. Converting home videos also makes them easier to send to friends and family.

Below, we explain how to convert a DVD to an MP4 without paying a penny.

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Each month, we feature one of the most popular questions answered by our Tech Support team.

Question of the Month: How do I convert a DVD to MP4 to make it easier to share?

'I have many home videos of my kids and grandkids stored on DVDs, holding precious memories. How can I digitise them?'

Which? Tech Support member

Using VLC on Windows, Mac and Linux

Step 1: Download and install the software

The easiest way to digitise your videos is by using a free and open-source program called VLC. (Note that without proper authorisation, it is illegal to use the software to copy, convert or distribute content that is protected by copyright.)

Digitising your videos is the best way to ensure they are safe and easily accessible. Once converted, you can share the files with family and friends, or store them securely on an external hard drive or in the cloud.

To convert a DVD to an MP4, download and install VLC from the brand's website and open VLC Media Player. You'll need to insert the DVD into your computer's drive.

If your computer doesn't have a built-in DVD drive, you can buy a USB-compatible drive from online retailers including Amazon. We haven't tested these, but here's an example under £25:

Step 2: Select your disc

Now that VLC is running, you need to select Media in the top-left corner, then Convert/Save.

Go to the Disc tab and select DVD. VLC should automatically pick up the DVD, but you can also select browse to manually select it.

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Step 3: Confirm your conversion settings

Click Show more options. Here, you can add a start and end time if you only require a section of the video, rather than the whole thing in its entirety.

Next, choose Convert/Save at the bottom of the window. In the Convert window, under Profile, select Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4) as shown here:

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Step 4: Convert your file

Click Browse to choose a destination and name for your file. Then, click Start to begin the conversion process – progress is shown in VLC at the bottom of the window.

Once complete, your finished video will be saved in MP4 format ready to view, send or safely store.

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Additional reporting by Tom Morgan.