Saving your Movie Maker projects as MP4 files is unfortunately not a straightforward option natively within the older versions of the program. However, by utilizing specific codecs, workarounds, or alternative software, you can achieve this essential conversion and enjoy widespread compatibility for your videos.
The MP4 Conundrum: Why isn’t it Directly Available?
Movie Maker, particularly older versions that many users still rely on, typically saves projects as .wlmp files. These files are project files, essentially blueprints for the video you’ve created. They are not videos themselves and cannot be played on most devices or platforms. Directly saving to MP4 within the program isn’t an available option because Movie Maker was developed with a specific set of output codecs in mind, prioritizing Windows Media Video (.wmv).
The absence of a direct MP4 save option stems from the technological landscape at the time of Movie Maker’s original development. MP4 wasn’t as universally adopted as it is today. However, thankfully, there are reliable and effective methods to bridge this gap and output your creations in the versatile MP4 format.
Method 1: Using the “Best for Playback on My Computer” Setting with a Codec Pack
One often overlooked method leverages the “Best for Playback on My Computer” setting in Movie Maker coupled with the installation of a suitable codec pack. Codecs are essentially encoders and decoders that allow your computer to understand and work with various video and audio formats.
Installing a Codec Pack
While potentially resolving the issue, installing codec packs can sometimes lead to conflicts with existing codecs on your system. Therefore, proceed with caution. A popular and relatively reliable option is the K-Lite Codec Pack. Download it from a reputable source and follow the installation instructions carefully. Choose the “Normal” installation option for a balance between functionality and system stability.
Configuring Movie Maker Output
- Once the codec pack is installed, open your Movie Maker project.
- Go to File > Save Movie > For computer.
- Give your file a name and choose a location to save it.
- Click “Show more choices.”
- In the “Settings” dropdown menu, select “Best for playback on my computer.”
- Click “Create.”
This method relies on the newly installed codecs to allow Movie Maker to encode the video into an MP4-compatible format, though it might actually save as a .wmv file with an MP4-compatible codec embedded. Test the output file to confirm its compatibility.
Method 2: Utilizing a Video Converter
The most reliable and universally recommended method is to export your Movie Maker project as a .wmv file and then convert it to MP4 using a dedicated video converter. This provides granular control over the output settings and ensures compatibility across various devices and platforms.
Exporting as .wmv
- Open your Movie Maker project.
- Go to File > Save Movie.
- Select a resolution and quality setting. Higher resolution and quality will result in a larger file size. “For computer” or similar options usually provide a good balance.
- Give your file a name and choose a location to save it. Ensure it saves as a .wmv file.
- Click “Save.”
Converting to MP4
Numerous video converters are available, both free and paid. Some popular options include:
- Handbrake: A free and open-source converter renowned for its powerful features and flexibility.
- Freemake Video Converter: A user-friendly option with a simple interface. Be cautious during installation to avoid bundled software.
- Any Video Converter: A versatile converter that supports a wide range of formats.
- CloudConvert: An online converter that doesn’t require software installation. Be mindful of upload limits and privacy considerations.
The process is generally the same across most converters:
- Open the video converter software.
- Add the .wmv file you exported from Movie Maker.
- Select MP4 as the output format.
- Adjust the video and audio settings (resolution, bitrate, frame rate) as needed. Experiment to find the best balance between quality and file size. The default settings are often suitable for general use.
- Choose an output folder.
- Click “Convert.”
Method 3: Upgrading to Modern Video Editing Software
While it may require a learning curve, upgrading to a more modern video editing software like DaVinci Resolve (free), OpenShot (free), or Filmora (paid) offers a far more streamlined and feature-rich experience. These programs natively support MP4 export and provide advanced editing capabilities that Movie Maker simply cannot match. This is often the best long-term solution.
Benefits of Modern Software
- Direct MP4 Export: Native support for MP4 and other modern video formats.
- Advanced Editing Tools: Greater control over transitions, effects, color correction, and audio mixing.
- Regular Updates: Consistent updates and improvements to functionality and compatibility.
- Community Support: A larger user base and more online resources for troubleshooting and learning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Why does Movie Maker not directly support saving as MP4?
Movie Maker was developed at a time when MP4 was not as universally prevalent as it is today. Its design prioritized Windows Media Video (.wmv), limiting direct output options.
FAQ 2: Is installing a codec pack safe?
Installing codec packs can be risky if downloaded from untrusted sources. It’s crucial to download from the official website of reputable codec packs like K-Lite. Conflicts with existing codecs are also possible.
FAQ 3: What settings should I use when converting my .wmv to MP4?
Start with the default settings provided by your video converter. If you need to adjust, experiment with the resolution and bitrate to find the best balance between quality and file size. Aim for a resolution that matches the original video and a bitrate that’s high enough to preserve details.
FAQ 4: Which video converter is the best?
The “best” video converter depends on your needs and budget. Handbrake is a powerful and free option, while paid converters like Filmora offer more user-friendly interfaces and advanced features. CloudConvert is convenient for occasional conversions without software installation.
FAQ 5: Can I use an online video converter for large files?
Online converters often have limitations on file size and may compromise privacy. If you’re working with large or sensitive files, using a desktop-based converter is generally recommended.
FAQ 6: Will converting my video affect its quality?
Any video conversion process involves some level of quality loss. However, by using a high-quality converter and choosing appropriate settings, you can minimize the loss and maintain a visually appealing result.
FAQ 7: What is the difference between resolution and bitrate?
Resolution refers to the number of pixels in the video frame, determining its sharpness and detail. Bitrate represents the amount of data used to encode the video per second, affecting its overall quality. Higher resolution and bitrate generally result in better quality but also larger file sizes.
FAQ 8: How do I choose the right resolution for my video?
If you plan to upload your video to YouTube or other online platforms, use a resolution that matches the platform’s recommended settings. For general viewing on computers and mobile devices, 720p (HD) or 1080p (Full HD) are common choices.
FAQ 9: Why is my converted MP4 file so large?
The file size depends on the resolution, bitrate, and duration of the video. To reduce the file size, try lowering the bitrate or resolution during the conversion process.
FAQ 10: Is it illegal to convert videos?
Converting videos for personal use is generally legal. However, distributing or sharing copyrighted content without permission is illegal.
FAQ 11: What if I encounter errors during the conversion process?
Errors during conversion can be caused by various factors, such as corrupted files, incompatible codecs, or software glitches. Try restarting the converter, using a different converter, or checking for updated codecs.
FAQ 12: Which is better: .wmv or .mp4?
While .wmv may work seamlessly on Windows, .mp4 is generally considered superior due to its wider compatibility across different operating systems, devices, and online platforms. It offers better compression and often better quality at comparable file sizes.
By understanding these methods and frequently asked questions, you can successfully save your Movie Maker projects as MP4 files and ensure they are accessible and shareable across a wide range of devices and platforms. Remember to back up your project files and experiment with different settings to achieve the best results.