Windows Movie Maker, while a relatively simple video editor, produces files in its own proprietary format, most commonly the .wlmp format (for project files) and potentially .MSWMM. To share these projects easily, they need to be converted to a more universally compatible format like MP4. This guide provides several methods to convert your Windows Movie Maker creations to MP4, ensuring they can be viewed on any device.
Understanding the Challenge: Why MP4 Conversion is Necessary
Windows Movie Maker doesn’t directly export to MP4 in all its versions. The software often defaults to saving projects as a .wlmp project file, which isn’t a video file at all. It’s merely a file containing instructions for Movie Maker to assemble the video. To create an actual playable video, you need to “publish” or “save” your project. However, even when saving, older versions might offer WMV (Windows Media Video) as the primary output option. WMV is a Microsoft-developed format and, while widely supported, doesn’t offer the same level of compatibility as MP4. MP4 is a container format known for its broad compatibility across devices, operating systems, and media players, making it the industry standard for video distribution. Therefore, converting to MP4 ensures your video reaches the widest possible audience without compatibility issues.
Methods for Converting to MP4
Several methods can be used to convert your Windows Movie Maker project to MP4. The best approach depends on your version of Windows Movie Maker and your preferred level of technical expertise.
Method 1: Publishing Directly to MP4 (If Available)
Some versions of Windows Movie Maker (especially later iterations after Windows Vista) offer a direct export to MP4.
- Open your .wlmp project: Launch Windows Movie Maker and open the project you wish to convert.
- Go to “File” -> “Save movie”: Look for a direct “MP4” option in the save menu. This might be labeled as “For computer,” “For HD display,” or similar. If you see an MP4 option, select it.
- Choose your settings: You’ll typically be prompted to select a resolution and bitrate. Higher resolutions and bitrates result in better quality but larger file sizes.
- Save the file: Choose a location to save the MP4 file and click “Save.”
If you are fortunate enough to have this option, it is the simplest and fastest way to convert your file.
Method 2: Saving as WMV and Using a Video Converter
If your Windows Movie Maker version doesn’t support direct MP4 export, the next best option is to save your project as a WMV (Windows Media Video) file and then use a dedicated video converter to convert the WMV to MP4.
- Open your .wlmp project: As before, open the project in Windows Movie Maker.
- Go to “File” -> “Save movie”: Select an option like “For computer” or “Recommended for this project.” This usually saves the file as a WMV.
- Download and Install a Video Converter: Numerous video converters are available, both free and paid. Popular choices include:
- HandBrake: A free, open-source converter.
- Freemake Video Converter: A user-friendly free converter. (Be cautious of bundled software during installation).
- Any Video Converter: Another popular free option.
- Movavi Video Converter: A paid option with a free trial and advanced features.
- Convert the WMV file to MP4: Launch your chosen video converter and follow its instructions to convert the WMV file to MP4. Generally, this involves:
- Adding the WMV file to the converter.
- Selecting “MP4” as the output format.
- Adjusting settings like resolution, bitrate, and codec if desired.
- Starting the conversion process.
Method 3: Online Video Converters
If you prefer not to install software, several online video converters can handle the conversion from WMV to MP4.
- Save your project as WMV: Follow the steps outlined in Method 2 to save your Windows Movie Maker project as a WMV file.
- Choose an Online Converter: Search for “online WMV to MP4 converter.” Some popular options include:
- CloudConvert: A reliable and versatile online converter.
- Zamzar: Another well-established online converter.
- OnlineConvert.com: Offers a wide range of conversion options.
- Upload the WMV file: Upload the WMV file to the online converter.
- Select MP4 as the output format: Make sure MP4 is selected as the desired output format.
- Start the conversion: Initiate the conversion process and wait for the file to be processed.
- Download the MP4 file: Once the conversion is complete, download the MP4 file to your computer.
Important Considerations for Online Converters: Be mindful of the file size limits imposed by some online converters. Also, ensure you are using a reputable website and understand its privacy policy, as you will be uploading your video file to their servers.
FAQs: Deep Dive into Windows Movie Maker and MP4 Conversion
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the intricacies of converting Windows Movie Maker files to MP4.
FAQ 1: Why does Windows Movie Maker save files as .wlmp instead of a video format?
The .wlmp file is a project file, not a video file. It’s similar to how a .doc file in Microsoft Word contains the instructions for displaying a document, not the actual text itself as raw data. The .wlmp file tells Windows Movie Maker which video clips, audio tracks, effects, and transitions to use and in what order to create the final video. You must explicitly “publish” or “save” the project to create a playable video file in a format like WMV or MP4.
FAQ 2: What if my version of Windows Movie Maker only saves as WMV? Is WMV bad?
WMV isn’t inherently bad. It’s a perfectly acceptable video format and will play on most Windows devices. However, MP4 offers wider compatibility across different platforms and devices, including Macs, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. Converting WMV to MP4 ensures broader reach.
FAQ 3: Which video converter is the best for converting WMV to MP4?
The “best” converter depends on your specific needs and preferences. HandBrake is a great free, open-source option that offers a lot of control over conversion settings. Freemake Video Converter is user-friendly but often bundles unwanted software, so pay attention during installation. Paid converters like Movavi Video Converter offer more advanced features and support.
FAQ 4: What settings should I use when converting WMV to MP4 to maintain quality?
To maintain good quality, aim for a bitrate similar to the original WMV file. If you’re unsure, a bitrate of 4000-6000 kbps for HD (720p or 1080p) videos is a good starting point. Also, consider using the H.264 codec, which is widely supported and offers a good balance between quality and file size. Maintain the same resolution as the original WMV.
FAQ 5: How can I reduce the file size of my MP4 video?
Reducing the bitrate is the most effective way to reduce file size. Experiment with lower bitrates until you find a balance between file size and acceptable video quality. You can also reduce the resolution or frame rate, but this will significantly impact video quality.
FAQ 6: Are online video converters safe to use?
Using online video converters carries some risks. Always use reputable websites with clear privacy policies. Be cautious of websites that ask for excessive permissions or display suspicious ads. Avoid uploading sensitive or confidential videos.
FAQ 7: Can I convert a .wlmp file directly to MP4 without opening it in Windows Movie Maker?
No, you cannot directly convert a .wlmp file to MP4. The .wlmp file is a project file and needs to be opened in Windows Movie Maker to be rendered into a video file (like WMV or MP4).
FAQ 8: Windows Movie Maker keeps crashing when I try to save my project. What can I do?
Crashes in Windows Movie Maker can be caused by various factors, including corrupt project files, outdated drivers, or insufficient system resources. Try the following:
- Restart your computer.
- Update your graphics card drivers.
- Close other programs to free up system resources.
- Split your project into smaller parts and save them separately.
- Check for corrupted video or audio files within the project.
FAQ 9: Is there a newer version of Windows Movie Maker available?
Microsoft discontinued Windows Movie Maker (as part of Windows Essentials) in 2017. It is no longer officially supported. Although you might find it available for download on third-party sites, be cautious as these downloads may contain malware. Consider using a modern video editing software as an alternative.
FAQ 10: What are some alternatives to Windows Movie Maker?
Many excellent video editing alternatives are available, both free and paid. Some popular options include:
- OpenShot: A free, open-source video editor.
- DaVinci Resolve (Free and Studio versions): A professional-grade editor with a steep learning curve but powerful features.
- Shotcut: Another free, open-source option.
- Adobe Premiere Elements: A user-friendly paid option.
- iMovie (for macOS): A free and easy-to-use video editor for Mac users.
FAQ 11: Can I use a different video editor to open my .wlmp files?
Unfortunately, .wlmp files are proprietary to Windows Movie Maker and cannot be opened directly in other video editing software. You would need to recreate the project in the new editor.
FAQ 12: Does converting WMV to MP4 reduce video quality?
Converting from one video format to another can potentially result in some quality loss, especially if the bitrate is significantly reduced during the conversion process. However, by using appropriate settings and a high-quality video converter, you can minimize the quality loss and create an MP4 file that is virtually indistinguishable from the original WMV. Experiment with different settings to find the best balance between file size and quality for your needs.