Windows Movie Maker, though a legacy program, holds a special place in many hearts as an intuitive video editing tool. However, its default save format, .wlmp, isn’t widely compatible. The key to transforming your creations into shareable, accessible videos lies in rendering your project into a universally recognized format, most notably MP4. This article provides a comprehensive guide to exporting your Windows Movie Maker project to MP4, along with troubleshooting tips and answers to frequently asked questions.
Understanding the Output Process in Windows Movie Maker
Windows Movie Maker doesn’t directly “save as MP4.” Instead, it uses a process called rendering or exporting, where your project is compiled into a video file. The program offers various export settings, and while MP4 wasn’t explicitly labeled in older versions, the functionality was present through specific configuration choices. Modern versions and suggested replacements typically offer a more straightforward MP4 export option.
Step-by-Step Guide: Exporting to MP4 (Or Equivalent)
Here’s how to convert your Windows Movie Maker project into a universally compatible video format, focusing on achieving the equivalent of an MP4.
Exporting for General Use
- Finish Editing: Ensure your project is complete, including all desired cuts, transitions, and audio.
- Click “File” then “Save Movie”: Navigate to the “File” menu in the top left corner and select “Save Movie.”
- Choose a Preset: Windows Movie Maker offers several presets tailored for different devices and platforms (e.g., “For Computer,” “For Email,” “For High Definition Display”). Choosing a suitable preset is crucial for video quality and file size. If a specific MP4 profile isn’t available, select “For Computer,” which typically defaults to a WMV (Windows Media Video) format.
- Rename and Save: Give your video a descriptive name and choose a location to save it.
- Conversion (If Needed): If the exported file is WMV, you’ll need to convert it to MP4 using a video converter. Numerous free and paid options are available (more on this below).
Customizing Export Settings (Advanced Users)
- Select “Create Custom Setting”: Instead of choosing a preset, look for an option like “Create Custom Setting” or “For Project.” This allows you to manually configure the video and audio codecs.
- Video Settings:
- Codec: Select H.264 as the video codec. H.264 is the most commonly used codec for MP4 files.
- Bitrate: Higher bitrates result in better quality but larger file sizes. Start with a bitrate around 5-10 Mbps for standard definition (SD) video and 10-20 Mbps for high definition (HD) video. Adjust based on your desired balance between quality and size.
- Frame Rate: Choose a frame rate appropriate for your source footage (e.g., 24fps for cinematic look, 30fps for smoother motion).
- Width and Height: Set the desired resolution for your video (e.g., 1920×1080 for 1080p HD).
- Audio Settings:
- Codec: Select AAC as the audio codec. AAC is commonly used with MP4 and offers good audio quality.
- Bitrate: Aim for an audio bitrate of 128-192 kbps for good audio quality.
- Channels: Choose “Stereo” for most projects.
- Sample Rate: 44.1 kHz is a standard sample rate.
- Save Your Custom Setting: Save your custom setting with a descriptive name for future use.
Converting WMV to MP4
Since Windows Movie Maker often defaults to WMV, you might need to convert the file. Here are some popular methods:
- HandBrake: A free and open-source video transcoder. It’s powerful and supports various input and output formats, including MP4.
- VLC Media Player: Besides being a versatile media player, VLC can also convert video files.
- Online Converters: Numerous online converters (e.g., CloudConvert, Zamzar) allow you to upload your WMV file and convert it to MP4. Be mindful of privacy concerns when using online converters.
- Dedicated Video Conversion Software: Programs like Movavi Video Converter offer user-friendly interfaces and advanced features for video conversion.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Video Quality is Poor: Increase the video bitrate during the export process or conversion. Also, ensure your source footage is high quality.
- Audio is Muted or Distorted: Check your audio settings in Windows Movie Maker and during the conversion process. Ensure the audio codec and bitrate are appropriate.
- Export Process is Slow: This can be due to large project sizes, high-resolution footage, or a slow computer. Close other applications and consider reducing the video resolution or bitrate to speed up the process.
- Windows Movie Maker Crashes During Export: This can be due to corrupted files or software conflicts. Try restarting your computer and closing unnecessary programs. Consider updating your video drivers.
FAQs: Addressing Your Windows Movie Maker to MP4 Concerns
Here are some frequently asked questions related to exporting Windows Movie Maker projects to MP4:
FAQ 1: Why doesn’t Windows Movie Maker have a direct “Save as MP4” option?
The version of Windows Movie Maker most people remember pre-dated MP4 being the ubiquitous standard it is today. Instead, it relied on WMV and custom profiles.
FAQ 2: Is WMV as good as MP4?
WMV is a decent format, but it’s primarily designed for Windows. MP4 offers broader compatibility across devices and platforms, making it the preferred choice for sharing and playback.
FAQ 3: Which video converter is best for converting WMV to MP4?
HandBrake is widely recommended due to its free, open-source nature and powerful features. VLC is a good option for quick and simple conversions. The best choice depends on your specific needs and technical expertise.
FAQ 4: What video bitrate should I use for exporting to MP4?
For standard definition (SD) video, a bitrate of 5-10 Mbps is generally sufficient. For high definition (HD) video (720p or 1080p), a bitrate of 10-20 Mbps is recommended. Adjust these values based on the desired balance between video quality and file size.
FAQ 5: Can I edit the MP4 file after converting it from Windows Movie Maker?
Yes, you can edit the converted MP4 file using any video editing software that supports the MP4 format.
FAQ 6: What should I do if my video looks pixelated after converting to MP4?
This indicates a low bitrate. Increase the video bitrate during the export or conversion process. Ensure your source footage is also of sufficient quality.
FAQ 7: How can I reduce the file size of my MP4 video?
Lower the video bitrate and resolution. You can also use a video compression tool to further reduce the file size.
FAQ 8: Is it possible to export Windows Movie Maker projects to formats other than MP4?
Yes, Windows Movie Maker allows you to export to various formats, including WMV, AVI, and MOV, depending on the available codecs.
FAQ 9: What are some alternatives to Windows Movie Maker that directly support MP4 export?
Several free and paid video editing programs offer direct MP4 export, including DaVinci Resolve (free), OpenShot (free), and Filmora (paid). These programs often provide more advanced features than Windows Movie Maker.
FAQ 10: How do I update my video drivers?
Visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and download the latest drivers for your operating system.
FAQ 11: Can I batch convert multiple WMV files to MP4 at once?
Yes, many video converters, including HandBrake and Movavi Video Converter, support batch processing, allowing you to convert multiple files simultaneously.
FAQ 12: Is it safe to use online video converters?
Exercise caution when using online video converters. Choose reputable websites and avoid uploading sensitive or confidential video files. Consider using offline software for greater security.