Mastering the Art of MP4: Saving Your Movie Maker Creations

The ability to save your Movie Maker projects as MP4 files ensures broad compatibility and easy sharing. While direct saving as MP4 wasn’t always natively supported in older versions, there are effective workarounds and updated versions that make it simple.

Understanding the MP4 Dilemma in Movie Maker

For many years, Windows Movie Maker defaulted to saving projects in the .wmv format. While perfectly functional within the Windows ecosystem, the format presented challenges when sharing across different operating systems, devices, and online platforms. The ubiquity of the MP4 format, known for its smaller file size and wider device support, created a demand for a solution. Depending on the specific version of Movie Maker you’re using, the process differs, but thankfully, effective strategies exist for every user.

Methods for Saving in MP4

Here’s a breakdown of the methods available, based on your Movie Maker version:

Method 1: Native MP4 Support (Windows Live Movie Maker and Later)

If you’re using Windows Live Movie Maker (part of the Windows Live Essentials suite) or a newer version, you might already have built-in MP4 support. This is the easiest method.

  1. Complete your project: Edit your video as usual within Movie Maker. Add your clips, transitions, music, and text.
  2. Go to “Save Movie”: Click the “File” menu, then select “Save Movie.”
  3. Choose MP4 Preset: Look for an option like “For Computer,” “For Email,” “For High Definition Display,” or similar. Selecting one of these often defaults to the MP4 format behind the scenes. Movie Maker will often show the file extension of the saved file, confirming it is MP4. Check the resulting file’s properties to ensure it’s indeed an MP4. You might need to check “Show all files” in the save dialog box to see all available options.
  4. Name and Save: Give your video a name and choose a location to save it. Click “Save.”

Method 2: Using the “Save Movie” Presets (Even if MP4 isn’t Explicitly Mentioned)

Even if you don’t see “MP4” explicitly listed, the “Save Movie” presets in Windows Movie Maker often encode your video into an MP4-compatible format. Experiment with different presets like “For Computer” or “For Email” and then check the resulting file properties.

  1. Follow Steps 1 and 2 as outlined above in Method 1.
  2. Experiment with Presets: Choose different presets within the “Save Movie” options. Note the suggested file size and resolution.
  3. Check File Properties: After saving, right-click on the saved file in File Explorer and select “Properties.” Go to the “Details” tab. The “File type” or “Container” should indicate whether it’s an MP4 file. Look for “.mp4” listed as the extension in the “Name” section.

Method 3: Converting WMV to MP4 with a Third-Party Converter

If your version of Movie Maker only saves in .wmv, the most reliable approach is to use a video converter. There are many free and paid options available online.

  1. Save your project as WMV: In Movie Maker, save your project in the default .wmv format.
  2. Download and Install a Video Converter: Choose a reputable video converter. Popular options include Handbrake, Freemake Video Converter, VLC Media Player (which has built-in conversion capabilities), and online converters like CloudConvert or Zamzar.
  3. Import the WMV File: Open your video converter and import the .wmv file you saved from Movie Maker.
  4. Select MP4 as the Output Format: Choose “MP4” or “MPEG-4” as the desired output format. You may also have options to adjust the video and audio quality settings. Higher quality settings result in larger file sizes.
  5. Convert the File: Start the conversion process. The time it takes will depend on the size of your video and the speed of your computer.
  6. Verify Conversion: Once the conversion is complete, check the output MP4 file to ensure it plays correctly and that the audio and video are synchronized.

Method 4: Using VLC Media Player to Convert (Free and Versatile)

VLC Media Player, known for its ability to play almost any video format, can also convert files. This is a great option if you already have VLC installed.

  1. Save as WMV: Save your project as a .wmv file in Movie Maker.
  2. Open VLC: Open the VLC Media Player application.
  3. Go to Convert/Save: In VLC, go to “Media” -> “Convert / Save…” (or press Ctrl+R).
  4. Add the WMV File: Click the “Add…” button and select your .wmv file.
  5. Click Convert/Save: Click the “Convert / Save” button at the bottom.
  6. Select Profile: In the “Profile” dropdown menu, choose a profile such as “Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4).” You can also customize the profile settings by clicking the wrench icon.
  7. Choose Destination File: Click the “Browse” button to choose the destination folder and file name for your converted MP4 file. Be sure to include the “.mp4” extension in the file name.
  8. Start Conversion: Click the “Start” button. VLC will begin converting the file. A progress bar will appear at the bottom of the VLC window.

FAQs: Saving Your Movie Maker Projects in MP4

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process:

1. Why can’t I see the MP4 option directly in my older version of Movie Maker?

Older versions of Windows Movie Maker were primarily designed to work with Microsoft’s proprietary .wmv format. MP4 became more ubiquitous later, leading to the necessity of workarounds like using video converters.

2. What is the best video converter to use for converting WMV to MP4?

There isn’t one “best” converter, as it depends on your needs. Handbrake is a popular, free, and open-source option known for its power and flexibility. Freemake Video Converter is another free option that is user-friendly. Paid options often offer more advanced features and faster conversion speeds.

3. Does converting from WMV to MP4 reduce the video quality?

Yes, converting video can sometimes result in a slight quality loss, especially if you compress the file significantly. To minimize quality loss, use high-quality settings during the conversion process. Experiment with different settings to find the best balance between file size and quality.

4. How do I check if a file is actually an MP4 file?

The easiest way is to right-click the file, select “Properties,” and then go to the “Details” tab. The “File type” or “Container” field should indicate “MPEG-4” or “MP4.” Also, the file extension in the “Name” field will confirm this, look for .mp4.

5. What video settings should I use when converting to MP4 for YouTube?

YouTube recommends specific video settings for optimal upload quality. Generally, you should aim for an MP4 file encoded with the H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec. The resolution should match your original video, such as 1920×1080 (1080p) or 1280×720 (720p). Bitrate recommendations vary depending on the resolution and frame rate. Refer to YouTube’s official guidelines for the most up-to-date recommendations.

6. Is there a way to save directly as MP4 in Windows Movie Maker without using a converter?

Only if you are using Windows Live Movie Maker or a newer version that has built-in MP4 support (through “Save Movie” presets). Otherwise, using a video converter is the most reliable solution.

7. My converted MP4 file is too large. How can I reduce the file size?

You can reduce the file size by lowering the video and audio bitrate during the conversion process. Experiment with different bitrate settings to find a good balance between file size and quality. You can also reduce the resolution of the video.

8. Will using an online video converter compromise my video’s security?

Using an online video converter carries some risk, as you are uploading your video to a third-party server. Choose reputable converters with strong security measures. If you are concerned about privacy, consider using a desktop-based converter instead.

9. Why is my MP4 video playing without sound after converting it?

This typically indicates an issue with the audio codec during conversion. Ensure that the audio codec is set to AAC or MP3 in your video converter settings. Also check that the original WMV file had audio to begin with.

10. What does the “H.264” codec mean, and why is it important?

H.264 is a video compression standard widely used for recording, compressing, and distributing video content. It’s important because it offers a good balance between video quality and file size. Most devices and platforms support H.264.

11. Is Windows Movie Maker still supported by Microsoft?

No, Windows Movie Maker is no longer officially supported by Microsoft. Windows Live Movie Maker (part of Windows Live Essentials) was discontinued in 2017. While you may still be able to download and use it, it’s not receiving updates or security patches. Consider transitioning to a more modern video editing software.

12. What are some alternatives to Windows Movie Maker that natively support MP4?

There are many alternatives to Windows Movie Maker that offer native MP4 support. Popular options include OpenShot (free and open-source), DaVinci Resolve (free and paid versions), Shotcut (free and open-source), and paid options like Adobe Premiere Elements and Filmora. These programs offer a wider range of features and are actively supported.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top