Convert H.265 to H.264 using third-party software
If a video encoded with H.265 (HEVC) doesn’t open or import correctly, converting it to H.264 usually helps.
H.264 is widely supported and works reliably on most systems.
This article explains how to convert HEVC files using free third-party tools.
H.264 is widely supported and works reliably on most systems.
This article explains how to convert HEVC files using free third-party tools.
When conversion is needed
Conversion is recommended if:
- the video doesn’t import into Movavi
- the file opens with audio only or a black preview
- your system does not support HEVC decoding
- HEVC support cannot be installed or enabled.
Option 1: convert using VLC media player
VLC is a free, open-source media player that includes a built-in video conversion tool.
Step 1: Install VLC
Download VLC from the official website: https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
Install the program and launch it without opening a media file.
Go to Media → Convert / Save.
Step 1: Install VLC
Download VLC from the official website: https://www.videolan.org/vlc/
Install the program and launch it without opening a media file.
Go to Media → Convert / Save.
Step 2: Add the HEVC file
- Click Add
- Select your H.265 (HEVC) file
- Click Convert / Save
Step 3: Choose output settings
- Under Profile, select:
- Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4)
- Click Browse
- Enter a new file name (different from the original)
- Choose a save location
- Click Start
Step 4: Wait for conversion to finish
Once finished, import the converted file into Movavi.
- The progress bar appears at the bottom of the VLC window.
- Conversion time depends on video length and resolution.
- Do not close VLC until the process completes.
Once finished, import the converted file into Movavi.
Option 2: convert using HandBrake
HandBrake is a free video transcoder with a simple interface and preset-based workflow.
Download HandBrake: https://handbrake.fr/
Step 1: Open the source file
Step 2: Select output format
You can use the default preset or select one that matches your resolution needs.
Step 3: Start conversion
After conversion, import the new file into Movavi.
Download HandBrake: https://handbrake.fr/
Step 1: Open the source file
- Launch HandBrake
- Click Open Source
- Select your H.265 (HEVC) video file
Step 2: Select output format
- Under Format, choose MP4.
- In Video settings:
- Video Codec: H.264 (x264)
You can use the default preset or select one that matches your resolution needs.
Step 3: Start conversion
- Choose the destination file name and location
- Click Start Encode
- Wait until the process finishes
After conversion, import the new file into Movavi.
Important notes
- Converted files must have a different name from the original.
- Conversion may take significant time for long or high-resolution videos.
- This process does not affect license or activation.
- Conversion is required only for files encoded with HEVC.
When to contact Movavi Customer Service
Contact Movavi Customer Service if:
Include:
- the file is already H.264 but still doesn’t open
- converted files fail to import
- multiple formats fail to work
Include:
- your operating system
- the original file format
- screenshots of the issue
+1-855-5220335
The phone is available Monday to Friday from 08:00 AM to midnight UTC / 01:00 AM to 05:00 PM PST
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