While all DVD converters have the same core functionality – the ability to convert DVD to popular format of videos, like MP4, AVI, etc. – there is some variance in regards to conversion speed and quality, features, ease of use. We looked for conversion applications that are easy to use and offer useful features and top-notch video quality and conversion speed. Additionally, we evaluated the supplementary help and support for each application to ensure that you can get technical support through either online resources or direct customer service from the manufacturer.
DVD Converter Software: What to Look For
1. Conversion Speed and Quality
Conversion speed and quality can vary between conversion applications and largely depends on the size and quality of the original DVD files. The best converters have a relatively quick conversion speed and retain the quality of the original DVD. Any DVD Converter is just such a program. It delivers decent conversion speed and quality. The software has a 1:5 speed ratio, meaning it can convert five minutes of video in approximately one minute. As such, we evaluated the conversion speed of each software application in our lineup along with the overall quality of its output video.
2. Supported Outputs
This category encompasses both the devices and additional multimedia container and file formats that each conversion application supports. Aside from MP4, we took note of other popular formats to which each application could convert standard DVDs, such as AVI and other MPEG formats.Most converters also list preset output devices in addition to supported formats, allowing you to choose a specific device, such as an iPod or Blackberry phone, that you want to use to play your converted videos. We looked for converters that allow you to select a preset device since that doesn’t require in-depth knowledge of multimedia formats and makes it easy for non-tech savvy users to utilize the application.
3. Features
In addition to basic DVD conversion, many applications offer a handful of features that facilitate a quick conversion process and enable some level of video customization. For instance, we sought DVD to MP4 converters that offered a preview function and batch conversion (the ability to convert multiple DVD chapters or files in a single conversion process). We also looked for features such as the ability to crop a converted video, add a watermark, and change video effects such as brightness and contrast. Such features allow you to fully customize your converted videos.
4. Ease of Use
It is a concern with any type of software, especially multimedia or utility applications. You should seek converters that are powerful and versatile but also easy to use. Through our testing, we determined which applications in our lineup were the most intuitive and easy to use, and therefore well-suited for users with intermediate computer skills or those who have a very limited knowledge of computers.
5. Help & Support
When it comes to the supplementary technical support that each application’s manufacturer provides, we weighted manufacturers’ online resources most heavily. For instance, we looked for manufacturer websites with FAQs, tutorials and product guides that explained how to use the converter application step by step. Additionally, we assessed which methods the manufacturer provided for contacting them directly, such as email addresses or online support ticket forms.
DVD converter software allows you to easily convert standard DVDs into a multimedia format that can be accessed on most mobile devices, allowing you to access your DVD collection anywhere.