Best Ways to Convert DVD to MP4 on Windows & Mac
DVDs may not be as dominant as they once were, but they still hold valuable movies, home videos, and important data. Converting them to digital formats—especially MP4—makes them easier to store, enjoy, and share across modern devices. If you’re looking to convert DVD to MP4 or wondering how to rip DVD to MP4 safely and efficiently, this guide will walk you through the best tools and methods in 2025.
In this article, we’ll also provide a full step-by-step tutorial using one of the most reliable solutions available today, along with answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What You Need Before Converting a DVD to MP4
Before learning how to convert DVD to MP4, make sure you have the following:
1. A Computer with a DVD Drive
Most modern laptops no longer include built-in DVD drives, so you may need an external USB DVD drive.
2. The DVD You Want to Convert
Ensure the disc is clean and free from scratches for smoother ripping.
3. DVD Ripping Software
This guide covers both free and paid tools for Windows and macOS.
4. Enough Storage Space
A full-length movie can take 1–2GB after conversion to MP4.
5. Legal Rights to Copy the Content
Always ensure you have the legal right to rip the DVD you own.
Best Tools to Convert DVD to MP4 in 2025
Here are the top-rated tools that make it easy to rip DVD to MP4 on Windows and Mac.
1. HandBrake (Free & Open Source)
HandBrake remains one of the most popular free tools for converting DVDs and videos. It supports MP4, MKV, and other formats.
Pros:
- Completely free
- Available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Great for beginners and advanced users
- Offers presets for iPhone, Android, and Smart TVs
Cons:
- Cannot decrypt copy-protected DVDs without extra plugins
- Slower conversion speeds
HandBrake is a great choice if you’re working with non-protected DVDs or if you prefer a free tool with strong customization options.
2. VLC Media Player
Surprisingly, VLC can also rip DVD to MP4 in addition to its video playback features.
Pros:
- Free and open source
- Works on all major OS
- Simple interface
Cons:
- Limited format settings
- Slow ripping speeds
- Not as reliable for copy-protected discs
VLC works best for older or unprotected DVDs when you need a simple, free solution.
3. WinX DVD Ripper
WinX DVD Ripper is known for its fast processing speeds and ability to handle nearly any DVD format.
Pros:
- Very fast conversion
- Handles encrypted DVDs successfully
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons:
- Free version has feature limitations
- Paid version required for full performance
If you want speed and broad compatibility, WinX is a solid option.
4. Leawo Blu-ray Ripper
Leawo Blu-ray Ripper stands out for its professional-grade performance and wide format support. Though the name highlights Blu-rays, the tool can also convert DVD to MP4 with excellent speed and quality.
You can explore more about the tool using this link: Leawo Blu-ray ripper
Pros:
- Supports both Blu-rays and DVDs
- High-quality MP4 output
- Fast GPU-accelerated conversions
- Built-in video editor
Cons:
- Paid software (free trial available)
- Interface may feel advanced for beginners
If you want a powerful, stable, and high-quality solution for both DVDs and Blu-rays, Leawo is a leading choice.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Convert DVD to MP4 (Using Leawo as Example)
Below is a detailed guide showing how to convert DVD to MP4 using Leawo Blu-ray Ripper.
Step 1: Install and Launch Leawo Blu-ray Ripper
Download and install the application on your Windows or Mac system. After launching it, navigate to the “Convert” module.
Step 2: Load Your DVD
Insert your DVD into the drive, then click “Add Blu-ray/DVD” and choose “Add from CD-ROM.”
The software will scan and load the contents of your disc.
Step 3: Choose the Main Movie or Full Content
Leawo will let you pick between:
- Full Movie
- Main Movie
- Custom Mode
Choose based on your preference.
Step 4: Select MP4 as the Output Format
Click “Format” → “Common Video” → “MP4 Video”.
For high-quality output, you can also adjust resolution, bitrate, and frame rate.
Step 5: Set the Output Folder
Choose the destination where the MP4 file will be saved.
Step 6: Start the Conversion
Click the “Convert” button to begin the process.
Depending on your hardware and the disc size, this may take a few minutes.
Once done, you’ll have a clean MP4 file ready to store, watch, or transfer across devices.
FAQs
1. Is it legal to convert DVDs to MP4?
In most countries, it’s legal to convert DVDs you own for personal use. However, distributing or sharing ripped files may violate copyright laws. Always check local regulations.
2. Will ripping a DVD reduce video quality?
Not necessarily. Tools like Leawo Blu-ray Ripper and WinX allow you to maintain original quality or even enhance it with optimized encoding.
3. What’s the difference between ripping and converting?
- Ripping extracts the content directly from the DVD.
- Converting changes the extracted content into another format like MP4.
In most DVD tools, both steps happen together.
4. Why choose MP4 over other formats?
MP4 offers the best combination of:
- High quality
- Small file sizes
- Wide compatibility across devices
5. Can I convert encrypted or protected DVDs?
Yes, but not all software supports it. Tools like Leawo and WinX can handle encrypted DVDs effectively.
Conclusion
Whether you want to back up your movie collection or digitize your old home videos, learning how to rip DVD to MP4 is essential for modern media convenience. Free tools like HandBrake and VLC are great for basic needs, while professional software such as WinX and Leawo Blu-ray Ripper offers faster, higher-quality, and more reliable conversions.
By following the steps in this guide, you can easily convert DVD to MP4 on both Windows and Mac in 2025. Your videos will be easier to store, stream, and enjoy across all devices—anytime, anywhere.
