HandBrake for Windows

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HandBrake for Windows is free video-encoding software that comes with the ability to rip DVDs. The open-source program supports a large number of file formats, including video files created with professional cameras. It uses different third-party tools and libraries like x264, x265, FFmpeg, and Libav to convert and create MKV, MP4, MP3, AVI, and Blu-ray files, among others. The program was originally developed for Mac OS but has since found its way to Windows devices. It is currently maintained by an active community.

What is HandBrake used for?

HandBrake is a cross-platform software program that you can use to rip DVDs and convert videos into different codecs and file formats. The program takes any video that you have and makes it new, so it can easily work on your smartphone, television, web browser, gaming console, and other devices.

For quick results, you can upload any video onto the tool and use the given presets to convert it into a format of your liking. The tool also offers an array of features to customize the encoding settings. Expert editors can use this program to apply effects, change frames, modify codecs, add subtitles, tweak settings, and do much more.

Helps adjust video quality

This video encoder provides users with the option to calculate bitrate, so they can adjust video quality based on the file size they require. It also offers various features like cropping, scaling, and grayscale, so they can easily edit videos before they’re processed. Moreover, users can use the tool to apply filters like Denoise, Decomb, Deinterlacing, and Deblock to their videos.

Option to add subtitles

The free software comes with place markers that allow you to jump to different scenes, add titles to sections, and create a scene menu. Using this feature, you can easily create different chapters and adjust the frame rate when required. Since the tool also comes with a subtitle option, you can use it for closed captioning or to import and superimpose subtitle files.

Offers batch conversion

Although video conversion takes time, the software offers a batch conversion feature that lets users convert all files in a folder in one go. It also comes with a queue option, so you can continue working on editing videos, while others get converted.

Supports a wide range of formats

One of the best parts about this program is that it supports a range of popular formats like MKV, MP4, and AVI as inputs. Moreover, the output formats and encoders supported by the tool are MPEG2, MPEG4, M4V, MP4, MKV, AVI, VP9, and Theora. You can also use the tool to convert audio files like AAC, MP3, AC3, Voris, and TrueHD, among others.

Suitable for experienced editors

HandBrake offers various features to make video-encoding easier. Unfortunately, that comes at the cost of beginner-friendly user experience. Although experts will find the tool comprehensive, beginners may feel overwhelmed. Nonetheless, novice users can learn to use the tool by referring to the comprehensive documentation available online.

In regards to experts, the tool is suitable for high-quality conversions. It offers advanced encoding options, in which you can customize your profile and add preferences. As long as videos don’t have any copy protection, you can use this software to rip DVDs and convert videos with ease. Beginners can make use of the in-built presets to convert videos to different file formats.

Is it safe to download HandBrake?

Yes. It is completely devoid of any virus and is safe for both personal and professional use. You can download and use open-source software for free.

Is HandBrake legal?

Yes, using it is completely legal. As long as you don’t encode copy-protected DVDs or videos, you won’t be doing anything illegal.

Is HandBrake a virus?

Licensed under GPL, this is a cross-platform video converter. The software is neither a virus nor does it contain any malware. You can use the tool for free for both personal and professional use.

Are there any alternatives?

While this software comes with many features, it may seem complicated to beginners. If you’re looking for alternatives, you should check out GiliSoft Video Converter, Total Video Converter, and Soft4Boost Video Converter.

Should I download Handbrake?

HandBrake is a popular video converter. It offers users an array of features, including effects, filters, chapter markers, closed captioning, and a bitrate calculator. It also provides support for almost all file formats—including MKV, AVI, MP3, Theora, and TrueHD, among others.

Apart from simple conversion, the tool allows users to edit, crop, and scale videos. The only drawback of the tool is that it isn’t beginner-friendly, and users have to refer to the documentation available online to learn all functions. For experts, however, this is quite comprehensive and worth downloading.