Convert legacy QuickTime files for modern delivery
A QT file can contain older QuickTime media that a browser, phone, or upload service does not handle directly. MP4 is a practical delivery choice for those destinations. The conversion creates a new video file. It does not require the recipient to install an old QuickTime application.
QT and MP4: a QuickTime file versus a sharing copy
QT is an extension associated with Apple’s QuickTime container, which can hold video, audio and other tracks. It comes from the same container family as MOV. Its flexibility suited many production workflows, but older QT files may use codecs a current browser or application cannot decode.
MP4 is the MPEG-4 Part 14 container standardized by the MPEG group. It is common for online delivery and device playback. With H.264 video and compatible audio, it is a practical sharing format, although the .mp4 extension alone does not ensure every device can play it.
FastConvert creates a new MP4 delivery copy from a readable QT source. Re-encoding can change quality, and you should not assume that every extra track or piece of metadata survives. Keep the QT original when it is a production master or archive.
Choose the converter for your source
| File you have | Where to start |
|---|---|
| .qt | Use this page to create an MP4 viewing or sharing copy. |
| .mov | Use MOV to MP4, even if your computer calls it a QuickTime movie.MOV to MP4 |
| An existing MP4 | Check its video codec and the player’s requirements before converting again. |
Check legacy QT tracks before delivery
Identify the source extension
Use this page for .qt sources. If your QuickTime file ends in .mov, use MOV to MP4 so the upload filter matches the file. The extension describes the container rather than the full encoding inside it.
Test unusual archive material
QuickTime containers can hold many kinds of media. A damaged recording or an unsupported source stream may fail even when the filename is accepted. Start with one representative file from each source.
Keep a separate archive master
A delivery MP4 may use different compression and track handling from the QT original. Retain the source when additional audio tracks, future editing, or archival fidelity matter to the project.
How to convert QT to MP4 online
Use Recommended MP4 output at the original dimensions. Verify audio sync, duration, and playback in the target browser or application, then save those settings for subsequent QT batches from the same archive.
The free allowance is 2 files per batch, up to 100 MB each, and 20 conversions per 24 hours. No account or watermark. Files are uploaded for server-side processing, then scheduled for deletion after 24 hours on the Free plan.
Make review copies of a QuickTime archive
Sort QT files by project or export source and save an MP4 recipe for each group with the same delivery requirements. Keep the QT originals when their extra tracks matter.
A free account includes 1 saved conversion recipe. Paid plans add larger batches, more recipes and delivery to Google Drive or Dropbox after you start each batch.