Freemake Video Converter - Detailed Review
Video Tools
Freemake Video Converter - Product Overview
Introduction to Freemake Video Converter
Freemake Video Converter is a versatile and user-friendly video editing and conversion tool developed by Ellora Assets Corporation. This software is primarily aimed at entry-level users, but it also caters to the needs of more advanced users.
Primary Function
The primary function of Freemake Video Converter is to convert videos between various popular formats. It supports a wide range of input and output formats, including AVI, MP4, WMV, MKV, DVD, and Blu-ray, among others. This capability makes it easy to ensure video compatibility with different devices such as iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Xbox, and Sony PlayStation.
Target Audience
Freemake Video Converter is designed for a broad audience, including beginners and advanced users. Its user-friendly interface and simple operation make it accessible to those with minimal video editing experience. It is particularly useful for content creators who need to convert, edit, and upload videos to platforms like YouTube.
Key Features
- Video Format Conversion: Freemake Video Converter can convert videos between multiple formats, ensuring compatibility with various devices and platforms.
- DVD and Blu-ray Burning: The software allows users to burn videos to DVD or Blu-ray discs, complete with menus and subtitles.
- Video Editing: It includes basic video editing tools such as cutting, rotating, flipping, and combining multiple videos into one file with transition effects. Users can also add subtitles, watermarks, and trim or crop videos.
- Photo Slideshows and Music Visualizations: Users can create photo slideshows with background music and music visualizations.
- Direct Upload to YouTube: The software enables direct video uploading to YouTube and other video-sharing platforms.
- Support for Multiple Devices: Freemake Video Converter provides preset format settings for various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and video game consoles.
- 4K Ultra HD Support: It can convert 4K videos and full HD films without losing quality.
- Audio and Image Conversion: The tool can convert audio files and images into video files, and extract audio from video clips.
Additional Capabilities
- Batch Conversion: Users can convert multiple videos at once to save time.
- Download from Online Platforms: Freemake Video Converter allows users to download and modify videos from platforms like YouTube, Vevo, and Vimeo.
- User-Friendly Interface: The software features a simple and attractive interface, making it easy for users to operate.
Overall, Freemake Video Converter is a comprehensive tool that simplifies video conversion, editing, and sharing, making it a valuable resource for a wide range of users.
Freemake Video Converter - User Interface and Experience
User Interface
The user interface of Freemake Video Converter is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, particularly for entry-level users. The interface is built using Windows Presentation Foundation technology, which provides a clean and intuitive layout. It features a simple and easy-to-use design with drag-and-drop functions, making it easy to import files into the program.
Ease of Use
Using Freemake Video Converter involves just a few basic steps:
- Download and install the software.
- Open the program and import the file you want to convert.
- Choose the desired output format from a list of available options, which includes a variety of presets for different devices such as Apple, Android, and gaming consoles.
- Optionally, use the built-in video editing tools to trim, merge, rotate, or add transition effects to your videos.
- Select the conversion settings and click the “Convert” button to start the process.
Overall User Experience
The software is generally easy to use, even for those with minimal video editing experience. The interface is clean and straightforward, with clear labels and options that make it simple to convert videos, rip DVDs, burn DVDs and Blu-ray discs, and create photo slideshows and music visualizations.
However, there are some limitations to the free version that can affect the user experience. For instance, the free version adds a promotional watermark to videos longer than 5 minutes, and the conversion process can be slower unless you purchase the “Gold Pack” or “Mega Pack” to access premium features and faster conversion speeds.
Overall, Freemake Video Converter is a practical and user-friendly tool for video conversion and basic editing, making it a good option for those who need to handle various video formats without a steep learning curve.
Freemake Video Converter - Key Features and Functionality
Freemake Video Converter Overview
Freemake Video Converter is a versatile and user-friendly video conversion tool that offers a wide range of features and functionalities, making it a valuable asset for both casual and multimedia enthusiasts. Here are the main features and how they work:Video Format Conversion
Freemake Video Converter supports the conversion of videos, audio files, and images into over 500 different formats, including popular ones like MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, FLV, 3GP, DVD, MPEG, and MP3. This extensive format support allows users to convert files into various media types, ensuring compatibility with different devices and platforms.Device Compatibility
The software includes optimized presets for converting videos to be compatible with various devices such as smartphones (Apple, Android, Nokia), tablets, gaming consoles (Xbox, Sony PlayStation), and more. This feature ensures that the converted videos can be played smoothly on different devices.Basic Video Editing
Freemake Video Converter offers basic video editing features, including cutting, merging, rotating, and flipping clips. Users can also add subtitles and watermarks to their videos. These editing tools are simple to use and allow for minor adjustments to the video content.Batch Conversion
The software supports batch conversion, enabling users to convert multiple files simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful when dealing with large media libraries, as it saves time and effort.Online Video Downloading
Freemake Video Converter allows users to download videos directly from over 40 online video sharing sites. This feature is integrated into the software, making it easy to convert and save online videos in various formats.DVD/Blu-ray Burning
Users can create DVD or Blu-ray discs with custom menus using Freemake Video Converter. This feature is useful for archiving videos or creating professional-grade multimedia projects. The software also supports burning videos to DVDs and Blu-ray discs, ensuring high-quality video output.Photo Slideshows and Music Visualizations
The software can convert photos and MP3 files into slideshows with background music. Users can edit these slideshows by moving, adding, deleting, and shuffling photos, and even enable a panorama effect. These slideshows can be saved in popular video formats and used in presentations, uploaded to YouTube, or burned to a CD/DVD.Upload to Web Platforms
Freemake Video Converter allows users to upload their converted videos directly to web platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and social media sites. The software provides optimized settings for web upload, ensuring the best possible video quality.AI Integration
While there is no explicit mention of AI integration in the features of Freemake Video Converter, the software does utilize NVIDIA CUDA technology for H.264 video encoding, which enhances the conversion process by leveraging GPU acceleration. This technology helps in speeding up the video encoding process, making it more efficient.User Interface and System Requirements
The software has a user-friendly interface based on Windows Presentation Foundation technology, making it easy to use even for beginners. The system requirements include Windows Vista/7/8/10, a 1 GHz Intel or AMD processor, 512MB of RAM, and 30MB of free hard disk space. An internet connection is required for downloading, uploading, and sharing converted files.Pricing
Freemake Video Converter is free to download and use, but it also offers a Mega Pack with additional premium features such as URL conversion, no watermark, and a DVD burner, available for purchase at $29.95. The free version leaves a subtle watermark on the converted files.Conclusion
In summary, Freemake Video Converter is a comprehensive tool that combines video conversion, basic editing, online video downloading, and DVD/Blu-ray burning capabilities, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to manage and convert their multimedia files efficiently. Freemake Video Converter - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Freemake Video Converter’s performance is marked by a few significant issues:
Conversion Speed
The free version of the software is notably slow in converting video files. This is a deliberate throttling to encourage users to upgrade to the paid version, which offers faster conversion speeds.
Resource Usage
During the conversion process, the software can be resource-intensive, which may affect the overall performance of your computer.
Watermark
One of the most significant limitations is the addition of a Freemake watermark to the converted videos in the free version. To remove this watermark, users must purchase the Mega Pack.
Accuracy and Output Quality
Format Compatibility
While Freemake claims to support over 500 formats, actual testing revealed that it supports around 123 formats. This discrepancy can be misleading for users expecting broader compatibility.
Output Quality
The software’s compressor feature can reduce the quality of the video file, which may not be ideal for users seeking high-quality conversions. Additionally, the free version’s output often includes a watermark, which can degrade the viewing experience.
DVD Ripping and Burning
Freemake can rip DVDs and burn videos to DVDs, but the free version has limitations, such as the inability to create DVDs with menus and interactive features. These features are only available in the paid version.
Ease of Use and Features
User Interface
Despite its limitations, Freemake Video Converter is generally easy to use, with a straightforward interface that allows users to convert videos, rip and burn DVDs, and perform basic video editing tasks like trimming, cutting, and adding effects.
Editing Tools
The built-in video editor is useful for minor edits but is not suitable for advanced editing tasks. Users looking for more comprehensive editing capabilities may need to use additional software.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Freemium Model
The software operates on a freemium model, which means the free version comes with significant limitations, including slower conversion speeds and watermarks on output videos. Users must upgrade to the Mega Pack to access full features.
Intrusive Promotions
The free version frequently prompts users to upgrade to the paid version, which can be intrusive and annoying for some users.
In summary, while Freemake Video Converter offers a convenient solution for basic video conversion and editing, it is hampered by slow conversion speeds, watermarks on output videos, and limited features in the free version. Users seeking faster and higher-quality conversions without watermarks may need to consider upgrading to the paid version or exploring alternative video conversion software.
Freemake Video Converter - Pricing and Plans
The pricing structure of Freemake Video Converter is based on a freemium model, which includes both free and paid options. Here’s a breakdown of the different tiers and the features available in each:
Free Version
- The free version of Freemake Video Converter allows users to convert videos between various formats, including MP4, MP3, AVI, WMV, DVD, and more. It supports conversion for multiple devices like iPhone and Android.
- However, the free version has several limitations:
- It adds a watermark to the converted videos.
- Conversion speeds are slower compared to the paid version.
- Some features, such as exclusive DVD menus and subtitle editing, are not available.
Paid Version (Mega Pack)
- To remove the limitations of the free version, users can upgrade to the Mega Pack, which offers several premium features:
- Removal of the Freemake watermark from converted videos.
- Faster conversion speeds (up to 4× faster).
- Additional features like a DVD burner and an easy editor.
- Access to features such as subtitle editing and exclusive DVD menus.
Pricing Options for Mega Pack
- 1-Week Trial: $0.95 – This allows users to try the Mega Pack for a week at a low cost.
- Monthly Subscription: $39.95 – Users can pay a monthly fee to access the Mega Pack for as long as they need it.
- Lifetime License: $299 – This is a one-time payment for lifetime access to the Mega Pack.
Freemake Video Converter - Integration and Compatibility
Freemake Video Converter Overview
Freemake Video Converter is a versatile and user-friendly video conversion tool that integrates well with various devices and platforms, making it a highly compatible solution for different needs.
Device Compatibility
Freemake Video Converter offers optimized presets for a wide range of devices, ensuring that your converted videos are compatible with various platforms. This includes smartphones (such as Apple iPhone, Samsung, and Android devices), tablets, gaming consoles (like Xbox and Sony PlayStation), and other devices like Nokia, BlackBerry, and more.
Format Compatibility
The software supports over 500 video, audio, and image formats, allowing users to convert files into multiple media types. It can output files in formats such as AVI, MP4, WMV, DVD, MP3, MPEG, 3GP, MKV, FLV, and many others. This broad format support makes it highly versatile for converting videos to be played on different devices.
Platform Compatibility
Freemake Video Converter is specifically designed for Windows operating systems, including Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, and even older versions like Windows XP and Vista. This ensures that users across different Windows versions can utilize the software without compatibility issues.
Additional Tools and Features
The software integrates various tools beyond just video conversion. It includes features for DVD and Blu-ray burning, video editing (such as cutting, rotating, and combining videos), creating photo slideshows with background music, and uploading videos directly to YouTube. These features make it an all-in-one solution for multimedia needs.
Hardware Acceleration
Freemake Video Converter also leverages hardware acceleration technologies like NVIDIA CUDA and DXVA, which significantly speed up the video conversion process. This integration with hardware capabilities enhances the performance and efficiency of the software.
Conclusion
In summary, Freemake Video Converter is highly compatible across various devices, platforms, and formats, making it a convenient and efficient tool for users with different multimedia needs. Its user-friendly interface and broad compatibility ensure that it remains accessible and useful for a wide range of users.
Freemake Video Converter - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
For any questions or issues related to Freemake Video Converter, you can contact their support team directly. Here are the steps to do so:
- If you encounter any problems, it is recommended to contact the support team within 14 days of key activation for refund-related issues or any other technical problems.
- You can reach out to the support team via the email address provided on the Freemake website: support.freemake.com.
- When requesting support, it is helpful to provide detailed information about the issue, such as screenshots of error messages, log files, and detailed descriptions of your actions.
Refund Policy
Freemake has a clear refund policy that outlines the conditions under which a refund can be requested. Key points include:
- Refunds are accepted only within 14 days after key activation if there are persistent errors that prevent proper use of the software and cannot be resolved by the support team.
- Refunds are also available if you accidentally paid for the same pack more than once within a year.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources that can help you use Freemake Video Converter effectively:
User Guides and Tutorials
- Freemake provides a step-by-step guide on how to use the video converter. This includes adding files, choosing a format or device, and converting your videos.
Feature Documentation
- The Freemake website details the various features of the video converter, such as converting videos between over 500 formats, downloading videos from popular sites, editing videos, and batch conversion.
FAQs
- There is a section dedicated to frequently asked questions that can help address common queries and issues users might encounter.
Software Updates
- Freemake regularly updates their software, and you can find information about new features and improvements on their news page. For example, the release of Freemake Video Converter 2.0 introduced new functionalities like online video conversion and Blu-ray video creation.
By utilizing these support options and resources, you can ensure a smooth and effective experience with Freemake Video Converter.
Freemake Video Converter - Pros and Cons
Pros of Freemake Video Converter
Versatile Format Support
Freemake Video Converter can convert videos into over 500 different formats, including popular ones like MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, 3GP, and more. It also supports various device-specific formats for devices such as iPhones, iPads, Samsung, Sony, and Xbox.
User-Friendly Interface
The software has an easy-to-use interface that does not require special skills, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
DVD Ripping and Burning
Freemake allows you to rip DVDs to digital formats and burn videos to DVDs, although the free version has limitations on creating full video DVDs with menus and interactive features.
Basic Video Editing
The software includes basic editing tools that allow you to trim, cut, rotate, and add effects to your videos. You can also add subtitles and watermarks.
Customizable Output Settings
Users can customize the output settings of their videos, including video resolution, bitrate, and frame rate.
Audio Extraction
Freemake Video Converter can extract audio from video files and save them in formats like MP3.
Batch Conversion
It supports batch conversion, allowing you to convert multiple videos at once, which saves time and effort.
Cons of Freemake Video Converter
Slow Conversion Speed in Free Version
The free version of Freemake Video Converter is significantly slower at converting files compared to the paid version.
Watermark on Converted Videos
The free version adds a large watermark to the converted video files, which can be removed only by upgrading to the paid version.
Limited Features in Free Version
The free version has several limitations, including restricted access to features like full DVD burning with menus and interactive features.
Ads and Confusing Pricing
The software is full of ads, and the pricing structure and upgrade options can be confusing and sometimes deceptive, such as the $1 trial scam.
Performance Issues
Some users have reported performance issues and a bad reputation on renowned rating sites, with an average rating of 2.77 stars from 111 reviews.
Not Ideal for Advanced Editing
While Freemake offers basic editing tools, it is not suitable for advanced video editing tasks and can reduce video quality when using its compressor feature.
Overall, Freemake Video Converter is a useful tool for basic video conversion and editing needs, but it comes with significant limitations in its free version, making the paid version a necessity for full functionality.
Freemake Video Converter - Comparison with Competitors
Freemake Video Converter
- Key Features: Freemake Video Converter supports over 500 video formats, including MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, and more. It allows DVD ripping and burning, preset profiles for various devices, HD support, and basic video editing like cutting, joining, and rotating. The free version includes these features, but the ‘Mega Pack’ premium subscription adds advanced features such as watermark removal, automatic cropping, and customized DVD menus.
- Limitations: The free version includes a watermark, and there is no Mac version available. The conversion speed is also slower compared to some alternatives.
Movavi Video Converter
- Key Features: Movavi Video Converter offers faster conversion speeds and additional editing options compared to Freemake. It supports over 180 file formats, auto device detection, and uses NVIDIA, Intel, and AMD hardware acceleration for efficient conversions. Users can trim, crop, rotate, adjust colors, stabilize videos, and add subtitles or custom watermarks. It also supports audio extraction and conversion.
- Advantages: Movavi provides more editing tools, faster conversion speeds, and better hardware acceleration. It also offers more than 200 presets for different devices and live chat support.
Winxvideo AI
- Key Features: Winxvideo AI is another strong alternative that supports 370 video/audio codecs and 420 profiles for various devices. It converts 8K/4K/HD videos, downloads online videos from over 1000 sites, and processes videos at speeds up to 47 times faster than Freemake. It also compresses video files by up to 90% without significant quality loss and upscales video quality.
- Advantages: Winxvideo AI offers superior speed, advanced video quality enhancement, and the ability to download online videos, making it a versatile option.
HandBrake
- Key Features: HandBrake is a trusted open-source video transcoder that supports encoding to MP4 and MKV formats, including the HEVC codec. It offers optimized presets for various devices like Android, iOS, and PlayStation. Users can customize encoding settings, frame rates, codecs, and add subtitles.
- Advantages: HandBrake is highly customizable, making it ideal for advanced users. It is free and does not include any watermarks or bundled software.
VLC Media Player
- Key Features: VLC is a popular media player that also has video conversion capabilities. It supports all current video and audio formats, including MPEG2, DivX, MP3, and DVD. VLC can convert video files without spyware or ads and also record the computer screen.
- Advantages: VLC is free, open-source, and widely recognized for its reliability and versatility. It does not include any watermarks and is a good option for those already familiar with the media player.
Format Factory
- Key Features: Format Factory is a multifunctional media converter and DVD ripper that supports various video, audio, and image formats. It is easy to use and allows full access to parameters for experienced users.
- Advantages: Format Factory handles video conversion with ease and supports a wide range of formats. However, it may include potentially unwanted programs in the installer, which is a drawback.
Summary
- Movavi Video Converter is ideal for those needing faster conversion speeds and more advanced editing features.
- Winxvideo AI excels in speed and video quality enhancement, along with the ability to download online videos.
- HandBrake is perfect for advanced users who want high customization options.
- VLC Media Player is a reliable and free option for basic video conversion needs.
- Format Factory is a good choice for those who need to convert a variety of media formats but should be cautious of the installer.
Freemake Video Converter - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Freemake Video Converter and what does it do?
Freemake Video Converter is a free video conversion software that allows you to convert videos between various formats. It supports over 500 video and audio file formats, including MP4, AVI, MKV, WMV, MP3, and more. The software also enables you to edit video files, rip and burn DVDs, and create photo slideshows.What are the system requirements for Freemake Video Converter?
To run Freemake Video Converter, your system needs to meet the following requirements: Microsoft Windows OS (Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, 7, Vista), an Intel, AMD or compatible processor with at least 1 GHz, .NET Framework 4.5, 256MB or more of RAM, and 50 MB of free hard disk space. Additionally, a stable internet connection is necessary for downloading videos, and a DVD-ROM or BD-ROM drive is required for burning DVDs or Blu-rays.What file formats does Freemake Video Converter support?
Freemake Video Converter supports a wide range of file formats, including popular and rare non-protected formats such as MP4, AVI, MKV, WMV, MP3, DVD, 3GP, SWF, FLV, HD, MOV, RM, QT, Divx, Xvid, TS, MTS, and Fraps. It also supports codecs like H.264, H.265 (HEVC), MPEG4, AAC, and AV1.Can Freemake Video Converter handle 4K and Full HD videos?
Yes, Freemake Video Converter can handle 4K, Full HD 1080p, and HD 720p files from HD cameras, camcorders, and Blu-ray without losing quality. It supports converting these high-resolution videos into various formats like MP4 to AVI.Does Freemake Video Converter offer any video editing features?
While Freemake Video Converter is primarily a video conversion tool, it does offer some basic editing features. You can trim, merge, and rotate video clips, as well as add subtitles. However, it lacks more advanced editing functions such as adding effects, setting brightness, cropping the video, or adjusting metadata info.Can I download videos from the internet using Freemake Video Converter?
No, Freemake Video Converter does not support downloading videos from the internet. If you need to download videos, you would have to use a different tool or software.Are there any limitations to the free version of Freemake Video Converter?
Yes, there are several limitations to the free version. For example, it does not support certain formats like AVCHD, DVD, and TIVO. Additionally, it lacks features such as background music, background images, and DVD template menus. The free version also includes watermarks on the output videos, which can be removed by purchasing a license key.How user-friendly is Freemake Video Converter?
Freemake Video Converter is known for its simplicity and ease of use. The process of converting videos involves just a few steps: adding your files, choosing the desired format or device, and clicking the “Convert” button. This makes it accessible to both new and experienced users.What are some common issues users face with Freemake Video Converter?
Some common issues include the software crashing during the conversion process, assertion failures, file opening errors, and the software not starting properly. Additionally, some users have reported stuttering in the output video after converting 4K MKV to MP4.Is Freemake Video Converter available for both Windows and macOS?
Freemake Video Converter is primarily available for Windows (supporting Windows 11, 10, 8, 8.1, 7, Vista), but it is not natively available for macOS. However, you might find alternative software that supports macOS if needed.Can I convert multiple videos at once using Freemake Video Converter?
Yes, Freemake Video Converter supports batch conversion, allowing you to convert multiple video files simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for handling large numbers of files efficiently. Freemake Video Converter - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Freemake Video Converter
Freemake Video Converter is a versatile and user-friendly tool that caters to a wide range of video conversion and editing needs. Here’s a comprehensive overview of its features, benefits, and limitations to help you decide if it’s the right tool for you.Key Features
- Video Conversion: Freemake Video Converter supports the conversion of videos between over 500 formats, including popular ones like MP4, AVI, WMV, MKV, and more. It also allows conversion for specific devices such as iPhones, iPads, Android devices, and gaming consoles.
- Video Editing: The software includes basic editing tools like trimming, cropping, rotating, and adding effects, subtitles, or watermarks to your videos.
- DVD and Blu-ray Support: You can rip unprotected DVDs and burn videos to DVD or Blu-ray discs with custom menus and subtitles.
- Audio Extraction: Freemake allows you to extract audio from video files and save them in formats like MP3.
- Web Upload: The software provides optimized settings for uploading videos to platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and social media.
User Experience
- Ease of Use: Freemake Video Converter has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for both beginners and advanced users to operate. You can import videos through the “Add Video” option or by dragging and dropping files into the program.
- Customization: Users can customize output settings such as video resolution, bitrate, and frame rate to ensure optimal quality.
Pricing and Limitations
- Free Version: While the software is free to download and use, the free version comes with some limitations, including a large watermark on the output videos and slower processing speeds. It also contains ads that can only be removed by upgrading.
- Premium Version: Upgrading to the premium version, which costs $39.95 per month or $59.95 for a lifetime license, removes these limitations and adds more powerful features.
Who Would Benefit Most
Freemake Video Converter is ideal for:- Casual Users: Those who need to convert videos occasionally and require basic editing features will find the free version sufficient, despite the limitations.
- Intermediate Users: Users who need more advanced features like customizable output settings, DVD burning, and audio extraction will benefit from upgrading to the premium version.
- Content Creators: Individuals who frequently upload videos to web platforms and need optimized settings for YouTube, Vimeo, and social media will find Freemake Video Converter very useful.