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Convert M4V to MOV - Unlock Your iTunes Videos

Transform iTunes M4V files into editable MOV format. Play and edit on any device.

Step 1: Upload your files

You can also Drag and drop files.

Step 2: Choose format
Step 3: Convert files

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Why M4V Files Are Limiting

You downloaded a video from iTunes but now you can't edit it in your video software. The file is M4V format, and many editing applications simply won't recognize it.

M4V is Apple's proprietary video format tied to iTunes. While it works fine within Apple's ecosystem, it creates problems when you need to do anything else with your videos. Converting to MOV format removes these barriers and gives you a universally compatible file.

How to Convert M4V to MOV

  1. Upload your M4V file - Drag and drop or select from your device
  2. Confirm MOV as output - MOV is preselected for maximum compatibility
  3. Download your converted video - Ready to edit and share anywhere

The entire process takes seconds. No software installation, no account creation required.

M4V vs MOV: Understanding the Difference

Both formats are Apple container formats, but they serve different purposes:

  • M4V - iTunes-specific, often has DRM protection, limited codec support (H.264, AAC, AC-3)
  • MOV - Professional format, no DRM restrictions, supports ProRes, H.264, AAC, PCM and many more codecs

In our testing, MOV files work seamlessly with Final Cut Pro, iMovie, DaVinci Resolve, and Adobe Premiere. M4V files often get rejected or require workarounds.

When You Need This Conversion

Video Editing Projects

Professional editing software like Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro prefer MOV format. If you're building a project that includes iTunes content, converting to MOV ensures smooth importing and editing.

Cross-Platform Sharing

While M4V is Apple-only, MOV works on Windows Media Player, VLC, and most video players. Share with Windows users without compatibility headaches.

Archiving Your Video Library

MOV is a more stable choice for long-term storage. It's a professional standard that won't be deprecated and doesn't tie your files to any particular service.

Quality Considerations

Since M4V and MOV are both container formats, your video quality depends on the codec inside. Our converter preserves the original video and audio streams whenever possible, maintaining the quality of your source file.

For already compressed iTunes purchases, expect the same quality in your MOV output. No additional compression is applied during container conversion.

Alternative Conversions

Depending on your needs, other formats might work better:

  • M4V to MP4 - Best for web sharing and maximum device compatibility
  • M4V to MKV - Ideal for storing multiple audio tracks and subtitles
  • M4V to WEBM - Optimized for web browsers and streaming

Choose MOV when you specifically need Apple ecosystem compatibility or professional video editing support.

Works in Any Browser

Convert M4V to MOV directly in your browser:

  • Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
  • Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
  • iPhone, iPad, Android tablets

No downloads required. Your files are processed locally for privacy and speed.

Pro Tip

If you're editing iTunes content in Final Cut Pro, converting to MOV first prevents import errors and timeline issues. The MOV container is what Final Cut expects natively.

Common Mistake

Trying to import M4V directly into non-Apple video editors. Many editors will refuse M4V files or produce errors. Always convert to MOV or MP4 first for reliable editing.

Best For

Video editors working with iTunes purchases who need to incorporate clips into larger projects, or anyone archiving their video library in a non-DRM professional format.

Not Recommended

If your only goal is playing videos on non-Apple devices, MP4 offers broader compatibility than MOV. Use M4V to MOV specifically for editing workflows and Apple ecosystem use.

Frequently Asked Questions

M4V is Apple's iTunes-specific video format that often includes DRM protection. MOV is Apple's professional video container that supports more codecs and works with video editing software. Both can contain the same video quality, but MOV is more universally compatible.

Our converter handles unprotected M4V files. If your M4V has FairPlay DRM from iTunes purchases, it must be authorized on your account first. DRM-free M4V files convert directly to MOV without issues.

No. Both M4V and MOV are container formats, not codecs. The conversion moves your video and audio streams to a new container without re-encoding, preserving original quality.

Yes. MOV is the native format for Final Cut Pro and works seamlessly with Adobe Premiere Pro. This is one of the main reasons to convert from M4V to MOV.

M4V is designed for Apple devices and iTunes. Windows requires additional codecs or software to play M4V files. Converting to MOV provides better Windows compatibility through QuickTime or VLC.

Typically just seconds. Since we're changing the container rather than re-encoding video, the process is very fast regardless of file size.

Yes. Upload multiple M4V files and convert them all to MOV in a single batch. No need to process files one by one.

For Apple-based workflows, yes. MOV supports Apple ProRes codec natively, which is preferred for professional editing. MP4 is better for web distribution and cross-platform sharing.

M4V files are primarily from iTunes Store purchases and rentals, including movies, TV shows, and music videos. Some older video applications also export to M4V format.

Yes. MOV is fully supported on all Apple devices including iPhone, iPad, and Mac. It will play natively in the Photos app and work with iMovie for mobile editing.

M4V Conversions & Related Converters

Quick access to the most commonly used file conversions.