Why Convert M4V to MTS?
M4V is Apple's video container format, commonly used for iTunes Store purchases and Apple TV content. While it works seamlessly within the Apple ecosystem, you'll run into problems when trying to use these videos in professional editing software or with Blu-ray players.
MTS (AVCHD) is the high-definition format developed by Sony and Panasonic for HD camcorders. It's the standard for professional video workflows and plays directly on Blu-ray players without re-encoding. Converting M4V files to MTS opens up possibilities that Apple's format simply doesn't support.
How to Convert M4V to MTS
- Upload your M4V file - Drag and drop or click to select your Apple video
- Select MTS as output - The AVCHD format is ready for HD workflows
- Download your MTS video - Ready for editing or Blu-ray playback
The entire conversion happens in your browser. No software installation, no account creation, no waiting.
M4V vs MTS: Technical Differences
Understanding what makes these formats different helps you decide when conversion makes sense:
- Container format - M4V uses Apple's MP4 variant with optional DRM; MTS uses the AVCHD container developed for high-definition recording
- Video codec - Both typically use H.264, but MTS implements it in a way that's optimized for camcorder and editing workflows
- Audio support - M4V uses AAC or AC3; MTS supports Dolby Digital AC-3 and can handle linear PCM for uncompressed audio
- Resolution - Both support HD resolutions, but MTS is specifically designed for 720p and 1080i/p content
- Compatibility - M4V is Apple-centric; MTS works with Blu-ray players, professional editing tools, and Sony/Panasonic cameras
In our testing, MTS files imported more reliably into professional editing software like Adobe Premiere and DaVinci Resolve compared to M4V files, which sometimes required transcoding plugins.
When to Use This Conversion
Professional Video Editing
Many professional editing suites handle MTS natively because it's the standard output from HD camcorders. If your workflow involves mixing iTunes-purchased content with camcorder footage, converting M4V to MTS creates a consistent format across all your clips.
Blu-ray Playback
Blu-ray players are designed to play AVCHD content without any conversion. If you want to watch M4V videos on a standalone Blu-ray player or home theater system, MTS is the native format that just works.
Archive for HD Camcorder Projects
When archiving video projects that include both camcorder footage and other sources, keeping everything in MTS format maintains consistency and simplifies future editing.
What About DRM-Protected M4V Files?
Some M4V files from iTunes are protected with Apple's FairPlay DRM. Our converter works with unprotected M4V files. If your M4V file was purchased from iTunes before 2009, or if it's a movie rental, it may have DRM protection that prevents conversion.
For unprotected M4V files (personal recordings, iTunes Plus content, or files created by other software), the conversion works without issues.
Alternative Formats to Consider
MTS isn't always the best choice. Here are alternatives depending on your goal:
- M4V to MP4 - If you just need wider compatibility without the Apple ecosystem, MP4 is universally supported
- M4V to MOV - For Final Cut Pro or other Apple-oriented editing workflows
- M4V to MKV - For maximum flexibility with multiple audio tracks and subtitles
Choose MTS format specifically when you need Blu-ray compatibility or are integrating with AVCHD camcorder footage.
Works on Any Device
Our converter runs entirely in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- No plugins or extensions required
Your video files are processed locally. They never leave your device, so there's no waiting for uploads or privacy concerns about cloud processing.