Camcorder Videos Won't Play?
You recorded precious moments on your Sony or Panasonic camcorder, but when you try to share the files or play them on your computer, nothing works. Those .MTS files use AVCHD format, and many devices and software programs don't recognize it.
Converting to MPG solves this instantly. MPG is one of the oldest and most widely supported video formats, compatible with virtually every media player, video editor, and DVD authoring software ever made. In our testing, MPG files played successfully on systems dating back to the early 2000s.
How to Convert MTS to MPG
- Upload your MTS file - Drag and drop or select from your device
- Confirm MPG output - MPG is pre-selected for maximum compatibility
- Download your video - Ready to play, edit, or burn to DVD
No software installation required. The conversion happens in your browser, and your video is ready in minutes.
Why MTS Files Cause Problems
MTS is the file extension for AVCHD (Advanced Video Coding High Definition), developed jointly by Sony and Panasonic in 2006 for HD camcorders. While technically excellent, the format presents real compatibility challenges:
- Windows Media Player - Doesn't play MTS without additional codecs
- Older video editors - Many can't import AVCHD footage directly
- DVD authoring software - Often requires MPEG-2 format instead
- File sharing - Recipients may lack AVCHD playback capability
MPG uses MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 compression, which has been the industry standard since the 1990s. Every video player made in the last 25 years supports it.
When to Use MTS to MPG Conversion
Creating DVDs from Camcorder Footage
DVD authoring software typically expects MPEG-2 format. Converting your MTS files to MPG makes the DVD creation process straightforward and avoids transcoding errors.
Using Older Video Editing Software
If you're working with legacy editing software that doesn't support AVCHD, MPG provides an easy import path. The format is supported by virtually every video editor.
Sharing with Family on Older Computers
Sending camcorder footage to family members with older systems? MPG ensures they can watch without installing special software or codecs.
MTS vs MPG: Technical Comparison
Understanding the differences helps you make informed decisions:
- Compression - MTS uses H.264/AVC while MPG uses MPEG-1 or MPEG-2
- Resolution - MTS supports 1080i/720p HD; MPG can handle up to 1080p but is commonly used at standard definition
- File size - MTS is more efficient for HD content; MPG files may be larger at equivalent quality
- Compatibility - MPG works everywhere; MTS requires modern software
For archival or maximum compatibility needs, MPG is the safer choice. For modern editing workflows, consider MTS to MP4 conversion instead.
Quality Considerations
Converting from MTS to MPG involves transcoding between different compression methods. The video quality remains good for most purposes, though some detail may be lost due to the older MPEG compression. In our testing, the quality is more than sufficient for DVD creation and casual viewing.
For projects requiring the highest quality, you might want to keep your original MTS files as masters and use MPG for distribution purposes only.
Works on Any Device
Convert your camcorder videos right in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- Tablets and mobile devices
No downloads, no installations. Just upload, convert, and download your MPG file.