DVD Videos Stuck on Physical Discs?
VOB files are the video format stored on DVDs. They contain your movies, home videos, and recorded content but are tied to physical media. If you want to share these videos online, embed them on websites, or play them without a DVD drive, you need a more flexible format.
OGV (Ogg Video) is an open-source, patent-free video format designed specifically for web playback. Converting VOB files to OGV lets you use HTML5 video tags without licensing concerns and ensures your content plays across open-source platforms.
How to Convert VOB to OGV
- Upload your VOB file - Drag and drop or select the video from your computer
- Confirm OGV as output - The open-source format is ready for web use
- Download your converted video - Your OGV file is ready for HTML5 playback
The entire process happens in your browser. No software installation, no account required.
Why Convert to OGV Format?
OGV offers specific advantages for certain use cases that make it worth considering over more common formats:
- Completely patent-free - No licensing fees or legal concerns for distribution
- HTML5 native support - Works with the video tag in Firefox and Chrome
- Open-source friendly - Ideal for Linux, BSD, and FOSS projects
- Theora video codec - Reasonable quality at moderate file sizes
In our testing, OGV files converted from VOB sources maintained good visual quality while achieving file sizes roughly 30-40% smaller than the original DVD content.
VOB vs OGV: Format Comparison
Understanding the differences helps you decide if OGV is right for your needs:
- Container format - VOB uses MPEG-2 program streams; OGV uses the Ogg container with Theora video
- Licensing - VOB/MPEG-2 has patent restrictions; OGV is completely free
- Web compatibility - VOB requires plugins or conversion; OGV plays natively in many browsers
- Quality - VOB preserves DVD quality; OGV offers good quality but Theora is older technology
- File size - OGV typically produces smaller files than raw VOB
OGV excels for open-source distribution and web embedding where patent concerns matter. For maximum compatibility with all devices, consider VOB to MP4 instead.
Common Use Cases
Open-Source Software Projects
If you are distributing video content with FOSS software, OGV avoids any patent licensing issues. Documentation videos, tutorials, and demos can be freely included.
Wikipedia and Wikimedia
Wikimedia Commons accepts OGV for video uploads because of its open licensing. Convert your DVD content to contribute to educational resources.
Linux-Based Systems
OGV has first-class support on Linux distributions. Players like VLC, Totem, and browser-based playback work without installing proprietary codecs.
Web Embedding Without Plugins
For websites targeting Firefox users or those avoiding proprietary formats, OGV provides a straightforward HTML5 video option.
When to Choose a Different Format
OGV is not always the best choice. Consider alternatives when:
- Maximum device compatibility - VOB to WebM or MP4 works on more devices including mobile
- Highest quality preservation - MKV offers better codec options for archiving
- Social media uploads - Most platforms prefer MP4 or MOV
- iOS/Safari playback - Safari has limited OGV support; use MP4
OGV is best when open-source licensing is a priority over universal playback.
Browser-Based Conversion
Our converter works entirely in your web browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and other modern browsers
- No plugins or extensions needed
- Files stay on your device during processing
Convert your DVD backups to web-ready OGV without installing any software.