Note : Copying a DVD is commonly referred to as “ripping” a DVD. It can convert most common video files to MP4 or MKV with ease. HandBrake also accepts other video sources than just a DVD – including other video files! MKV on the other hand, although seemingly superior, is not (yet) as popular, but HandBrake supports MKV as well. Here MP4 is the most commonly used format (together with AVI). For example: XBMC box, Tablet PC, iPod/iPad, smartphone, media player in your car, or other media playback capable device. The purpose of the files we are about to make will be mainly playback on your computer or other device capable of playback of these kind of files.

These particular file types can hold multiple video, audio, and subtitle parts or so called streams.įor example videos in different angles, audio in different languages and qualities (Dolby Surround, Dolby AC3, regular stereo, etc), or subtitles in different languages or types (Closed Caption versus regular subtitles). So you might wonder what MP4 (or M4V) and MKV stand for?īoth are file types in this case they are so called containers that can contain multiple parts which can be video, audio, subtitles, etc. Other countries, like The Netherlands, are more liberal when it comes to this – Consumers pay a few cents extra for empty media, and for personal use you are allowed to make a copy (see Stichting Thuiskopie). But it’s all a matter of interpretation – so think for yourself before you act! Fair use proponents however claim that the law leaves room for making a private backup (in the US: DMCA or Digital Millenium Copyright Act). The movie industry in general does not want you to copy a DVD for any reason. Laws, when it comes to copying Copyrighted materials, differ from country to country. It is your responsibility to be aware of these laws and comply to them. See also our Disclaimer! This article is not intended to promote pirating Copyrighted Materials!

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