The Complete Guide to Converting M2TS to MKV

Jason

By Jason

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How To Convert M2ts To Mkv Without Quality Loss

M2TS and MKV are two popular video container formats with their own sets of benefits. M2TS is commonly used for high-definition Blu-ray discs and AVCHD recordings. However, the large file sizes can be inconvenient for storage and streaming. That’s where MKV comes in – it’s a versatile open-source format that makes your videos more compatible while retaining quality.

Converting M2TS to MKV can unlock many advantages. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know.

Plus, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section and key takeaways summary to use as a quick reference. Let’s get started!

Why Convert M2TS to MKV?

Here are the main reasons you may want to convert your M2TS videos to the MKV format:

  • Smaller file size – MKV compresses video and audio more efficiently, so you can save storage space.
  • Enhanced compatibility – MKV plays on more devices like smart TVs, phones, tablets, game consoles, etc.
  • Single file convenience – Media contents like video, audio and subtitles are bundled in one MKV file.
  • Open source freedom – MKV is a free and open format unburdened by patents or licensing.
  • Retains quality – Advanced codecs like H.264 ensure minimal quality loss during conversion.
  • Customization – You can fine-tune conversion settings to get the best results.
  • Easy streaming – Lightweight MKV files stream smoothly from Plex and other media servers.

For home media centers and portable devices, MKV offers some clear advantages over M2TS. Converting gives you more options.

Comparing Top M2TS to MKV Converters

There are many tools available to convert M2TS files into MKV. Here is an overview of some popular free and paid converter software:

Free M2TS to MKV Converters

Handbrake

  • Open source, constantly updated
  • Supports batch conversion
  • Limited to MKV or MP4 output
  • Advanced controls can be complex for beginners

Format Factory

  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Fast conversion speeds
  • No customization of video settings
  • Contains ads and bundles extra software

Freemake Video Converter

  • Intuitive drag and drop interface
  • Decent range of output options
  • Speed limited for large files
  • Watermark on converted videos

Wondershare UniConverter

  • Converts to nearly any format imaginable
  • Tons of editing tools included
  • Quality options are easy to configure
  • Hardware accelerated conversion speeds

Movavi Video Converter

  • Simple, minimalist user interface
  • Good balance of speed and quality
  • Useful presets for common devices
  • Does not support some niche formats

WinX HD Video Converter

  • Multi-threading delivers blazing fast conversion
  • Lossless video passthrough mode
  • Advanced preset editor to customize profiles
  • Pricier than competitors

Based on features, versatility, and value, Wondershare UniConverter stands out as a top choice. But there are solid reasons you may prefer both free or paid options.

Some of its main features include:

  • Convert videos to nearly any format, such as m2ts to MKV, convert videos to MP4MTS to MP4, and MP3 to M4R.
  • Edit videos to create them look a lot of professional
  • Burn videos to videodisk for sharing with families or friends
  • Transfer media files to your alternative devices
  • A video toolbox that enables you to repair video data, record desktop activities, cast videos to TV, etc.

How to Convert M2TS to MKV – Step by Step

The process of converting M2TS videos to MKV is straightforward with the right software. Here is a walkthrough using Wondershare UniConverter:

YouTube video

Step 1. Import M2TS Source Files

Launch Wondershare UniConverter on your Windows or Mac computer. Click the “Add Files” button and select the M2TS files you want to convert from the file browser. You can add multiple files to convert them in batch.

Add M2TS Files to UniConverter

You can also directly drag and drop M2TS files into the program interface.

Step 2. Select MKV as Output Format

Click the “Convert All Files To” menu and choose “Video” > “MKV” as the output format. Make sure the file extension displayed is .mkv to confirm you selected MKV format.

UniConverter Output Format Settings

Step 3. Customize Conversion Settings (Optional)

Click the gear icon next to each file to open the advanced settings menu. Here you can tweak parameters like:

  • Video codec (H.264, H.265, etc.)
  • Resolution
  • Bitrate
  • Frame rate
  • Audio quality
  • and much more

Tuning these values allows you to balance file size and quality. Use lower resolution and bitrates for increased compression.

Step 4. Start Converting M2TS to MKV

With your output format set and conversion parameters adjusted, click the “Convert All” button to begin transcoding your M2TS files into MKV format.

The conversion speed will depend on your computer hardware and number/size of files. For example, converting a 1-hour high definition M2TS video to MKV on a modern quad core PC with GPU acceleration takes only a few minutes.

convert m2ts to mkv using UniConverter

The software makes batch processing simple – just repeat the steps above to queue up multiple files, and UniConverter will convert them one by one.

Step 5. Save Converted MKV Videos

Once the conversion finishes, you can find the new MKV videos in the designated output folder. You can now enjoy them on any compatible device and take advantage of the MKV format!

And that’s all there is to it. As you can see, Wondershare UniConverter provides a quick and easy way to convert your M2TS media library over to the MKV format.

Expert Tips for Converting M2TS to MKV

Follow these tips from experienced users for optimal results when transcoding M2TS to MKV:

  • Preserve subtitles – Many M2TS videos from Blu-rays contain subtitle tracks. Make sure to choose an MKV output preset that keeps subtitles.
  • Keep audio – Don’t strip down audio to stereo if the source has quality 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound. MKV supports multi-channel audio.
  • Choose H.264 codec – This efficient advanced video codec plays correctly on virtually all media players. Avoid older MPEG-2 unless needed.
  • Lower resolution – Dropping from 1080p to 720p significantly reduces file size while still looking great on most TVs.
  • Adjust bitrate – Lower bitrates around 2-3 Mbps still provide adequate quality for smaller screens like laptops and tablets.
  • Use CRF rate control – With H.264 codec, CRF creates consistent video quality across frames while optimizing file size.
  • Check compatibility – Test the converted MKV on your target device before deleting the original M2TS to ensure proper playback.

With this handy guidance, you can get the most out of converting your M2TS videos library into the MKV format.

Troubleshooting Common M2TS to MKV Conversion Issues

Sometimes conversion does not go according to plan. Here are solutions to common problems that arise:

Issue: Converted MKV has no sound or corrupted audio.

Solution: Enable the “Keep original audio” option in your chosen converter software.

Issue: MKV video is choppy or plays improperly.

Solution: Adjust settings like frame rate to match source, or use a more compatible codec like H.264.

Issue: Subtitles don’t appear in the converted MKV file.

Solution: Be sure to choose a subtitle preservation setting when converting from M2TS.

Issue: Quality loss or video artifacts in the converted MKV file.

Solution: Increase target bitrate or use a lossless conversion mode in your software.

Issue: Converted MKV has incorrect aspect ratio or is stretched/squished.

Solution: Manually set the aspect ratio like 16:9 or 4:3 to match original M2TS video.

With the right troubleshooting, you can resolve most issues that arise during conversion.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions users have about converting M2TS to MKV:

Q: Is converting M2TS to MKV completely lossless?

A: There is usually some minor quality loss during conversion, but it is negligible with the proper codec settings like H.264 video and AAC audio. Prioritize quality over file size reduction for best results.

Q: What are the ideal M2TS to MKV conversion settings?

A: For the best balance, aim for H.264 video codec at 720p resolution, 2-3 Mbps video bitrate, AAC audio codec at 192 Kbps bitrate, 30 fps frame rate, and 16:9 aspect ratio to match most HD videos. Adjust as needed.

Q: How can I edit or trim M2TS videos before converting to MKV?

A: Use video editing software like Wondershare UniConverter’s editor tool to cut, trim, crop, add effects, and more to M2TS files prior to conversion.

Q: Does converting M2TS files to MKV reduce video quality over time?

A: No, the conversion is a one-time process. The output MKV does not lose any additional quality if you convert once and store it.

Q: Can I convert MKV back to M2TS format if needed?

A: Yes, many converter tools like Wondershare UniConverter allow reversible conversion. You can go from MKV back to M2TS simply by switching the output format.

If you need to extract subtitles from MKV, and convert ISO to MKV, click to read more.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Converting M2TS to MKV is a great option to save space while maintaining quality. To recap, here are the key takeaways:

  • MKV format compresses more efficiently than M2TS, reducing file size with minimal quality loss. This saves storage and bandwidth.
  • MKV has wider device support across smart TVs, mobiles, tablets, PCs, and more compared to M2TS.
  • Use advanced converter software like Wondershare UniConverter for fast, flexible, high-quality M2TS to MKV conversion.
  • Customize settings like lower resolution and bitrate for smaller file sizes – but not too low to maintain quality.
  • Test converted files before deleting originals to ensure proper playback on your target device screen size.

Converting your bulky M2TS video library to the versatile MKV format unlocks many benefits. Follow this guide to get started choosing the right software and settings to meet your specific video and audio needs.

Jason
Jason

Skilled software testing specialist with expertise in comparisons and research, passionate about blogging, reviews, and creating video tutorials.

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