# MOV to MP4 (if codec is H.264/HEVC) ffmpeg -i input.mov -c copy output.mp4
Do not trust the file extension. Use these tools: codec mov
The versatility of the MOV format allows it to store data using several different codecs, each suited for a specific task: 1. H.264 / AVC # MOV to MP4 (if codec is H
Start: Do you have a .mov file? │ ├─ Need to edit in pro software? → Keep as MOV, use ProRes or DNxHD. │ ├─ Need to publish on web? → Transcode to H.264/AAC inside MP4. │ ├─ Need transparency (alpha)? → Use MOV with ProRes 4444 or Animation. │ ├─ File plays but missing codec? → Install VLC or transcode to H.264. │ └─ Just want smaller file? → Transcode to H.265/HEVC (if compatible) or H.264. │ ├─ Need to edit in pro software
