MakeMKV
MakeMKV is a software solution for converting video files into the MKV file format. MKV stands for Matroska Video. Matroska is a specific type of container file format that is able to hold an unlimited amount of subtitle, audio and video tracks, as well as an unlimited amount of metadata, such as chapters, menus, and other information, in a single file. The file format is open standard/source and patent free, making it a broadly accepted and attractive solution for both indie and large-scale film developers. The actual video storage is quite similar to MP4, AVI and Advanced Systems Format, with the biggest difference being the fact that it's free of licensing and patents. Other file formats associated with Matroska are .MK3D, which is used for stereoscopic video; .MKA for files that only have audio data; and .MKS, which is used for subtitles only. Development on the MKV file format begain in December, 2002, by founder Steve Lhomme in France. It started as a fork of the well-known Multimedia Container Format. More information is available on the Matroska website.
- Convert a large variety of video files into the MKV file format
- Able to read Blu-ray (including those protected with AACS and BD+) and standard DVD discs
- All chapter information, meta-information (audio type, track language, etc.
- Remarkably fast usage, converting the files at around the same speed as the storage drive's data read speed
- A help data base, a convenient user forum and an F.
- A.
- Q section are available on the MakeMKV website to help new users get started
- Built-in debugging console
- Currently free to download and use, at least while the software is in beta
- MakeMKV is not officially signed by apple, so users who want to install the software on a Mac OS X device may have to configure gatekeeper options for proper functionality
- The software is in beta and certain areas on the website imply that the software will not longer be completely free after the beta period is over
Converting video file types is a common need in the video production business. MakeMKV, a free, beta software, is a great choice for producers who desire a solution to convert to the popular MKV file format, which is very often used for video and audio storage. The software is currently on version 1.12 as of March, 2018, and is available for download for Windows (both 64- and 32-bit versions, XP or later) and Mac OS X (64-bit only, version 10.6 or later). Users can also install MakeMKV on Linux operating systems by following a detailed instructional post on the MakeMKV forums.