5 Methods to Convert Codec H.265 to H.264 (Increase File Quality)

Converting H.265 to H.264 is understandable, whatever the reason you need it. H.265 has a smaller file size and sharper quality, but at a lower bitrate. Yet, the H.264 codec has better support for devices, compression, and other factors you need. The good thing is, this article exists to help you do the process using the 5 best effective methods. Allow us to guide you in this matter. Kindly read the details below; we have everything you need to know

Can You Convert H.265 to H.264 Without Losing Quality?

Yes. You can always convert H.265 to H.264 without noticeable quality loss. That will be possible if you configure the proper encoder and choose the best tool for it. In this matter, the key elements are to always have the same resolution, a high bitrate, and to avoid settings that can lead to aggressive compression.

4 Best Ways to Convert H.265 to H.264 on Windows/Mac

Method 1: Video Converter Ultimate: Best for Batch & Fast GPU Encoding

Best For: Fast GPU encoding.

Speed: 30 times faster with GPU acceleration.

Batch Conversion: Up to 11 GB files.

Price: $37.50

Overall rating: 4/5

The first method here is using Video Converter Ultimate by FVC. It is a great tool that can help you manage popular and unusual media files. This includes transforming your H.265 to H.264 with ease. One unique feature you can enjoy in this article is its ability to intelligently recognize the video files you have from external devices. Overall, FVC Video Converter Ultimate is a great option to convert your H.265 to H.264 codec.

Steps to use FVC Video Converter Ultimate

Step 1. Open the software on your computer after you install it. Then select the Converter button.

Step 2. Proceed to click Add Files to import the H.265 videos you have.

Step 3. From the interface, select H.264 in MP4 as your output format.

Step 4. Go to the settings and enable GPU acceleration. Finally, click Convert All and let the tool process the files.

Method 2: FVC Free Online Video Converter:

Best For: Best for Quick, free, and no installation required.

Speed: Standard.

Batch Conversion: Available for small files.

Price: Free

Overall rating: 4.5/5

FVC Free Online Converter is the next tool on the list that can convert your H.265 to H.264 online. This tool requires no software installation. More than that, it is very easy to use and provides a straightforward process. Therefore, if you want to get things done with ease, then FVC Free Converter Online is a suitable tool for you. You can get and use it now because it is free.

Steps to Use FVC Free Converter Online

Step 1. Access the official website of FVC Free Video Converter. From there, click the Add a File button.

Step 2. Add the H.265 video you have. Then set the Encoder to H.264.

Step 3. After that, click the Save button and let the tool process the file. After a few seconds, your video is now ready.

Method 3: HandBrake: Best Free, Open-Source Desktop Tool

Best For: Free and open-source tool.

Speed: Moderate.

Batch Conversion: Yes, but with a queue system.

Price: Free

Overall rating: 4/5

HandBrake is a trusted open-source tool that can transform your H.264 to H.265 with ease. This tool has the capability to balance video quality and file size. More than that, it has a CRF setting that can give you precise control.

Steps to Use HandBrake

Step 1. Open HandBrake on your PC and import the H.265 file.

Step 2. See the Video Codec and select H.264 as the output format.

Step 3. You will also have the option to adjust the CRF (Constant Quality) to 22 to 24. Then click the Start button.

Method 4: VLC Media Player: The Hidden Convert Feature

Best For: SideQuest converting tool.

Speed: Normal.

Batch Conversion: No.

Price: Free

Overall rating: 4.2/5

We all know that VLC Media Player is popular for giving us great playback with different file formats. Yet, more than that, it is also capable of converting our H.254 to H.264 codec with ease. That is possible because it has a hidden feature to do so. Yet, you cannot expect a wide range of options for batch automation and advanced settings. Despite that, it can pretty much do the basic conversion you need.

Steps to Use VLC Media Player as a Converter

Step 1. Open VLC Media Player on your computer and see the Media option as you click on the Convert/Save setting.

Step 2. You can now add the H.265 file you have. Then click the Convert setting.

Step 3. Select H.264 in MP4 as your profile or output format.

Step 4. Select the destination of your file. Then click the Start button to begin conversion.

Method 5: FFmpeg (Best for Advanced Users & Pro Automation)

Best For: Advanced users and pro automation.

Speed: Fast and scriptable.

Batch Conversion: Yes, via scripts.

Price: Free

Overall rating: 4/5

FFmpeg is another on the list with its powerful command-line tool for professional media personnel. This tool can support you in converting files of unlimited size with customizable parameters. This tool is the most flexible option you need for an advanced workflow. Yet, this is not for beginners.

Steps to Use FFmpeg

Step 1. You need to install FFmpeg on your system. Then, please open the command line or terminal.

Step 2. You can now run the command: ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -c:v libx264 -crf 23 output.mp4.

Step 3. Adjust the CRF of the tool; you need to lower it to get higher quality, or vice versa.

Step 4. Please use a script now to automate batch conversion if needed. Then, review the output files in H.264 format.

Comparison Table of H.265 to H.264 Converters

You have seen different descriptions and guides on using the best converters for H.265 to H.264. Now, allow us to give you a comparison table of the five tools. Here, you will see a bigger picture to compare each tool so that the process of choosing your own will become easy. Take a look at the table below:

FAQs about Converting H.265 to H.264

Conclusion

We get to the conclusion that converting H.265 to H.264 is not possible with ease because of the amazing tools we have. In this post, you encountered five of the leading tools you can use, from quick conversion to advanced processing. For a recommendation, FVC Free Converter Online is probably the best among the options since it has a streamlined and straightforward process. On the other hand, Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate if you need a desktop tool. Use them now and make your video compatible across devices.