Overview

HandBrake is an open-source video transcoder for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is best suited to people who need to convert video files without paying for a license; its lack of audio extraction makes it a poor fit for audio-only workflows.

The volunteer-built project has been around since 2003. Its broad codec and container support, batch conversion, hardware acceleration, and 4K output ceiling make it a capable choice for video conversion, while its scope remains focused on video.

Key features

Format and codec range: HandBrake converts video from nearly any format and can output MP4, MKV, or WebM using codecs including H.264, H.265, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, VP8, VP9, AV1, Theora, and FFV1. That range gives users options for compatibility and encoding choices without limiting the tool to one container.
Batch conversion: It can process multiple conversion jobs in a batch, a practical advantage when converting a collection rather than handling files one at a time.
Hardware acceleration: Support is included, which can help users with compatible hardware take advantage of it during conversion.
4K output: The maximum output resolution is 4K, sufficient for users working at that resolution but not a fit for output above it.
Video-only scope: HandBrake does not extract audio, so anyone whose main task is creating audio files from video should choose another tool.

Pricing

HandBrake is free to use and free and open source. Its free plan suits individual users and organizations that want video conversion without a software fee; there is no paid tier or subscription to weigh against a reduced feature set.

Platforms

HandBrake runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux. The macOS application requires macOS 10.13 or later, so users on older Macs will need another option. The current version is HandBrake 1.11.2. Community support and documentation are available, alongside a privacy policy, problem reporting, and a GitHub source repository.

Who it's for

HandBrake is a strong fit for people who need a free, cross-platform way to transcode video into widely supported formats, including users converting batches or targeting output up to 4K. Its open-source model and published community resources also suit people comfortable relying on volunteer-built software. It is not the right choice when audio extraction is essential or when a workflow needs output beyond 4K.

Pros and cons

Pro: A wide selection of containers and codecs supports varied video conversion needs at no cost.
Pro: Batch conversion, hardware acceleration, and 4K output make it useful for more than occasional single-file conversions.
Pro: Windows, macOS, and Linux support gives users across desktop platforms the same core option.
Con: No audio extraction means it cannot cover workflows that turn video soundtracks into separate audio files.
Con: The stated resolution ceiling is 4K, which rules it out for users needing higher-resolution output.
Con: The macOS requirement of 10.13 or later excludes older Mac systems.

Alternatives

Any Video Converter is worth considering for Windows or macOS users who want a free basic tier with unlimited video downloads, conversion across 1,000+ formats, and unlimited video compression.

WinX DVD Ripper offers a free trial and a Premium License at 39.95 USD per year, billed annually, for 3 PCs; consider it if that license arrangement fits your needs.

DivX Converter has a free Windows and macOS plan with video conversion, DivX, MKV, HEVC, and MP4 support, and device and format presets. Choose it if those specific formats and presets are a better match.

Format Factory is a free Windows desktop application with all functions free; it may suit Windows users looking for that desktop alternative.

Shutter Encoder is free across Linux, macOS, and Windows, with no limitations or advertising and donation support; consider it if that model is preferable.

Freemake Video Converter has a free, non-expiring plan with core conversion features, and supports Android, macOS, and Windows; it may fit users who want that platform mix.

Aiseesoft Video Converter Ultimate is a paid Windows and macOS option with a free trial; its Monthly VIP Plan costs 29.00 USD per month, billed monthly, and includes 1 PC and 300 additional credits.

FFmpeg is another free option for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Browse more options in Video Converter Software or File Conversion Software.

Verdict

Choose HandBrake if you want a free, open-source video transcoder with broad codec support, batch conversion, hardware acceleration, and output up to 4K across major desktop platforms. Its focused video scope is the main reason to look elsewhere: anyone who needs audio extraction should pick a different tool.

	GrabzIt	HandBrake
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Free trial	Yes	No
Paid from	Free	Free
Open source	No	No
Platforms	Android, api, extension, iOS, Linux, macOS, self-hosted, Web, Windows	Linux, macOS, Windows
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Batch conversion	Yes	Yes
Cloud conversion	Yes	—
API access	Yes	—
Deployment	web	—

GrabzIt vs HandBrake

GrabzIt

HandBrake