How to convert m4a to mp4 file

April 10, 2025

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Converting MPEG-4 Audio Files directly to MPEG-4 Videos (.m4a to .mp4 conversion) is certainly possible, but actually not necessary, since M4A and MP4 are essentially the same format.

All you need to do is simply rename the file's suffix from M4A to MP4.

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Understanding M4A and MP4 file formats

The M4A file format is an audio file format that stands for MPEG 4 Audio. It is commonly used for storing audio data and is a part of the MPEG-4 standard. M4A files are known for their high-quality audio and are often used in Apple devices and software like iTunes.

The MP4 file format, on the other hand, is a multimedia container format that can store video, audio, subtitles, and images. It is one of the most popular formats for video files due to its versatility and compatibility with various devices and platforms.

Why convert M4A to MP4?

Converting M4A to MP4 is useful when you want to add a visual component to your audio file, such as a static image or video, making it suitable for platforms that require video formats. This conversion is also beneficial for compatibility with devices or software that primarily support video files.

Best software for M4A to MP4 conversion

One of the best software options for converting M4A to MP4 is VLC Media Player. VLC is a free and open-source multimedia player that also offers conversion capabilities.

Steps to convert M4A to MP4 using VLC

Open VLC Media Player.
Go to Media → Convert/Save.
Click on Add and select the M4A file you want to convert.
Click on Convert/Save at the bottom.
In the Profile section, select Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4).
Choose a destination file by clicking Browse and set the file name with an .mp4 extension.
Click Start to begin the conversion process.

Alternative online converters

If you prefer an online solution, Online-Convert.com is a reliable option. It allows you to upload your M4A file and convert it to MP4 without installing any software.

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M4A vs MP4: format comparison

How the M4A and MP4 formats compare on the properties that matter most for this conversion.

Comparison of the M4A and MP4 file formats
Property	.M4A MPEG-4 Audio	.MP4 MPEG-4 Part 14
Open standard	Yes	Yes
Compression	Both	Both
Typical file size	Small	Small
Opens in a web browser	Yes, natively	Yes, natively
Further editing	Limited	Limited
Metadata support	Extensive	Extensive
Plain-text readable	No	No
Best used for	Music	Sharing and distribution
Introduced	2001	2001
Developer	MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) / ISO/IEC	Moving Picture Experts Group (ISO/IEC)
MIME type	audio/mp4	video/mp4

Open M4A file Open MP4 file

Suggested software and links: m4a to mp4 converters

Adobe Premiere Pro

A professional video editing software from Adobe. Edit and trim video. Add effects. Mix audio. Animate titles. Balance color. Supercharge your workflow with AI.

Blaze Media Pro

A multimedia converter

dBpoweramp Suite

A set of audio and ripping utilities for Windows

Freemake Video Converter

One of the most popular and successful free video conversion software

Helium Music Manager

A music library management program

iPad Video Converter Factory Pro

A multimedia converter for formats suitable for iPad tablets

MediaMonkey

A digital media player and library

Nero Recode

A multimedia converting tool for Windows

Nero Video

Video capturing software from Nero Suite

SUPER

A free universal media, audio & video converter

Tiny Audio Converter

Audio converter for Mac

VideoPad Video Editor

A video editing software for Windows

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