Updated Reduce MPEG2 File Size with VirtualDub A Beginners Guide

Updated Reduce MPEG2 File Size with VirtualDub A Beginners Guide

Amelia Lv12

Reduce MPEG2 File Size with VirtualDub: A Beginner’s Guide

Download VirtualDub MPEG2 & Use to Compress MPEG2 Videos

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

VirtualDub is a free video capture/processing tool for Windows platforms (2000/XP/Vista/7). And VirtualDub MPEG-2 is a modified version of VirtualDub that supports MPEG-2 import originally. However, just as the author said “This software is obsolete and will no longer be updated. For MPEG-2 and WMV support in the latest VirtualDub, try my plugins (MPEG-2 plugin for VirtualDub 1.8.1 or above - by editor)”.

Download and Install VirtualDub MPEG-2

You could download VirtualDub MPEG-2 here and extract files to a folder. Now you get a video processing software with MPEG-2 video import supported. To run VirtualDub MPEG-2, double click the VirtualDub.exe.

How to Use VirtualDub MPEG-2 to Compress Large MPEG-2 Videos

VirtualDub-MPEG2 is designed to work with mpeg2 video, such as Digital TV shows, un-encrypted DVD files (*.vob) and these video files are usually in big size. Now you can compress them using VirtualDub MPEG-2.

Step 1: Set Up Video Compression

Open your MPEG-2 video file through File/Open video file…, then go to Video/Compression to bring up the following dialog.

virtualdub mpeg2

As shown above, select the XVID MPEG-4 codec and click Configure button to make Xvid settings.

virtualdub mepg2 tutorial

Note: If Compression is disable, switch to Full processing mode first in the Video menu.

Step 2: Set Up Audio Compression

Audio compression setup is similar to video compression, go to Audio/Full processing mode, and again Audio/Compression to open the dialog, where MPEG Layer-3 is recommended.

Step 3: Start Compressing

Now it’s the time to start processing your video, here is how:

  1. Go to the File Menu
  2. Select Save as AVI…
  3. Select where you want to save the AVI and name it.
  4. Click Save.

Conclusion

The VirtualDub MPEG-2 needs some time to compress your video. The larger the video file is, the longer. But VirtualDub MPEG2 is a fast video processing software. Take a cup of coffee and relax. Once finished, use your favorite video player to see the compressing result.

If you don’t like VirtualDub MPEG-2 and would like to find some more powerful editors, you can try Wondershare Filmora , which supports Windows and Mac OS with high compatibility of input and output formats. Wizard-style interface and intuitive design will help you to compress video or any other editing operation easily and smoothly. Try it today by downloading the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

VirtualDub is a free video capture/processing tool for Windows platforms (2000/XP/Vista/7). And VirtualDub MPEG-2 is a modified version of VirtualDub that supports MPEG-2 import originally. However, just as the author said “This software is obsolete and will no longer be updated. For MPEG-2 and WMV support in the latest VirtualDub, try my plugins (MPEG-2 plugin for VirtualDub 1.8.1 or above - by editor)”.

Download and Install VirtualDub MPEG-2

You could download VirtualDub MPEG-2 here and extract files to a folder. Now you get a video processing software with MPEG-2 video import supported. To run VirtualDub MPEG-2, double click the VirtualDub.exe.

How to Use VirtualDub MPEG-2 to Compress Large MPEG-2 Videos

VirtualDub-MPEG2 is designed to work with mpeg2 video, such as Digital TV shows, un-encrypted DVD files (*.vob) and these video files are usually in big size. Now you can compress them using VirtualDub MPEG-2.

Step 1: Set Up Video Compression

Open your MPEG-2 video file through File/Open video file…, then go to Video/Compression to bring up the following dialog.

virtualdub mpeg2

As shown above, select the XVID MPEG-4 codec and click Configure button to make Xvid settings.

virtualdub mepg2 tutorial

Note: If Compression is disable, switch to Full processing mode first in the Video menu.

Step 2: Set Up Audio Compression

Audio compression setup is similar to video compression, go to Audio/Full processing mode, and again Audio/Compression to open the dialog, where MPEG Layer-3 is recommended.

Step 3: Start Compressing

Now it’s the time to start processing your video, here is how:

  1. Go to the File Menu
  2. Select Save as AVI…
  3. Select where you want to save the AVI and name it.
  4. Click Save.

Conclusion

The VirtualDub MPEG-2 needs some time to compress your video. The larger the video file is, the longer. But VirtualDub MPEG2 is a fast video processing software. Take a cup of coffee and relax. Once finished, use your favorite video player to see the compressing result.

If you don’t like VirtualDub MPEG-2 and would like to find some more powerful editors, you can try Wondershare Filmora , which supports Windows and Mac OS with high compatibility of input and output formats. Wizard-style interface and intuitive design will help you to compress video or any other editing operation easily and smoothly. Try it today by downloading the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

VirtualDub is a free video capture/processing tool for Windows platforms (2000/XP/Vista/7). And VirtualDub MPEG-2 is a modified version of VirtualDub that supports MPEG-2 import originally. However, just as the author said “This software is obsolete and will no longer be updated. For MPEG-2 and WMV support in the latest VirtualDub, try my plugins (MPEG-2 plugin for VirtualDub 1.8.1 or above - by editor)”.

Download and Install VirtualDub MPEG-2

You could download VirtualDub MPEG-2 here and extract files to a folder. Now you get a video processing software with MPEG-2 video import supported. To run VirtualDub MPEG-2, double click the VirtualDub.exe.

How to Use VirtualDub MPEG-2 to Compress Large MPEG-2 Videos

VirtualDub-MPEG2 is designed to work with mpeg2 video, such as Digital TV shows, un-encrypted DVD files (*.vob) and these video files are usually in big size. Now you can compress them using VirtualDub MPEG-2.

Step 1: Set Up Video Compression

Open your MPEG-2 video file through File/Open video file…, then go to Video/Compression to bring up the following dialog.

virtualdub mpeg2

As shown above, select the XVID MPEG-4 codec and click Configure button to make Xvid settings.

virtualdub mepg2 tutorial

Note: If Compression is disable, switch to Full processing mode first in the Video menu.

Step 2: Set Up Audio Compression

Audio compression setup is similar to video compression, go to Audio/Full processing mode, and again Audio/Compression to open the dialog, where MPEG Layer-3 is recommended.

Step 3: Start Compressing

Now it’s the time to start processing your video, here is how:

  1. Go to the File Menu
  2. Select Save as AVI…
  3. Select where you want to save the AVI and name it.
  4. Click Save.

Conclusion

The VirtualDub MPEG-2 needs some time to compress your video. The larger the video file is, the longer. But VirtualDub MPEG2 is a fast video processing software. Take a cup of coffee and relax. Once finished, use your favorite video player to see the compressing result.

If you don’t like VirtualDub MPEG-2 and would like to find some more powerful editors, you can try Wondershare Filmora , which supports Windows and Mac OS with high compatibility of input and output formats. Wizard-style interface and intuitive design will help you to compress video or any other editing operation easily and smoothly. Try it today by downloading the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

VirtualDub is a free video capture/processing tool for Windows platforms (2000/XP/Vista/7). And VirtualDub MPEG-2 is a modified version of VirtualDub that supports MPEG-2 import originally. However, just as the author said “This software is obsolete and will no longer be updated. For MPEG-2 and WMV support in the latest VirtualDub, try my plugins (MPEG-2 plugin for VirtualDub 1.8.1 or above - by editor)”.

Download and Install VirtualDub MPEG-2

You could download VirtualDub MPEG-2 here and extract files to a folder. Now you get a video processing software with MPEG-2 video import supported. To run VirtualDub MPEG-2, double click the VirtualDub.exe.

How to Use VirtualDub MPEG-2 to Compress Large MPEG-2 Videos

VirtualDub-MPEG2 is designed to work with mpeg2 video, such as Digital TV shows, un-encrypted DVD files (*.vob) and these video files are usually in big size. Now you can compress them using VirtualDub MPEG-2.

Step 1: Set Up Video Compression

Open your MPEG-2 video file through File/Open video file…, then go to Video/Compression to bring up the following dialog.

virtualdub mpeg2

As shown above, select the XVID MPEG-4 codec and click Configure button to make Xvid settings.

virtualdub mepg2 tutorial

Note: If Compression is disable, switch to Full processing mode first in the Video menu.

Step 2: Set Up Audio Compression

Audio compression setup is similar to video compression, go to Audio/Full processing mode, and again Audio/Compression to open the dialog, where MPEG Layer-3 is recommended.

Step 3: Start Compressing

Now it’s the time to start processing your video, here is how:

  1. Go to the File Menu
  2. Select Save as AVI…
  3. Select where you want to save the AVI and name it.
  4. Click Save.

Conclusion

The VirtualDub MPEG-2 needs some time to compress your video. The larger the video file is, the longer. But VirtualDub MPEG2 is a fast video processing software. Take a cup of coffee and relax. Once finished, use your favorite video player to see the compressing result.

If you don’t like VirtualDub MPEG-2 and would like to find some more powerful editors, you can try Wondershare Filmora , which supports Windows and Mac OS with high compatibility of input and output formats. Wizard-style interface and intuitive design will help you to compress video or any other editing operation easily and smoothly. Try it today by downloading the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

FCPX Visual Storytelling: Using Freeze Frames and Slow Motion for Impact

Final Cut Pro X: Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Top Time-Lapse Video Editors : Free and Paid Options

Best Time-Lapse Video Editing Software in 2024

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

 Filmora Timelapse video making

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

 made  Timelapse video with Filmora

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Download Filmora Win Version Download Filmora Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

 Filmora Timelapse video making

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

 made  Timelapse video with Filmora

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Download Filmora Win Version Download Filmora Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

 Filmora Timelapse video making

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

 made  Timelapse video with Filmora

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Download Filmora Win Version Download Filmora Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

 Filmora Timelapse video making

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

 made  Timelapse video with Filmora

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

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Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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M4R Conversion Basics: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Before You Learn M4R Converter: Some Things You Should Know

An easy yet powerful editor

Numerous effects to choose from

Detailed tutorials provided by the official channel

Try It Free Try It Free

M4R is an audio file extension that was created by Apple to separate regular songs and audio from ringtones

As for methods of converting from your more general file extension formats to M4R, we’ve prepared a whole guide below — where we’ve outlined some of the more important things that you should know about M4R converters and how to use them.

In this article

01 [Why Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 2)

03 [How to Convert M4A to M4R?](#Part 3)

Part 1 Why Convert MP3 to M4R?

Let’s start with a bit of an overview of M4R and M4R Converters first! We touched upon this subject in the introduction, but we thought it would be best to expand on the subject here for better understanding. First, let’s talk about what an M4R converter is usually like. Then, let’s talk about why someone might convert from MP3 to M4R.

01M4R Converter Key Features

Here’s a list of some key features that you should look for in an M4R Converter:

Your average M4R Converter should allow you to convert to M4R from general audio files. That includes the following: MP3, WAV, WMA, AIFF, AMR, FLAC, MKA, WMV, and so much more.

It should also allow you to ‘extract’ audio from videos (whether it is a MPEG-4, MOV, AVI, etc.)

The M4R converter would prove even more useful if it allowed you to trim small segments of audio or video (with exact start and end time) so that you can specify which part should play as a ringtone.

A method of previewing trimmed content prior to conversion would also be helpful so that you won’t have to undergo the process again and again.

Its settings should also be adjustable or the interface intuitive, allowing you to easily choose or discover the output folder, adjust audio bitrate, and so on.

02Best Three Reasons Why Convert MP3 to M4R

There are several reasons why you might want to use an M4R converter to change from MP3 to M4R, these reasons include:

Creating iPhone Ringtone: The main purpose of converting to M4R is, of course, to create iPhone ringtones. This file extension was created by Apple specifically to differentiate between songs and ringtones. And, if you’re a regular iOS user but are not a fan of the basic iOS ringtones, learning how to create M4R files would be beneficial in opening your horizons.

Transfer Ringtones to iPhone: Of course, once the M4R is created for use, it would need to be transferred. This is much easier if it stays in this format!

Making General M4R Audio: Although not as common, some users see the benefit of using M4R audio for other reasons (i.e., content creators sometimes use M4R audio as a sound-effect for videos). Thus, knowing how to convert from MP3 to MP4 usually proves to be useful for them.

Part 2 How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?

Now, let’s start with a more in-depth tutorial on how to actually convert MP3 to M4R! In this case, specifically, we’ll be providing three different examples. Starting with an online solution and then following it up with the general iTunes conversion and the more involved software conversion!

01How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online?

As mentioned, the first M4R Converter on this list is an online one! There are plenty of these kinds of online converter tools available, and they all pretty much work the same way, so the example we’ll be showing below is more of an all-purpose kind of affair. However, just in case you’re curious, the tool we’ll be using for our examples is the Converter from Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Visit Online Converter Website!

First! Open the M4R Converter online tool that you want to use! If you want to follow along with our examples, a URL has been provided for you below:

Open M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload MP3 File

Next, it’s time to upload the MP3 file that you want to convert to M4R!

Usually, all you have to do for this is click the ‘Upload’ button or drag-and-drop the file onto the specified area. But, in some cases, the M4R converter may also allow you to upload via a link or from cloud-based storage (i.e., Dropbox.)

Upload MP3 File for Conversion

**Step 3: Select M4R as Output Format!

Once your MP3 file has been uploaded, select the format that you want it to be converted into. This may have defaulted to M4R or you may be given the chance to choose yourself (as is shown in the image below.)

Select M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Select Convert!

The next thing you need to do is to simply select the ‘CONVERT’ option to begin processing the change from MP3 to M4R!

Select Convert Option

**Step 5: Download Converter M4R!

Once the conversion is done, you should now have been given the option to download the finished M4R. Click ‘DOWNLOAD’ and you’re done!

Download Converted File

012. How to convert MP3 to M4R on iTunes?

Of course, as an Apple File Extension, it only makes sense that Apple provides its users an easy way to convert general audio to M4R! In this case, we’ll be showing you another method to convert from MP3 to M4R with Apple’s own iTunes! Of course, if you want to follow along with this next example, you’ll have to download and install the software (for Windows users) before proceeding.

**Step 1: Add File or Folder to Library!

Once you have iTunes installed, launch the program and go to ‘File’ > ‘Add File to Library’ or ‘Add Folder to Library’ to upload the MP3 file(s) that you want to convert to M4R!

Add MP3 file(s) to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Select MP3 and Adjust Timing!

Since M4R ringtones are limited to 40 seconds only, you’ll need to adjust timing prior to conversion if you want the ringtone to start and end at a specific time.

This is possible to do by selecting the song from your library and right clicking so you can access the ‘OPTIONS’ tab (shown below)! Under the Options tab, you’ll be able to specify the start and stop time for your chosen MP3!

Click ‘OK’ when done in order to save any changes!

Adjust Ringtone Timing

**Step 3: Convert to Version!

Next, with the MP3 file still selected, go to the ‘FILE’ tab (shown in the image below) and then click ‘CONVERT’ > ‘Create Version’!

Create Version of MP3

**Step 4: Go to the Destination Folder!

After the conversion has been finished, locate the file’s destination folder. You’ll notice that the file extension of the file is .M4A but this is easy enough to change.

Just rename the file extension to .M4R (example shown below) and click ‘YES’ to confirm the change! In this way, you’ve managed to convert MP3 to M4R with iTunes!

Change from M4A to M4R

013. How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online Free with Ringtone Maker?

For this last example of converting MP3 to M4R, we’ve decided to show-off the ringtone maker, Wondershare TunesGo! This program is, of course, more than just a ringtone maker, but the function that we’ll be exploring will be the process of making an iPhone Ringtone from an MP3 file to an M4R (start to finish!)

**Step 1: Launch Program and Connect iPhone to Computer!

First, launch the M4R converter software on your desktop and connect your iPhone to your computer! If you want to use the program that we’re showing off in this example, the URL has been provided below:

Launch Program and Connect iPhone

**Step 2: Select Ringtone Maker

Once the program has been launched, go to the ‘MUSIC’ tab and select “Ringtone Maker” (pointed out in the image below.)

Select ‘Ringtone Maker’ Option

**Step 3: Select Music File!

A secondary window should appear after you select the ‘Ringtone Maker’ option. Here, the first thing you have to do is upload the music file that you want to convert.

For the software that we’re using as an example, you can choose to upload ‘Local Music’ from your computer or ‘Device Music’ from the music that you have stored in your connected iPhone. We’ll be explaining the different methods to select a music file in the three following steps!

Upload Locally or Through Device

**Step 4: Local Upload - Open!

If you select ‘Local Music’ a system window will appear asking you to select the music file that you want to convert to M4R. Do so and click ‘OPEN!’

Browse Music File Locally

**Step 5: Device Music - SELECT!

For the ‘Device Music’ option, another program window will appear. This time, with all the music on your device. You can select the music file you want to convert from here! Click ‘Select’ when done!

Browse Music on Device

**Step 6: TunesGo Library!

For the last method of selecting a music file, all you have to do is select a file from the ‘MUSIC’ tab of TunesGo, right-click on said file, and then select ‘Ringtone Maker’ on the pop-up that appears (shown below).

Software Library Upload

**Step 7: Trim and Save!

Once you’ve chosen the music file you want to convert, you can now:

Trim the file to specify which part of the file you want to convert (40 seconds only for a proper Ringtone!)

Use the ‘Ringtone Audition’ option to preview your trimmed audio.

And, finally, you can save the finished ringtone directly to your PC or Device!

In this way, not only have you managed to convert from MP3 to M4R cleanly, but you can also use it right away on either your PC or iPhone!

Trim Audio and Save

Part 3 How to Convert M4A to M4R?

Another Apple extension file that you might recognize is M4A! This was mentioned briefly in a previous tutorial, but it might be more familiar to others as ‘compressed’ Apple Music. This is what your audio becomes when processed through iTunes. It’s also known as MPEG-4 Audio, and its main purpose is to compress the size of an audio file (compared to MP3) without compromising the quality.

01How to convert M4A to M4R on Windows?

This process was mentioned briefly in Part 2, Section 3 of this article, but we’ll be going through the easiest method of converting M4A to M4R on Windows below! This method is possible only because the formats are pretty much the same. The only difference lies in how they are categorized.

**Step 1: View File Extensions!

The first step to convert M4A to M4R is to open the folder in which your M4A audio is stored. There, make sure that you have ‘File Name Extensions’ selected under the ‘VIEW’ tab (pointed out in the image below).

This will allow you to view and edit the file extension of a given file.

View File Extensions on Windows

**Step 2: Rename M4A to M4R!

Next, select the M4A that you want to convert and right-click so that you can choose the ‘Rename’ option on the pop-up that appears.

Rename M4A to M4R

**Step 3: Change M4A to M4R

With ‘File Name Extensions’ on, you can edit the file extension as well! Of course, this is not possible for all conversions. But, as mentioned, since M4A and M4R files are pretty much the same, you can do so without damaging the file!

Meaning, you can change M4A to M4R without worrying about it being unusable!

Change M4A to M4R

012. How to Convert M4A to M4R with iTunes

This process was already explained in Part 2, Section 2 of this article. But, since it’s important to provide this perspective we’ll be going through the process again. This time, with the intention of converting an M4A music file to an M4R!

**Step 1: Add File to iTunes Library!

First, add the M4A file to your iTunes library! (You can use the drag-and-drop feature or select ‘Add File’ or ‘Add folder’ under the ‘FILE’ tab).

Add File to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Create to M4R!

Once your M4A audio file has been uploaded, make sure that it’s selected and then select ‘Create Version’ for it (the option can be found under the ‘FILE’ tab > ‘Convert’!)

Create version of M4A

**Step 3: Convert M4A to M4R

Once the version of the file has been created (which comes out as M4A), you can use the method we showed in Section 3, Part 1 of this article to change the M4A to M4R simply by rewriting the file extension name.

Convert M4A to M4R

03How to Convert M4A to M4R Online

For this next part, we’ll be echoing another one of our earlier tutorials! Only, this time, we’ll be focusing on converting M4A to M4R online with an M4R converter online! Specifically, the one we introduced previously — Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Online M4R Converter

Audio Tool Set offers an M4A to M4R converter that you can select under the ‘CONVERT AUDIO’ tab!

Audio Tool Set - M4A to M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload M4A File!

Once you’ve been moved to the free M4A to M4R converter, select the ‘UPLOAD M4A’ option to browse your PC for the M4A file that you want to convert.

Upload M4A file for Conversion

**Step 3: Confirm M4R Conversion Format!

If you’re using the M4A to M4R Converter you can skip this step. But, if not, make sure that you have chosen ‘M4R’ as your desired conversion format!

Confirm M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Convert M4A to M4R!

With all of that in order, select ‘CONVERT’ to move forward.

Convert M4A to M4R

**Step 5: Download Converted M4R!

Finally, with the conversion done, you can now download the converted file to use as you will! This can be done by selecting the ‘DOWNLOAD’ option!

Download Converted File

04How to Create and How to Open an M4A File?

If you want detailed instructions on how to create an M4A file, please refer to Part 2, Section 2 of this article, or Part 3, Section 2. In both sections, we demonstrated how one can create an M4A file by using the ‘Create Version’ feature that iTunes offers.

In that same vein, if you want to be able to open an M4A file, iTunes is your best bet! Although, it should also be said that some of the more advanced media players (and audio players), like QuickTime or Media Player, can open M4A files as well!

iTunes Software

05Which Other Formats M4A Can Be Converted into and Why?

There are numerous file formats that you can convert M4A into. If you want examples: you can convert M4A to M4R, MP3 to M4A, WAV to M4A, FLAC to M4A, OGG to M4A, WMA to M4A, and so much more! Of course, if you want more advanced M4A conversions, you might want to consider using a more advanced tool. One such M4A converter that we recommend is Filmora Pro!

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an all-in-one video editing software that will allow you to convert M4A to M4R (and all sorts of other audio and video file formats) so that you can make use of the file for all your projects! The best part of using a video editor like Filmora, of course, is that once you’ve converted the file, you can use it immediately — there’s no need to wait, you can finish your project right then and there, making it unnecessary for you to go searching for any other solution.

Wondershare Filmora - Best Video Editor for Mac/Windows

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5,481,435 people have downloaded it.

Build unique custom animations without breaking a sweat.

Focus on creating epic stories and leave the details to Filmora’s auto features.

Start a creative adventure with drag & drop effects and endless possibilities.

Filmora simplifies advanced features to save you time and effort.

Filmora cuts out repetition so you can move on to your next creative breakthrough.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

What’s the point of M4R Converters? Well, it’s most relevant to iOS users! Especially those who are tired of listening to the same boring tones on their phone over and over again!

The M4R file format was created by Apple to differentiate music from ringtones. And, by becoming familiar with the process (which we’ve illustrated in many details in the article above), you can flex your creativity a bit and control just what tones are coming out of your phone!

It’s not all that difficult to create M4Rs either! There are several methods that you can try — online, iTunes, third-party software, and so much more!

And, you can make these ringtones from pretty much any format — whether you’re converting from MP3, MOV, WAV, FLAC, WMA, etc.

Try It Free Try It Free

M4R is an audio file extension that was created by Apple to separate regular songs and audio from ringtones

As for methods of converting from your more general file extension formats to M4R, we’ve prepared a whole guide below — where we’ve outlined some of the more important things that you should know about M4R converters and how to use them.

In this article

01 [Why Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 2)

03 [How to Convert M4A to M4R?](#Part 3)

Part 1 Why Convert MP3 to M4R?

Let’s start with a bit of an overview of M4R and M4R Converters first! We touched upon this subject in the introduction, but we thought it would be best to expand on the subject here for better understanding. First, let’s talk about what an M4R converter is usually like. Then, let’s talk about why someone might convert from MP3 to M4R.

01M4R Converter Key Features

Here’s a list of some key features that you should look for in an M4R Converter:

Your average M4R Converter should allow you to convert to M4R from general audio files. That includes the following: MP3, WAV, WMA, AIFF, AMR, FLAC, MKA, WMV, and so much more.

It should also allow you to ‘extract’ audio from videos (whether it is a MPEG-4, MOV, AVI, etc.)

The M4R converter would prove even more useful if it allowed you to trim small segments of audio or video (with exact start and end time) so that you can specify which part should play as a ringtone.

A method of previewing trimmed content prior to conversion would also be helpful so that you won’t have to undergo the process again and again.

Its settings should also be adjustable or the interface intuitive, allowing you to easily choose or discover the output folder, adjust audio bitrate, and so on.

02Best Three Reasons Why Convert MP3 to M4R

There are several reasons why you might want to use an M4R converter to change from MP3 to M4R, these reasons include:

Creating iPhone Ringtone: The main purpose of converting to M4R is, of course, to create iPhone ringtones. This file extension was created by Apple specifically to differentiate between songs and ringtones. And, if you’re a regular iOS user but are not a fan of the basic iOS ringtones, learning how to create M4R files would be beneficial in opening your horizons.

Transfer Ringtones to iPhone: Of course, once the M4R is created for use, it would need to be transferred. This is much easier if it stays in this format!

Making General M4R Audio: Although not as common, some users see the benefit of using M4R audio for other reasons (i.e., content creators sometimes use M4R audio as a sound-effect for videos). Thus, knowing how to convert from MP3 to MP4 usually proves to be useful for them.

Part 2 How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?

Now, let’s start with a more in-depth tutorial on how to actually convert MP3 to M4R! In this case, specifically, we’ll be providing three different examples. Starting with an online solution and then following it up with the general iTunes conversion and the more involved software conversion!

01How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online?

As mentioned, the first M4R Converter on this list is an online one! There are plenty of these kinds of online converter tools available, and they all pretty much work the same way, so the example we’ll be showing below is more of an all-purpose kind of affair. However, just in case you’re curious, the tool we’ll be using for our examples is the Converter from Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Visit Online Converter Website!

First! Open the M4R Converter online tool that you want to use! If you want to follow along with our examples, a URL has been provided for you below:

Open M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload MP3 File

Next, it’s time to upload the MP3 file that you want to convert to M4R!

Usually, all you have to do for this is click the ‘Upload’ button or drag-and-drop the file onto the specified area. But, in some cases, the M4R converter may also allow you to upload via a link or from cloud-based storage (i.e., Dropbox.)

Upload MP3 File for Conversion

**Step 3: Select M4R as Output Format!

Once your MP3 file has been uploaded, select the format that you want it to be converted into. This may have defaulted to M4R or you may be given the chance to choose yourself (as is shown in the image below.)

Select M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Select Convert!

The next thing you need to do is to simply select the ‘CONVERT’ option to begin processing the change from MP3 to M4R!

Select Convert Option

**Step 5: Download Converter M4R!

Once the conversion is done, you should now have been given the option to download the finished M4R. Click ‘DOWNLOAD’ and you’re done!

Download Converted File

012. How to convert MP3 to M4R on iTunes?

Of course, as an Apple File Extension, it only makes sense that Apple provides its users an easy way to convert general audio to M4R! In this case, we’ll be showing you another method to convert from MP3 to M4R with Apple’s own iTunes! Of course, if you want to follow along with this next example, you’ll have to download and install the software (for Windows users) before proceeding.

**Step 1: Add File or Folder to Library!

Once you have iTunes installed, launch the program and go to ‘File’ > ‘Add File to Library’ or ‘Add Folder to Library’ to upload the MP3 file(s) that you want to convert to M4R!

Add MP3 file(s) to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Select MP3 and Adjust Timing!

Since M4R ringtones are limited to 40 seconds only, you’ll need to adjust timing prior to conversion if you want the ringtone to start and end at a specific time.

This is possible to do by selecting the song from your library and right clicking so you can access the ‘OPTIONS’ tab (shown below)! Under the Options tab, you’ll be able to specify the start and stop time for your chosen MP3!

Click ‘OK’ when done in order to save any changes!

Adjust Ringtone Timing

**Step 3: Convert to Version!

Next, with the MP3 file still selected, go to the ‘FILE’ tab (shown in the image below) and then click ‘CONVERT’ > ‘Create Version’!

Create Version of MP3

**Step 4: Go to the Destination Folder!

After the conversion has been finished, locate the file’s destination folder. You’ll notice that the file extension of the file is .M4A but this is easy enough to change.

Just rename the file extension to .M4R (example shown below) and click ‘YES’ to confirm the change! In this way, you’ve managed to convert MP3 to M4R with iTunes!

Change from M4A to M4R

013. How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online Free with Ringtone Maker?

For this last example of converting MP3 to M4R, we’ve decided to show-off the ringtone maker, Wondershare TunesGo! This program is, of course, more than just a ringtone maker, but the function that we’ll be exploring will be the process of making an iPhone Ringtone from an MP3 file to an M4R (start to finish!)

**Step 1: Launch Program and Connect iPhone to Computer!

First, launch the M4R converter software on your desktop and connect your iPhone to your computer! If you want to use the program that we’re showing off in this example, the URL has been provided below:

Launch Program and Connect iPhone

**Step 2: Select Ringtone Maker

Once the program has been launched, go to the ‘MUSIC’ tab and select “Ringtone Maker” (pointed out in the image below.)

Select ‘Ringtone Maker’ Option

**Step 3: Select Music File!

A secondary window should appear after you select the ‘Ringtone Maker’ option. Here, the first thing you have to do is upload the music file that you want to convert.

For the software that we’re using as an example, you can choose to upload ‘Local Music’ from your computer or ‘Device Music’ from the music that you have stored in your connected iPhone. We’ll be explaining the different methods to select a music file in the three following steps!

Upload Locally or Through Device

**Step 4: Local Upload - Open!

If you select ‘Local Music’ a system window will appear asking you to select the music file that you want to convert to M4R. Do so and click ‘OPEN!’

Browse Music File Locally

**Step 5: Device Music - SELECT!

For the ‘Device Music’ option, another program window will appear. This time, with all the music on your device. You can select the music file you want to convert from here! Click ‘Select’ when done!

Browse Music on Device

**Step 6: TunesGo Library!

For the last method of selecting a music file, all you have to do is select a file from the ‘MUSIC’ tab of TunesGo, right-click on said file, and then select ‘Ringtone Maker’ on the pop-up that appears (shown below).

Software Library Upload

**Step 7: Trim and Save!

Once you’ve chosen the music file you want to convert, you can now:

Trim the file to specify which part of the file you want to convert (40 seconds only for a proper Ringtone!)

Use the ‘Ringtone Audition’ option to preview your trimmed audio.

And, finally, you can save the finished ringtone directly to your PC or Device!

In this way, not only have you managed to convert from MP3 to M4R cleanly, but you can also use it right away on either your PC or iPhone!

Trim Audio and Save

Part 3 How to Convert M4A to M4R?

Another Apple extension file that you might recognize is M4A! This was mentioned briefly in a previous tutorial, but it might be more familiar to others as ‘compressed’ Apple Music. This is what your audio becomes when processed through iTunes. It’s also known as MPEG-4 Audio, and its main purpose is to compress the size of an audio file (compared to MP3) without compromising the quality.

01How to convert M4A to M4R on Windows?

This process was mentioned briefly in Part 2, Section 3 of this article, but we’ll be going through the easiest method of converting M4A to M4R on Windows below! This method is possible only because the formats are pretty much the same. The only difference lies in how they are categorized.

**Step 1: View File Extensions!

The first step to convert M4A to M4R is to open the folder in which your M4A audio is stored. There, make sure that you have ‘File Name Extensions’ selected under the ‘VIEW’ tab (pointed out in the image below).

This will allow you to view and edit the file extension of a given file.

View File Extensions on Windows

**Step 2: Rename M4A to M4R!

Next, select the M4A that you want to convert and right-click so that you can choose the ‘Rename’ option on the pop-up that appears.

Rename M4A to M4R

**Step 3: Change M4A to M4R

With ‘File Name Extensions’ on, you can edit the file extension as well! Of course, this is not possible for all conversions. But, as mentioned, since M4A and M4R files are pretty much the same, you can do so without damaging the file!

Meaning, you can change M4A to M4R without worrying about it being unusable!

Change M4A to M4R

012. How to Convert M4A to M4R with iTunes

This process was already explained in Part 2, Section 2 of this article. But, since it’s important to provide this perspective we’ll be going through the process again. This time, with the intention of converting an M4A music file to an M4R!

**Step 1: Add File to iTunes Library!

First, add the M4A file to your iTunes library! (You can use the drag-and-drop feature or select ‘Add File’ or ‘Add folder’ under the ‘FILE’ tab).

Add File to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Create to M4R!

Once your M4A audio file has been uploaded, make sure that it’s selected and then select ‘Create Version’ for it (the option can be found under the ‘FILE’ tab > ‘Convert’!)

Create version of M4A

**Step 3: Convert M4A to M4R

Once the version of the file has been created (which comes out as M4A), you can use the method we showed in Section 3, Part 1 of this article to change the M4A to M4R simply by rewriting the file extension name.

Convert M4A to M4R

03How to Convert M4A to M4R Online

For this next part, we’ll be echoing another one of our earlier tutorials! Only, this time, we’ll be focusing on converting M4A to M4R online with an M4R converter online! Specifically, the one we introduced previously — Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Online M4R Converter

Audio Tool Set offers an M4A to M4R converter that you can select under the ‘CONVERT AUDIO’ tab!

Audio Tool Set - M4A to M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload M4A File!

Once you’ve been moved to the free M4A to M4R converter, select the ‘UPLOAD M4A’ option to browse your PC for the M4A file that you want to convert.

Upload M4A file for Conversion

**Step 3: Confirm M4R Conversion Format!

If you’re using the M4A to M4R Converter you can skip this step. But, if not, make sure that you have chosen ‘M4R’ as your desired conversion format!

Confirm M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Convert M4A to M4R!

With all of that in order, select ‘CONVERT’ to move forward.

Convert M4A to M4R

**Step 5: Download Converted M4R!

Finally, with the conversion done, you can now download the converted file to use as you will! This can be done by selecting the ‘DOWNLOAD’ option!

Download Converted File

04How to Create and How to Open an M4A File?

If you want detailed instructions on how to create an M4A file, please refer to Part 2, Section 2 of this article, or Part 3, Section 2. In both sections, we demonstrated how one can create an M4A file by using the ‘Create Version’ feature that iTunes offers.

In that same vein, if you want to be able to open an M4A file, iTunes is your best bet! Although, it should also be said that some of the more advanced media players (and audio players), like QuickTime or Media Player, can open M4A files as well!

iTunes Software

05Which Other Formats M4A Can Be Converted into and Why?

There are numerous file formats that you can convert M4A into. If you want examples: you can convert M4A to M4R, MP3 to M4A, WAV to M4A, FLAC to M4A, OGG to M4A, WMA to M4A, and so much more! Of course, if you want more advanced M4A conversions, you might want to consider using a more advanced tool. One such M4A converter that we recommend is Filmora Pro!

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an all-in-one video editing software that will allow you to convert M4A to M4R (and all sorts of other audio and video file formats) so that you can make use of the file for all your projects! The best part of using a video editor like Filmora, of course, is that once you’ve converted the file, you can use it immediately — there’s no need to wait, you can finish your project right then and there, making it unnecessary for you to go searching for any other solution.

Wondershare Filmora - Best Video Editor for Mac/Windows

Try It Free Try It Free

5,481,435 people have downloaded it.

Build unique custom animations without breaking a sweat.

Focus on creating epic stories and leave the details to Filmora’s auto features.

Start a creative adventure with drag & drop effects and endless possibilities.

Filmora simplifies advanced features to save you time and effort.

Filmora cuts out repetition so you can move on to your next creative breakthrough.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

What’s the point of M4R Converters? Well, it’s most relevant to iOS users! Especially those who are tired of listening to the same boring tones on their phone over and over again!

The M4R file format was created by Apple to differentiate music from ringtones. And, by becoming familiar with the process (which we’ve illustrated in many details in the article above), you can flex your creativity a bit and control just what tones are coming out of your phone!

It’s not all that difficult to create M4Rs either! There are several methods that you can try — online, iTunes, third-party software, and so much more!

And, you can make these ringtones from pretty much any format — whether you’re converting from MP3, MOV, WAV, FLAC, WMA, etc.

Try It Free Try It Free

M4R is an audio file extension that was created by Apple to separate regular songs and audio from ringtones

As for methods of converting from your more general file extension formats to M4R, we’ve prepared a whole guide below — where we’ve outlined some of the more important things that you should know about M4R converters and how to use them.

In this article

01 [Why Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 2)

03 [How to Convert M4A to M4R?](#Part 3)

Part 1 Why Convert MP3 to M4R?

Let’s start with a bit of an overview of M4R and M4R Converters first! We touched upon this subject in the introduction, but we thought it would be best to expand on the subject here for better understanding. First, let’s talk about what an M4R converter is usually like. Then, let’s talk about why someone might convert from MP3 to M4R.

01M4R Converter Key Features

Here’s a list of some key features that you should look for in an M4R Converter:

Your average M4R Converter should allow you to convert to M4R from general audio files. That includes the following: MP3, WAV, WMA, AIFF, AMR, FLAC, MKA, WMV, and so much more.

It should also allow you to ‘extract’ audio from videos (whether it is a MPEG-4, MOV, AVI, etc.)

The M4R converter would prove even more useful if it allowed you to trim small segments of audio or video (with exact start and end time) so that you can specify which part should play as a ringtone.

A method of previewing trimmed content prior to conversion would also be helpful so that you won’t have to undergo the process again and again.

Its settings should also be adjustable or the interface intuitive, allowing you to easily choose or discover the output folder, adjust audio bitrate, and so on.

02Best Three Reasons Why Convert MP3 to M4R

There are several reasons why you might want to use an M4R converter to change from MP3 to M4R, these reasons include:

Creating iPhone Ringtone: The main purpose of converting to M4R is, of course, to create iPhone ringtones. This file extension was created by Apple specifically to differentiate between songs and ringtones. And, if you’re a regular iOS user but are not a fan of the basic iOS ringtones, learning how to create M4R files would be beneficial in opening your horizons.

Transfer Ringtones to iPhone: Of course, once the M4R is created for use, it would need to be transferred. This is much easier if it stays in this format!

Making General M4R Audio: Although not as common, some users see the benefit of using M4R audio for other reasons (i.e., content creators sometimes use M4R audio as a sound-effect for videos). Thus, knowing how to convert from MP3 to MP4 usually proves to be useful for them.

Part 2 How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?

Now, let’s start with a more in-depth tutorial on how to actually convert MP3 to M4R! In this case, specifically, we’ll be providing three different examples. Starting with an online solution and then following it up with the general iTunes conversion and the more involved software conversion!

01How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online?

As mentioned, the first M4R Converter on this list is an online one! There are plenty of these kinds of online converter tools available, and they all pretty much work the same way, so the example we’ll be showing below is more of an all-purpose kind of affair. However, just in case you’re curious, the tool we’ll be using for our examples is the Converter from Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Visit Online Converter Website!

First! Open the M4R Converter online tool that you want to use! If you want to follow along with our examples, a URL has been provided for you below:

Open M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload MP3 File

Next, it’s time to upload the MP3 file that you want to convert to M4R!

Usually, all you have to do for this is click the ‘Upload’ button or drag-and-drop the file onto the specified area. But, in some cases, the M4R converter may also allow you to upload via a link or from cloud-based storage (i.e., Dropbox.)

Upload MP3 File for Conversion

**Step 3: Select M4R as Output Format!

Once your MP3 file has been uploaded, select the format that you want it to be converted into. This may have defaulted to M4R or you may be given the chance to choose yourself (as is shown in the image below.)

Select M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Select Convert!

The next thing you need to do is to simply select the ‘CONVERT’ option to begin processing the change from MP3 to M4R!

Select Convert Option

**Step 5: Download Converter M4R!

Once the conversion is done, you should now have been given the option to download the finished M4R. Click ‘DOWNLOAD’ and you’re done!

Download Converted File

012. How to convert MP3 to M4R on iTunes?

Of course, as an Apple File Extension, it only makes sense that Apple provides its users an easy way to convert general audio to M4R! In this case, we’ll be showing you another method to convert from MP3 to M4R with Apple’s own iTunes! Of course, if you want to follow along with this next example, you’ll have to download and install the software (for Windows users) before proceeding.

**Step 1: Add File or Folder to Library!

Once you have iTunes installed, launch the program and go to ‘File’ > ‘Add File to Library’ or ‘Add Folder to Library’ to upload the MP3 file(s) that you want to convert to M4R!

Add MP3 file(s) to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Select MP3 and Adjust Timing!

Since M4R ringtones are limited to 40 seconds only, you’ll need to adjust timing prior to conversion if you want the ringtone to start and end at a specific time.

This is possible to do by selecting the song from your library and right clicking so you can access the ‘OPTIONS’ tab (shown below)! Under the Options tab, you’ll be able to specify the start and stop time for your chosen MP3!

Click ‘OK’ when done in order to save any changes!

Adjust Ringtone Timing

**Step 3: Convert to Version!

Next, with the MP3 file still selected, go to the ‘FILE’ tab (shown in the image below) and then click ‘CONVERT’ > ‘Create Version’!

Create Version of MP3

**Step 4: Go to the Destination Folder!

After the conversion has been finished, locate the file’s destination folder. You’ll notice that the file extension of the file is .M4A but this is easy enough to change.

Just rename the file extension to .M4R (example shown below) and click ‘YES’ to confirm the change! In this way, you’ve managed to convert MP3 to M4R with iTunes!

Change from M4A to M4R

013. How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online Free with Ringtone Maker?

For this last example of converting MP3 to M4R, we’ve decided to show-off the ringtone maker, Wondershare TunesGo! This program is, of course, more than just a ringtone maker, but the function that we’ll be exploring will be the process of making an iPhone Ringtone from an MP3 file to an M4R (start to finish!)

**Step 1: Launch Program and Connect iPhone to Computer!

First, launch the M4R converter software on your desktop and connect your iPhone to your computer! If you want to use the program that we’re showing off in this example, the URL has been provided below:

Launch Program and Connect iPhone

**Step 2: Select Ringtone Maker

Once the program has been launched, go to the ‘MUSIC’ tab and select “Ringtone Maker” (pointed out in the image below.)

Select ‘Ringtone Maker’ Option

**Step 3: Select Music File!

A secondary window should appear after you select the ‘Ringtone Maker’ option. Here, the first thing you have to do is upload the music file that you want to convert.

For the software that we’re using as an example, you can choose to upload ‘Local Music’ from your computer or ‘Device Music’ from the music that you have stored in your connected iPhone. We’ll be explaining the different methods to select a music file in the three following steps!

Upload Locally or Through Device

**Step 4: Local Upload - Open!

If you select ‘Local Music’ a system window will appear asking you to select the music file that you want to convert to M4R. Do so and click ‘OPEN!’

Browse Music File Locally

**Step 5: Device Music - SELECT!

For the ‘Device Music’ option, another program window will appear. This time, with all the music on your device. You can select the music file you want to convert from here! Click ‘Select’ when done!

Browse Music on Device

**Step 6: TunesGo Library!

For the last method of selecting a music file, all you have to do is select a file from the ‘MUSIC’ tab of TunesGo, right-click on said file, and then select ‘Ringtone Maker’ on the pop-up that appears (shown below).

Software Library Upload

**Step 7: Trim and Save!

Once you’ve chosen the music file you want to convert, you can now:

Trim the file to specify which part of the file you want to convert (40 seconds only for a proper Ringtone!)

Use the ‘Ringtone Audition’ option to preview your trimmed audio.

And, finally, you can save the finished ringtone directly to your PC or Device!

In this way, not only have you managed to convert from MP3 to M4R cleanly, but you can also use it right away on either your PC or iPhone!

Trim Audio and Save

Part 3 How to Convert M4A to M4R?

Another Apple extension file that you might recognize is M4A! This was mentioned briefly in a previous tutorial, but it might be more familiar to others as ‘compressed’ Apple Music. This is what your audio becomes when processed through iTunes. It’s also known as MPEG-4 Audio, and its main purpose is to compress the size of an audio file (compared to MP3) without compromising the quality.

01How to convert M4A to M4R on Windows?

This process was mentioned briefly in Part 2, Section 3 of this article, but we’ll be going through the easiest method of converting M4A to M4R on Windows below! This method is possible only because the formats are pretty much the same. The only difference lies in how they are categorized.

**Step 1: View File Extensions!

The first step to convert M4A to M4R is to open the folder in which your M4A audio is stored. There, make sure that you have ‘File Name Extensions’ selected under the ‘VIEW’ tab (pointed out in the image below).

This will allow you to view and edit the file extension of a given file.

View File Extensions on Windows

**Step 2: Rename M4A to M4R!

Next, select the M4A that you want to convert and right-click so that you can choose the ‘Rename’ option on the pop-up that appears.

Rename M4A to M4R

**Step 3: Change M4A to M4R

With ‘File Name Extensions’ on, you can edit the file extension as well! Of course, this is not possible for all conversions. But, as mentioned, since M4A and M4R files are pretty much the same, you can do so without damaging the file!

Meaning, you can change M4A to M4R without worrying about it being unusable!

Change M4A to M4R

012. How to Convert M4A to M4R with iTunes

This process was already explained in Part 2, Section 2 of this article. But, since it’s important to provide this perspective we’ll be going through the process again. This time, with the intention of converting an M4A music file to an M4R!

**Step 1: Add File to iTunes Library!

First, add the M4A file to your iTunes library! (You can use the drag-and-drop feature or select ‘Add File’ or ‘Add folder’ under the ‘FILE’ tab).

Add File to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Create to M4R!

Once your M4A audio file has been uploaded, make sure that it’s selected and then select ‘Create Version’ for it (the option can be found under the ‘FILE’ tab > ‘Convert’!)

Create version of M4A

**Step 3: Convert M4A to M4R

Once the version of the file has been created (which comes out as M4A), you can use the method we showed in Section 3, Part 1 of this article to change the M4A to M4R simply by rewriting the file extension name.

Convert M4A to M4R

03How to Convert M4A to M4R Online

For this next part, we’ll be echoing another one of our earlier tutorials! Only, this time, we’ll be focusing on converting M4A to M4R online with an M4R converter online! Specifically, the one we introduced previously — Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Online M4R Converter

Audio Tool Set offers an M4A to M4R converter that you can select under the ‘CONVERT AUDIO’ tab!

Audio Tool Set - M4A to M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload M4A File!

Once you’ve been moved to the free M4A to M4R converter, select the ‘UPLOAD M4A’ option to browse your PC for the M4A file that you want to convert.

Upload M4A file for Conversion

**Step 3: Confirm M4R Conversion Format!

If you’re using the M4A to M4R Converter you can skip this step. But, if not, make sure that you have chosen ‘M4R’ as your desired conversion format!

Confirm M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Convert M4A to M4R!

With all of that in order, select ‘CONVERT’ to move forward.

Convert M4A to M4R

**Step 5: Download Converted M4R!

Finally, with the conversion done, you can now download the converted file to use as you will! This can be done by selecting the ‘DOWNLOAD’ option!

Download Converted File

04How to Create and How to Open an M4A File?

If you want detailed instructions on how to create an M4A file, please refer to Part 2, Section 2 of this article, or Part 3, Section 2. In both sections, we demonstrated how one can create an M4A file by using the ‘Create Version’ feature that iTunes offers.

In that same vein, if you want to be able to open an M4A file, iTunes is your best bet! Although, it should also be said that some of the more advanced media players (and audio players), like QuickTime or Media Player, can open M4A files as well!

iTunes Software

05Which Other Formats M4A Can Be Converted into and Why?

There are numerous file formats that you can convert M4A into. If you want examples: you can convert M4A to M4R, MP3 to M4A, WAV to M4A, FLAC to M4A, OGG to M4A, WMA to M4A, and so much more! Of course, if you want more advanced M4A conversions, you might want to consider using a more advanced tool. One such M4A converter that we recommend is Filmora Pro!

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an all-in-one video editing software that will allow you to convert M4A to M4R (and all sorts of other audio and video file formats) so that you can make use of the file for all your projects! The best part of using a video editor like Filmora, of course, is that once you’ve converted the file, you can use it immediately — there’s no need to wait, you can finish your project right then and there, making it unnecessary for you to go searching for any other solution.

Wondershare Filmora - Best Video Editor for Mac/Windows

Try It Free Try It Free

5,481,435 people have downloaded it.

Build unique custom animations without breaking a sweat.

Focus on creating epic stories and leave the details to Filmora’s auto features.

Start a creative adventure with drag & drop effects and endless possibilities.

Filmora simplifies advanced features to save you time and effort.

Filmora cuts out repetition so you can move on to your next creative breakthrough.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

What’s the point of M4R Converters? Well, it’s most relevant to iOS users! Especially those who are tired of listening to the same boring tones on their phone over and over again!

The M4R file format was created by Apple to differentiate music from ringtones. And, by becoming familiar with the process (which we’ve illustrated in many details in the article above), you can flex your creativity a bit and control just what tones are coming out of your phone!

It’s not all that difficult to create M4Rs either! There are several methods that you can try — online, iTunes, third-party software, and so much more!

And, you can make these ringtones from pretty much any format — whether you’re converting from MP3, MOV, WAV, FLAC, WMA, etc.

Try It Free Try It Free

M4R is an audio file extension that was created by Apple to separate regular songs and audio from ringtones

As for methods of converting from your more general file extension formats to M4R, we’ve prepared a whole guide below — where we’ve outlined some of the more important things that you should know about M4R converters and how to use them.

In this article

01 [Why Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 1)

02 [How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?](#Part 2)

03 [How to Convert M4A to M4R?](#Part 3)

Part 1 Why Convert MP3 to M4R?

Let’s start with a bit of an overview of M4R and M4R Converters first! We touched upon this subject in the introduction, but we thought it would be best to expand on the subject here for better understanding. First, let’s talk about what an M4R converter is usually like. Then, let’s talk about why someone might convert from MP3 to M4R.

01M4R Converter Key Features

Here’s a list of some key features that you should look for in an M4R Converter:

Your average M4R Converter should allow you to convert to M4R from general audio files. That includes the following: MP3, WAV, WMA, AIFF, AMR, FLAC, MKA, WMV, and so much more.

It should also allow you to ‘extract’ audio from videos (whether it is a MPEG-4, MOV, AVI, etc.)

The M4R converter would prove even more useful if it allowed you to trim small segments of audio or video (with exact start and end time) so that you can specify which part should play as a ringtone.

A method of previewing trimmed content prior to conversion would also be helpful so that you won’t have to undergo the process again and again.

Its settings should also be adjustable or the interface intuitive, allowing you to easily choose or discover the output folder, adjust audio bitrate, and so on.

02Best Three Reasons Why Convert MP3 to M4R

There are several reasons why you might want to use an M4R converter to change from MP3 to M4R, these reasons include:

Creating iPhone Ringtone: The main purpose of converting to M4R is, of course, to create iPhone ringtones. This file extension was created by Apple specifically to differentiate between songs and ringtones. And, if you’re a regular iOS user but are not a fan of the basic iOS ringtones, learning how to create M4R files would be beneficial in opening your horizons.

Transfer Ringtones to iPhone: Of course, once the M4R is created for use, it would need to be transferred. This is much easier if it stays in this format!

Making General M4R Audio: Although not as common, some users see the benefit of using M4R audio for other reasons (i.e., content creators sometimes use M4R audio as a sound-effect for videos). Thus, knowing how to convert from MP3 to MP4 usually proves to be useful for them.

Part 2 How to Convert Mp3 to M4R?

Now, let’s start with a more in-depth tutorial on how to actually convert MP3 to M4R! In this case, specifically, we’ll be providing three different examples. Starting with an online solution and then following it up with the general iTunes conversion and the more involved software conversion!

01How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online?

As mentioned, the first M4R Converter on this list is an online one! There are plenty of these kinds of online converter tools available, and they all pretty much work the same way, so the example we’ll be showing below is more of an all-purpose kind of affair. However, just in case you’re curious, the tool we’ll be using for our examples is the Converter from Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Visit Online Converter Website!

First! Open the M4R Converter online tool that you want to use! If you want to follow along with our examples, a URL has been provided for you below:

Open M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload MP3 File

Next, it’s time to upload the MP3 file that you want to convert to M4R!

Usually, all you have to do for this is click the ‘Upload’ button or drag-and-drop the file onto the specified area. But, in some cases, the M4R converter may also allow you to upload via a link or from cloud-based storage (i.e., Dropbox.)

Upload MP3 File for Conversion

**Step 3: Select M4R as Output Format!

Once your MP3 file has been uploaded, select the format that you want it to be converted into. This may have defaulted to M4R or you may be given the chance to choose yourself (as is shown in the image below.)

Select M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Select Convert!

The next thing you need to do is to simply select the ‘CONVERT’ option to begin processing the change from MP3 to M4R!

Select Convert Option

**Step 5: Download Converter M4R!

Once the conversion is done, you should now have been given the option to download the finished M4R. Click ‘DOWNLOAD’ and you’re done!

Download Converted File

012. How to convert MP3 to M4R on iTunes?

Of course, as an Apple File Extension, it only makes sense that Apple provides its users an easy way to convert general audio to M4R! In this case, we’ll be showing you another method to convert from MP3 to M4R with Apple’s own iTunes! Of course, if you want to follow along with this next example, you’ll have to download and install the software (for Windows users) before proceeding.

**Step 1: Add File or Folder to Library!

Once you have iTunes installed, launch the program and go to ‘File’ > ‘Add File to Library’ or ‘Add Folder to Library’ to upload the MP3 file(s) that you want to convert to M4R!

Add MP3 file(s) to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Select MP3 and Adjust Timing!

Since M4R ringtones are limited to 40 seconds only, you’ll need to adjust timing prior to conversion if you want the ringtone to start and end at a specific time.

This is possible to do by selecting the song from your library and right clicking so you can access the ‘OPTIONS’ tab (shown below)! Under the Options tab, you’ll be able to specify the start and stop time for your chosen MP3!

Click ‘OK’ when done in order to save any changes!

Adjust Ringtone Timing

**Step 3: Convert to Version!

Next, with the MP3 file still selected, go to the ‘FILE’ tab (shown in the image below) and then click ‘CONVERT’ > ‘Create Version’!

Create Version of MP3

**Step 4: Go to the Destination Folder!

After the conversion has been finished, locate the file’s destination folder. You’ll notice that the file extension of the file is .M4A but this is easy enough to change.

Just rename the file extension to .M4R (example shown below) and click ‘YES’ to confirm the change! In this way, you’ve managed to convert MP3 to M4R with iTunes!

Change from M4A to M4R

013. How to Convert MP3 to M4R Online Free with Ringtone Maker?

For this last example of converting MP3 to M4R, we’ve decided to show-off the ringtone maker, Wondershare TunesGo! This program is, of course, more than just a ringtone maker, but the function that we’ll be exploring will be the process of making an iPhone Ringtone from an MP3 file to an M4R (start to finish!)

**Step 1: Launch Program and Connect iPhone to Computer!

First, launch the M4R converter software on your desktop and connect your iPhone to your computer! If you want to use the program that we’re showing off in this example, the URL has been provided below:

Launch Program and Connect iPhone

**Step 2: Select Ringtone Maker

Once the program has been launched, go to the ‘MUSIC’ tab and select “Ringtone Maker” (pointed out in the image below.)

Select ‘Ringtone Maker’ Option

**Step 3: Select Music File!

A secondary window should appear after you select the ‘Ringtone Maker’ option. Here, the first thing you have to do is upload the music file that you want to convert.

For the software that we’re using as an example, you can choose to upload ‘Local Music’ from your computer or ‘Device Music’ from the music that you have stored in your connected iPhone. We’ll be explaining the different methods to select a music file in the three following steps!

Upload Locally or Through Device

**Step 4: Local Upload - Open!

If you select ‘Local Music’ a system window will appear asking you to select the music file that you want to convert to M4R. Do so and click ‘OPEN!’

Browse Music File Locally

**Step 5: Device Music - SELECT!

For the ‘Device Music’ option, another program window will appear. This time, with all the music on your device. You can select the music file you want to convert from here! Click ‘Select’ when done!

Browse Music on Device

**Step 6: TunesGo Library!

For the last method of selecting a music file, all you have to do is select a file from the ‘MUSIC’ tab of TunesGo, right-click on said file, and then select ‘Ringtone Maker’ on the pop-up that appears (shown below).

Software Library Upload

**Step 7: Trim and Save!

Once you’ve chosen the music file you want to convert, you can now:

Trim the file to specify which part of the file you want to convert (40 seconds only for a proper Ringtone!)

Use the ‘Ringtone Audition’ option to preview your trimmed audio.

And, finally, you can save the finished ringtone directly to your PC or Device!

In this way, not only have you managed to convert from MP3 to M4R cleanly, but you can also use it right away on either your PC or iPhone!

Trim Audio and Save

Part 3 How to Convert M4A to M4R?

Another Apple extension file that you might recognize is M4A! This was mentioned briefly in a previous tutorial, but it might be more familiar to others as ‘compressed’ Apple Music. This is what your audio becomes when processed through iTunes. It’s also known as MPEG-4 Audio, and its main purpose is to compress the size of an audio file (compared to MP3) without compromising the quality.

01How to convert M4A to M4R on Windows?

This process was mentioned briefly in Part 2, Section 3 of this article, but we’ll be going through the easiest method of converting M4A to M4R on Windows below! This method is possible only because the formats are pretty much the same. The only difference lies in how they are categorized.

**Step 1: View File Extensions!

The first step to convert M4A to M4R is to open the folder in which your M4A audio is stored. There, make sure that you have ‘File Name Extensions’ selected under the ‘VIEW’ tab (pointed out in the image below).

This will allow you to view and edit the file extension of a given file.

View File Extensions on Windows

**Step 2: Rename M4A to M4R!

Next, select the M4A that you want to convert and right-click so that you can choose the ‘Rename’ option on the pop-up that appears.

Rename M4A to M4R

**Step 3: Change M4A to M4R

With ‘File Name Extensions’ on, you can edit the file extension as well! Of course, this is not possible for all conversions. But, as mentioned, since M4A and M4R files are pretty much the same, you can do so without damaging the file!

Meaning, you can change M4A to M4R without worrying about it being unusable!

Change M4A to M4R

012. How to Convert M4A to M4R with iTunes

This process was already explained in Part 2, Section 2 of this article. But, since it’s important to provide this perspective we’ll be going through the process again. This time, with the intention of converting an M4A music file to an M4R!

**Step 1: Add File to iTunes Library!

First, add the M4A file to your iTunes library! (You can use the drag-and-drop feature or select ‘Add File’ or ‘Add folder’ under the ‘FILE’ tab).

Add File to iTunes Library

**Step 2: Create to M4R!

Once your M4A audio file has been uploaded, make sure that it’s selected and then select ‘Create Version’ for it (the option can be found under the ‘FILE’ tab > ‘Convert’!)

Create version of M4A

**Step 3: Convert M4A to M4R

Once the version of the file has been created (which comes out as M4A), you can use the method we showed in Section 3, Part 1 of this article to change the M4A to M4R simply by rewriting the file extension name.

Convert M4A to M4R

03How to Convert M4A to M4R Online

For this next part, we’ll be echoing another one of our earlier tutorials! Only, this time, we’ll be focusing on converting M4A to M4R online with an M4R converter online! Specifically, the one we introduced previously — Audio Tool Set!

**Step 1: Online M4R Converter

Audio Tool Set offers an M4A to M4R converter that you can select under the ‘CONVERT AUDIO’ tab!

Audio Tool Set - M4A to M4R Converter

**Step 2: Upload M4A File!

Once you’ve been moved to the free M4A to M4R converter, select the ‘UPLOAD M4A’ option to browse your PC for the M4A file that you want to convert.

Upload M4A file for Conversion

**Step 3: Confirm M4R Conversion Format!

If you’re using the M4A to M4R Converter you can skip this step. But, if not, make sure that you have chosen ‘M4R’ as your desired conversion format!

Confirm M4R as Output Format

**Step 4: Convert M4A to M4R!

With all of that in order, select ‘CONVERT’ to move forward.

Convert M4A to M4R

**Step 5: Download Converted M4R!

Finally, with the conversion done, you can now download the converted file to use as you will! This can be done by selecting the ‘DOWNLOAD’ option!

Download Converted File

04How to Create and How to Open an M4A File?

If you want detailed instructions on how to create an M4A file, please refer to Part 2, Section 2 of this article, or Part 3, Section 2. In both sections, we demonstrated how one can create an M4A file by using the ‘Create Version’ feature that iTunes offers.

In that same vein, if you want to be able to open an M4A file, iTunes is your best bet! Although, it should also be said that some of the more advanced media players (and audio players), like QuickTime or Media Player, can open M4A files as well!

iTunes Software

05Which Other Formats M4A Can Be Converted into and Why?

There are numerous file formats that you can convert M4A into. If you want examples: you can convert M4A to M4R, MP3 to M4A, WAV to M4A, FLAC to M4A, OGG to M4A, WMA to M4A, and so much more! Of course, if you want more advanced M4A conversions, you might want to consider using a more advanced tool. One such M4A converter that we recommend is Filmora Pro!

Wondershare Filmora Video Editor is an all-in-one video editing software that will allow you to convert M4A to M4R (and all sorts of other audio and video file formats) so that you can make use of the file for all your projects! The best part of using a video editor like Filmora, of course, is that once you’ve converted the file, you can use it immediately — there’s no need to wait, you can finish your project right then and there, making it unnecessary for you to go searching for any other solution.

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Filmora cuts out repetition so you can move on to your next creative breakthrough.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

What’s the point of M4R Converters? Well, it’s most relevant to iOS users! Especially those who are tired of listening to the same boring tones on their phone over and over again!

The M4R file format was created by Apple to differentiate music from ringtones. And, by becoming familiar with the process (which we’ve illustrated in many details in the article above), you can flex your creativity a bit and control just what tones are coming out of your phone!

It’s not all that difficult to create M4Rs either! There are several methods that you can try — online, iTunes, third-party software, and so much more!

And, you can make these ringtones from pretty much any format — whether you’re converting from MP3, MOV, WAV, FLAC, WMA, etc.

Also read:

  • Title: Updated Reduce MPEG2 File Size with VirtualDub A Beginners Guide
  • Author: Amelia
  • Created at : 2024-05-19 11:47:43
  • Updated at : 2024-05-20 11:47:43
  • Link: https://ai-driven-video-production.techidaily.com/updated-reduce-mpeg2-file-size-with-virtualdub-a-beginners-guide/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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Updated Reduce MPEG2 File Size with VirtualDub A Beginners Guide