HandBrake

HandBrake is a free and open-source video transcoder for Windows that allows users to convert video files from nearly any format to a selection of modern, widely supported codecs.



Originally developed for ripping DVDs, HandBrake has evolved into a full-featured conversion tool suitable for casual users and professionals alike.

With support for batch processing, presets, and a range of customization options, HandBrake is a powerful solution for video conversion on Windows PCs.

Key Features

Multi-format Support: Converts videos from a wide range of formats including MP4, MKV, AVI, and more.

Built-in Presets: Offers device-specific presets (e.g., iPhone, Android, Roku) for hassle-free conversions.

Batch Encoding: Queue multiple files for conversion to save time.

Hardware Acceleration: Supports GPU-based encoding with Intel QSV, NVIDIA NVENC, and AMD VCE.

Advanced Filters: Apply video filters like deinterlacing, scaling, cropping, and denoising.

Subtitle Support: Add, remove, or pass-through subtitles (SRT, VobSub, etc.).

Chapter Markers: Preserve or add chapter markers in outputs.

Customizable Output Settings: Fine-tune video/audio codecs, bitrate, resolution, and more.

User Interface

HandBrake’s UI is functional rather than flashy. It features a simple dashboard where users can load a video, choose output settings, select presets, and start encoding.



The layout is intuitive for basic tasks, though advanced features are tucked into various tabs, which may require a learning curve for newcomers.

The live preview function is handy for checking encoding settings before committing.

Installation and Setup

Installing this video program is straightforward. Download the installer from the official website, run it, and follow the prompts.

The setup process is lightweight and doesn’t include bloatware or third-party offers. Once installed, the software is ready to use—no need for additional codecs or plugins.

How to Use

• Launch HandBrake and load your source file via drag-and-drop or the “Open Source” button.
• Select a preset from the right panel (e.g., "Fast 1080p30").
• Choose your destination folder and file name.
• Customize video/audio/subtitle settings if desired.
• Click “Start Encode” to begin conversion.

Other Features

• Supports output in MP4, MKV, and WebM formats.
• Compatible with AV1, H.265, H.264, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, VP8, and VP9 video encoders.
• Offers optional hardware-accelerated video encoding.
• Encodes audio in AAC, HE-AAC, MP3, FLAC, AC3, E-AC3, Opus, and Vorbis formats.
• Allows audio pass-through for AC-3, E-AC3, FLAC, DTS, DTS-HD, TrueHD, AAC, Opus, MP3, and MP2.
• Supports title, chapter, and range selection for encoding.
• Batch scan and queue multiple encodes at once.
• Includes chapter markers in the output.
• Subtitle support for VobSub, CEA-608 Closed Captions, SSA, and SRT formats.
• Offers both Constant Quality and Average Bitrate encoding options.
• Handles both Variable (VFR) and Constant Frame Rates (CFR).
• Includes filters like Deinterlace, Decomb, Denoise, Detelecine, Deblock, Grayscale, Colorspace, Crop, and Scale.
• Provides live static and video previews during encoding.
• Supports HDR pass-through for high dynamic range content.

FAQs

Can HandBrake convert DVDs or Blu-rays?
Yes, but only unprotected discs. For commercial discs, third-party tools are required to bypass DRM.

Does HandBrake support batch processing?
Yes. You can add multiple files to the queue and process them sequentially.

Can I preserve subtitles in the converted file?
Yes. It can pass through or burn in subtitles depending on your settings.

Is HandBrake safe and ad-free?
Yes, it is open-source and completely free from ads or bundled software.

Does it support hardware acceleration?
Yes. It supports Intel QSV, NVIDIA NVENC, and AMD VCE for faster encoding.



Alternatives

FFmpeg: A command-line based tool with more control but a steeper learning curve.

Format Factory: Offers video, audio, and image conversion in one package.

Any Video Converter: A user-friendly tool with additional editing features.

MediaCoder: A highly customizable transcoder but less intuitive.

Pricing

This tool is 100% FREE and open-source. There are no premium versions or paid features.

System Requirements

• OS: Windows 11 or Windows 10 (64-bit only)
• CPU: Intel or AMD processor with SSE4 support
• RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended
• Storage: At least 100 MB for installation; more for processing files
• GPU: Optional, for hardware acceleration

PROS

• Free and open-source
• Powerful encoding options
• Hardware acceleration supported
• Regular updates
• Batch processing capable

CONS

• Not beginner-friendly for advanced features
• No support for encrypted DVDs/Blu-rays
• Limited editing capabilities

Conclusion

HandBrake is a robust, reliable video transcoder for Windows users who need a versatile tool for converting and optimizing video content. While it may not cater to complete beginners for advanced workflows, its presets, performance, and freedom make it an industry favorite for good reason.

Note: Requires .NET Framework.

Also Available: Download HandBrake for Mac