10 Best HEVC Video Converters for Windows (Free and Paid)

HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding), also known as H.265 codec, is popular among video enthusiasts for its efficient compression and higher video quality without requiring more storage or data. However, many scenarios may require you to convert your HEVC video into other media formats and vice versa for better accessibility. This article explores the best HEVC video converters (free and paid) to help with this process.

What is HEVC (or H.265)?

HEVC (A.K.A. H.265) is an advanced video compression method developed by the Motion Picture Experts Group (MPEG). It is the successor to the older AVC (H.264) codec. HEVC codec can compress videos with a double compression ratio without reducing the video quality at the same file size or using less storage compared to AVC (H.264).

Benefits of converting videos to HEVC

Digital content has become a major aspect of modern life. With rapid technological advancements and increased content consumption, high-resolution videos are becoming more prevalent. This widespread use of high-resolution digital Video significantly strains networks and storage. Fortunately, HEVC (High-Efficiency Video Coding) offers various advantages in this situation.

• It provides improved video quality over AVC (H.264).
• It maintains high visual quality while requiring less processing power and requiring less storage data.
• HEVC supports high resolutions up to 8K UHD.
• It is ideal for live streaming as it decreases the bandwidth requirements for broadcasting.
• It supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) for better video quality.
• HEVC codec has the potential for universal use.
• OTT platforms widely use HEVC for efficiency.
• It is ideal for mobile streaming as some of the latest Android (5.0 and higher) and iOS (11.0 or higher) devices come with built-in HEVC codec support.

Why convert HEVC to H264 and other formats?

While HEVC is popular for its improved video quality at smaller file sizes compared to older formats, it does have a drawback. Some older devices, Software, and streaming platforms do not support HEVC playback. For example, in Windows 11, you need to purchase a separate HEVC codec because the operating system does not natively support the format.

In such cases, converting your HEVC files to AVC (H.264) or other formats can be useful for easier editing and sharing and ensure compatibility with most previous devices, platforms, and video players.

Below, I have curated a list of the best HEVC converters (including Free and Paid). I have thoroughly tested all of these applications to recommend worthy programs that will make the conversion process easier for you. These programs are definitely worth trying, and you can choose one based on your preference and convenience.

Best Video Converters (Free)

In this article, I will focus mainly on converting HEVC (H.265) video into AVC (H.264), although the programs mentioned in the list support both HEVC as input and output.

Here is a list of the top three free HEVC converters (Tried and Tested). If you are looking for freeware options, these converters are a great place to start.

Note: For consistency, I used the same video source file for conversion (for both Free and Paid HEVC converters):

• Video Length: 10min
• Input Resolution: 2560X1440 (2K)
• Codec: HEVC (H.265)
• Bitrate: Program Default
• Output Resolution: 1920X1080 (Full HD)
• Output Codec: AVC (H.264)

1. HandBrake: The open source video transcoder

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux

HandBrake is an open-source, free video conversion tool that supports a wide range of formats, including modern and widely used codecs. It can convert videos encoded with HEVC (H.265) into various other codecs, including H.264, VP9, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, AV1, and more.
To convert a video, simply load the file into the program and select from the presets, which offer settings for different formats. If you have specific needs, you can customize the video output to your preference.

Noteworthy: The program's interface and customization options can feel intimidating at first, especially to novice users. In contrast, skilled users are likely to appreciate the ability to fine-tune their videos with advanced-level customization.

Note: To use this program, you'll need the .NET 8 Desktop Runtime. If not installed, HandBrake will prompt you to download and install it.

Extra Features

• Filters for enhancing your Video
• DVD ripper

2. VidCoder

Supported Platforms: Windows only

VidCoder is a DVD/Blu-ray ripping and video transcoding application for Windows that uses HandBrake as its encoding engine. Similar to HandBrake, VidCoder's interface can also feel complex, especially for beginners. However, with some time and curiosity, you can fully take advantage of its extensive customization options. For those who find customization tricky, VidCoder offers preset options for easy video conversion.

The program supports converting HEVC (H.265) media into various formats, including H.264, MPEG-4, MPEG-2, VP8, Theora, and AV1. Additionally, it offers hardware-accelerated encoding through AMD VCE, Nvidia NVENC, and Intel QuickSync.

Note: Similar to HandBrake, the program requires .NET 8 Desktop Runtime to be installed on your system.

Extra Features

• Filters for enhancing your Video
• DVD/Blu-ray ripping

Which is better HandBrake or VidCoder?

Both are efficient video conversion tools. Although VidCoder uses HandBrake's encoding engine, there are a few differences between the two.

For example, VidCoder's interface is simpler and easier to use. Additionally, it can preserve the original metadata of a video file, which Handbrake lacks.

Handbrake is a cross-platform video conversion tool, while VidCoder operates solely on Windows OS. If you are looking for advanced customization options, Handbrake provides more flexibility over VidCoder.

Both HandBrake and VidCoder offer competitive features, making it difficult to decide between them. You can try both programs to see which one best suits your needs.

3. MiniTool Video Converter

Supported Platforms: Windows Only

Free Version Limitations

• The free version lets you download only 5 videos.
• Conversion between Video and audio.

MiniTool Video Converter is a reliable and efficient video conversion tool that can proficiently handle HEVC videos. The free version is an excellent choice if you are looking for quick video conversions without getting a watermark in your output file.

Its user-friendly interface makes the program easy to use, allowing quick navigation, especially for non-technical users.

This converter supports converting HEVC videos to popular codecs like H.264 (AVC), MPEG-2, MPEG-4, VP9, Xvid, FLV, and more. You can also customize video output settings as needed. However, the batch conversion feature is limited to only five videos at a time. Additionally, the program lacks hardware acceleration capabilities.

Overall, MiniTool Video Converter is a satisfactory option for those seeking a free and straightforward video conversion solution.

Extra Features

• Youtube Video Downloader
• Screen Recorder

Best HEVC Converters (Paid)

Below are some of the best HEVC Video Converters (Paid) you can try. All of the programs mentioned below offer free trials with limitations. Hence, to enjoy the full functionality of their features, I suggest purchasing the product only after you are happy with the trial.

4. Wondershare UniConverter

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS

Free Trial Limitations

Wondershare Uniconverter offers a 7 Day Free Trial Limitation. During this period, you can:

• Only convert 1/3 of each original Video
• Download 1 file with a maximum resolution of 480P
• The trial version only supports recording a 1minute video.
• Limitations on using additional features

UniConverter is an all-in-one video conversion tool developed by the reputable software company Wondershare. While it offers a range of features, such as video downloading, screen recording, DVD burning, editing, compression, watermark removal, AI utilities, etc., its primary strength lies in video conversion.

UniConverter supports over 1000 formats, including HEVC files, and can handle videos up to 8K resolution for both input and output. Apart from that, Uniconverter can handle various video formats and codecs, including MP4, MOV, MKV, M4V (only for Windows), FLV, DIVX, AVI, MPG, MPEG, VOB, 3GP, WMV, XVID, MPEG4, Theora, H.263, H.264, H.265 and others.

The software's formidable hardware acceleration tool ensures efficient processing. After conversion, you can enhance your videos with AI tools. Additionally, UniConverter supports the conversion of IFO and ISO file formats.

Extra Features

• AI Tools
• Audio Converter
• Downloader
• Video Editor & Compressor
• Merger
• Screen Recorder
• DVD Burner

5. WonderFox HD Video Converter

Supported Platforms: Windows Only

Free Trial Limitations

• Conversion is limited to 5 minutes
• You can download 5 video files.
• Watermark on Animated GIF
• Recording limitation 5 times.

WonderFox HD Video Converter is an easy-to-use multimedia tool for video conversion and downloading. It supports converting videos up to 12K (input) resolution and offers a wide range of presets for various formats. The program also handles HEVC (H.265) format for both input and output, like a pro. Using WonderFox HD Video converter, you can easily convert your HEVC videos into AVC (H.264), H.263, VP9, DivX, Xvid, OGV, FLV, AV1, AVC1, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, and other formats. In addition to its conversion capabilities, it includes other useful multimedia utilities that can be handy when needed.

Extra Features

• Video Downloader
• Screen and Audio Recorder
• GIF Maker
• Basic Editing Tools
• Ringtone Maker
• Toolbox for other multimedia features.

6. WinXVideo AI

Supported Platforms: Windows and macOS

Free Trial Limitations

• Limited AI video/image enhancing
• Output video within 5 minutes
• Convert Video to MP4
• Record video with a watermark

WinXVideo AI is a powerful, lightweight, and AI-driven video converter that offers extensive features beyond video conversion. Trusted by 70 million users, this program supports conversion into over 420 profiles, including popular codecs like H.265, H.264, MPEG-4, ProRes, AV1, VP9/8, MOV, AVI, WebM, WMV, and more. Compatible with both Windows and macOS, it makes HEVC conversion easy and fast. The Software can handle videos with up to 8K resolution, converting them to 4K HD, which is the maximum supported output resolution.

Furthermore, WinX Video AI utilizes advanced hardware acceleration technology, making high-resolution video conversion efficient and swift, reducing CPU strain and significantly speeding up the conversion process.

Note: In this best HEVC video converters article, I tested Winx Video AI's free trial version, which limited me to converting only 5 minutes of Video. Therefore, the video conversion time mentioned in the table below is based on this 5-minute output.

Extra Features

• Video Downloader
• Screen Recorder
• AI Image and Video Upscale
• Video Compression
• AI Audio

7. HitPaw Univd (HitPaw Video Converter)

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, and Android

Trial Version Limitations

• The free trial version can only convert 1/3 of the length of each video and audio file.
• AI Speech to text and Burning Videos are not accessible in the free trial.
• GIF creation, image conversion, AI Art Generator, and Background image removal are limited to 2 files.
• Record screen and webcam for upto 1 minute.
• 2D to 3D Video (convert only 1/3 length of the video)

HitPaw Univd (HitPaw Video Converter) is a user-friendly media solution designed to efficiently convert videos between over 1,000 formats while maintaining high-quality output. Its intuitive interface makes navigation easy for novice users.

HitPaw Univd supports upto 8K resolution as input, but the output conversion is limited to 4K. Furthermore, it can efficiently convert HEVC files into various codecs, including H.265, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC, VOB, VP9, WebM, Xvid, F4V, FLV, and vice versa. Also, as a plus, you can easily customize conversion settings.

Note: I tested the free trial version of HitPaw, which allowed me to convert 1/3rd of the input video while maintaining high-quality output.

Extra Features

• AI Tools
• Basic Video Editor
• DVD Burner
• Video/Image Compressor
• Screen Recorder
• Image Editor
• Speech to Text
• 2D Video to 3D
• Video to GIF

8. Any Video Converter

Supported Platforms: Windows and macOS

Trial Version Limitations

• There are no customization options available for conversion tasks
• Screen Recording is limited to 3 minutes
• You can split a video into a maximum of 5 segments.
• Video merging is limited to 5 segments for a single video
• A maximum of 3 watermarks can be added to a single video
• You can't set output language or advanced AI model in Speech to text feature.

It is another comprehensive HEVC video conversion tool with a clean and professional interface. I tested the free version, which was quite sufficient for my needs. Despite its free limitation on conversion customization, Any Video Converter allowed me to easily convert high-quality videos using its preset collection, which includes both HEVC and AVC codecs, along with other codec options like VP9, AV1, FLV, and more.

I found it impressive that it allows you to convert videos without adding a watermark to the output file. Its hardware acceleration feature efficiently enhances performance. Hence, if you are looking for a quick way to convert your video files without much hassle and an annoying watermark in the output file, you can easily download this program and give the free version a try.

However, for enhanced customization and to take advantage of its additional features, I recommend purchasing the program.

Extra Features

• Video Downloader
• Video Editor with different tools
• Video Compression
• Speech to Text
• Screen Recorder
• Add Watermark
• DVD Burning

Honorable Mentions

In this article, I will mention two more video converters in addition to the HEVC converters mentioned above. You can try them according to your convenience and requirements.

9. AVS Video Converter

Supported Platforms: Windows Only

Free Version Limitations

Watermark is added to the output video if you make the edits mentioned below:

• Cut, trim, or apply video and audio effects
• Splitting videos by size or chapters
• Correcting the aspect ratio
• Creating stylish DVD/Blu-ray
• Exporting audio from video in MP3/WAV
• Using command-line mode.

AVS Video Converter, despite its outdated interface, offers advanced features that many contemporary video converters lack. One of its standout capabilities is H.265 video conversion (input only), along with support for output resolutions up to 4K UHD. The program allows you to convert videos into various formats, including MP4, MOV, MKS, AVI, DVD, WMV, WebM, and more. You can choose the format based on devices and web platforms and customize the output settings to suit your needs. Additionally, the Software supports batch conversion and file merging.

If your needs are confined to basic video conversion without watermarks in the output file, the free version of this program will work well for you. However, if you require more robust features, such as editing, merging, etc., you must purchase the application.

Note: HEVC codec is not supported for output in AVS Video Converter.

Extra Features

• Basic Editing Tools
• DVD/Blu-ray Disc Burning

10. Movavi Video Converter

Supported Platforms: Windows and macOS

Free Trial Limitations:

Movavi has a free trial limitation period of 7 Days. During the free trial period, you can:

• Convert a video with a watermark on the output files.
• You can only convert half the file length when converting audio files and while working with SuperSpeed mode for video.
• AI upscaling is not available with the trial version as well.

Among the numerous video converters available, Movavi Video Converter earns an honorable mention in the list of HEVC converters. This easy-to-use video conversion tool supports converting videos into over 180 formats, including popular ones for mobile devices, audio devices, images, and more. Some of the codecs supported by Movavi Video Converter are H.263, H.264, MPEG-4, XVID, VIDX, and others. Video formats include MP4, MPEG, .mov, WMV, 3GPP, HTML5, and others.

Does Movavi Video Converter support HEVC?

Note: Movavi doesn't support the HEVC codec. I contacted the support agent, and here is what they said.

Officially, Movavi software still does not fully support this codec. The success of converting H.265 files to H.264 and converting to H.265 codec depends largely on the configuration of your device and the codecs installed on it.

During my test, I was able to handle both HEVC input and output, along with other codec conversions in Movavi Video Converter, as the HEVC extension for Windows was installed on my system.

Extra Features

• AI Upscaling
• Compression
• Audio Converter
• Image converter
• Basic Editing Tools

Benefits of Paid HEVC Converters

The paid model of the programs mentioned above lets you unlock their full potential, allowing for HEVC conversion with ease away from the restrictions of free trial limitations.

Not to forget, the paid HEVC converters mentioned in the list above not only provide faster video conversion but also come with a plethora of useful multimedia functions, including AI tools, which are available in the paid version only.

Note: It is always ideal to try out the program before purchasing to assess whether it meets your needs or not.

How to choose the best HEVC video converter?

When choosing the best HEVC video converters, it is ideal to consider several key factors:

Conversion Speed

Conversion speed plays a huge role in selecting video converters. A slow converter can be frustrating, especially when converting a long video. To help you, the table above lists the conversion times for different HEVC video converters, highlighting the fastest options.

Max Output Resolution

Before looking for the best converters, take some time to understand your input and output video resolution needs. Most programs listed here provide support for upto 4K resolution conversion, and others can convert upto 8K resolution as their maximum capacity. If your needs range from Full HD to 8K, the list below can help you decide which one of them best meets your needs.

Hardware Acceleration

Another notable function to consider before selecting the best HEVC video converter is hardware acceleration. This feature helps you speed up the conversion process without overloading your system's CPU consumption. Hence, ensure the video converter you choose provides hardware acceleration support to make the conversion task faster and more efficient with your GPU's power.

Batch Upload

This function allows you to avoid the hassle of converting your media files one by one. Hence, I suggest you look for converters that can handle batch uploads. It will allow you to convert multiple media files simultaneously, saving you time and effort.

Editing Options

An inbuilt editor is extremely handy in a video converter. It eliminates the need to install a separate program to handle editing tasks, saving you time and system space.

Value for Money

Finally, it is essential to ensure the program you select fits within your budget while meeting your needs. This one can't be taken for granted.

FAQs

Which converter supports AI?

Of the above converters mentioned in the list, Wondershare UniConverter, HitPaw Univd, WinX Video AI, and Movavi Video Converter support AI.

Are AI features free?

Yes, it is free to some extent. However, to enjoy the full benefits of the AI features, you must purchase the product.

The free trial of WixVideo AI and Hitpaw Univd have limitations when using AI features. Movavi Video Converter has one AI feature with no limitation, but the video will have a watermark during the trial.

On the other hand, Wondershare Uniconverter's AI features work differently. Based on different plans, Uniconverter offers between 200-1000 AI credits to its users. Once the credits are exhausted, you must purchase additional AI credits to continue using AI features.

Are Free HEVC Converters as good as paid ones?

Both are good. However, there's a small catch.

Some free video converters offer a watermark on the output file that can make the experience underwhelming. Hence, to unlock the full potential, it's best to use a paid application. As a plus, you can also take advantage of some additional features that come with paid video converter apps.

What is the difference between Desktop and online HEVC Converters

Online video converters need an internet connection to work, and the conversion speed depends on your internet speed. On the other hand, desktop converters will convert your video offline, and often, they have hardware acceleration to speed up conversion speed without slowing down your system.

Online video converters are a good option if you want to convert small video files; however, for efficient video conversion tasks, it is best to go with desktop video converters like the ones mentioned in this article.

Conclusion

The programs I have listed above are among the best HEVC converters available, both Free and Paid. They are designed to make video conversion tasks less tedious and more enjoyable. Many of these programs, including WonderFox HD Video Converter, Wondershare Uniconverter, HitPaw Univd, and Any Video Converter, offer impressive additional media toolkits. These toolkits not only offer video conversion but also act as a one-stop solution for other media-related tasks.

I recommend getting either Wondershare Uniconverter or WonderFox HD Video Converter Factory Pro. These HEVC converters offer impressive video conversion capabilities and a host of additional features. Wondershare Uniconverter also includes AI functions, which are perfect for those interested in trying out modern technology.

However, if you prefer a free HEVC video conversion tool, HandBrake and VidCoder are good choices. While the intimidating customization may seem overwhelming at first, you will find them easy to use within a few days of use. They both can handle your basic HEVC video conversion needs.