Is this AVI converter really free?

Yes. Converting videos to AVI here is completely free with no sign-up, no watermark and no account-imposed file limit. The tool is supported by unobtrusive advertising and an optional Pro plan, but the core conversion is free forever.

Are my videos uploaded to a server when I convert to AVI?

No. The conversion runs entirely on your device using FFmpeg compiled to WebAssembly. Your file is read directly in the browser, transcoded locally to AVI, and offered back to you as a download. Nothing is sent to us or any third party, which makes it private and GDPR-friendly by design.

Which formats can I convert to AVI?

You can convert MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV, FLV, MPEG, MPG, M4V, TS, MTS, M2TS, VOB, OGV, 3GP, ASF, F4V, RMVB, AVCHD and DV to AVI. Drag in a single file or a whole batch — the queue converts each one in sequence and lets you download them together as a ZIP.

How do I convert MP4 to AVI?

Drop your .mp4 file onto the upload area (or click to browse), keep the default Xvid preset or open Advanced settings to choose a codec, then press Convert. The MP4 is decoded and re-encoded into an AVI container in your browser, and a Download button appears when it finishes. Converting MP4 to AVI is common when you need a file for older Windows software, a legacy editor or a non-streaming device.

How do I convert MOV to AVI?

Add your QuickTime .mov file, choose an AVI codec such as MPEG-4 (Xvid) or MJPEG, and click Convert. MOV uses Apple’s container while AVI uses Microsoft’s RIFF container, so the streams are re-wrapped and re-encoded rather than simply copied. AVI output is useful when a Windows-only tool or older editing program will not open a MOV file.

How do I convert MKV to AVI?

Upload the .mkv file, pick your AVI codec and press Convert. MKV (Matroska) is a flexible modern container that many legacy players cannot open, so converting to AVI makes the video playable in older Windows applications and editors. Note that MKV often carries multiple subtitle and audio tracks; AVI supports only a single audio stream and has limited subtitle support, so extra tracks are dropped.

How do I convert WEBM to AVI?

Add your .webm file, keep MPEG-4 (Xvid) for broad compatibility, and click Convert. WEBM uses the VP8/VP9 or AV1 codecs that older software cannot decode, so converting to AVI re-encodes the video to a codec that legacy Windows tools and editors understand. The result is a larger but far more compatible file for offline and legacy use.

How do I convert WMV to AVI?

Drop your Windows Media .wmv file in and press Convert. Both WMV and AVI are Microsoft formats, but AVI with an Xvid or MJPEG codec is accepted by a wider range of editors and older hardware than WMV. This conversion is handy when an editing program imports AVI but rejects WMV.

How do I convert FLV to AVI?

Upload the old Flash .flv video and convert. FLV is a legacy streaming format that modern and legacy desktop tools rarely support; re-encoding it to AVI with Xvid or MJPEG produces a standard file you can edit and archive on Windows. Expect the AVI to be larger than the original FLV.

Is AVI better than MP4?

Neither is universally better — it depends on your goal. AVI is better for legacy Windows software, older hardware, DVD authoring, CCTV/archival workflows and editors that demand a classic container or an intra-frame codec like MJPEG. MP4 is better for the modern web, mobile devices, streaming and small file sizes. As a rule: choose AVI for compatibility with old systems and editing, and MP4 for sharing and streaming.

Why are AVI files so large?

AVI files are larger than MP4 mainly because the AVI container has high per-chunk overhead and because the codecs commonly paired with it — such as MJPEG or older MPEG-4 (Xvid/DivX) — are far less efficient than modern H.264, H.265 or AV1. AVI also lacks advanced features like B-frame referencing in some legacy codecs and adds index and header overhead, so the same footage takes more space. If small size matters, MP4 is the better target.

What codecs does AVI support?

AVI is a container, so it can hold many codecs. Common AVI video codecs are MPEG-4 Part 2 (Xvid and DivX), Motion JPEG (MJPEG), legacy Microsoft MPEG-4, and H.264-in-AVI. Common AVI audio codecs are MP3, uncompressed PCM/WAV, AC3 and AAC. For maximum legacy compatibility, MPEG-4 (Xvid) video with MP3 audio is the safest pairing.

What is the best codec for AVI?

For general use and legacy compatibility, MPEG-4 (Xvid) is the best AVI codec because it plays on the widest range of old software and hardware while keeping files reasonably sized. For video editing where you scrub frame by frame, MJPEG is preferable because every frame is independent. For the smallest AVI, Xvid or DivX at a higher CRF beats MJPEG by a wide margin.

Will converting to AVI lose quality?

Re-encoding always involves some loss, but with the right settings it is visually negligible. Choosing a low CRF (around 16) with MPEG-4 (Xvid), or using MJPEG at high quality, keeps the picture very close to the source. Because AVI codecs are less efficient than MP4 codecs, preserving the same visual quality simply produces a larger file rather than a worse picture.

Can I convert video to AVI without losing quality?

You can keep quality visually lossless, though AVI cannot store an exact bit-for-bit copy unless the source already used a matching codec. For near-lossless results, use MPEG-4 (Xvid) at a low CRF such as 14–16, or MJPEG at maximum quality, and keep the original resolution and frame rate. The trade-off is a noticeably larger file than an equivalent MP4.

Is AVI good for video editing?

Yes, AVI is well suited to editing, especially with an intra-frame codec like MJPEG where every frame is stored independently. Intra-frame AVI lets editing software scrub, cut and seek frame-accurately without decoding a whole group of pictures, which is why many older and professional Windows editors prefer it. The downside is large file sizes, so AVI is best as an intermediate editing format rather than a delivery format.

Why convert video to AVI for old devices?

Many older DVD players, set-top boxes, early smart TVs and Windows XP/7 era media players were built around the AVI container with DivX or Xvid codecs and cannot decode modern MP4/H.264 or MKV files. Converting to AVI with a legacy-friendly codec lets that footage play on hardware that predates current standards. This is a common need for digitising old camcorder tapes and viewing video on legacy equipment.

Does AVI support subtitles?

AVI has only very limited subtitle support compared with MKV or MP4. The original AVI specification has no standard internal subtitle track, so subtitles are usually supplied as a separate external file (such as .srt) that sits alongside the video, or are permanently burned into the picture. If you need soft, switchable subtitles inside the file, MKV or MP4 is a better container than AVI.

Can VLC play AVI files?

Yes. VLC Media Player plays virtually every AVI file, including those encoded with Xvid, DivX, MJPEG or legacy MPEG-4, because it bundles its own decoders and does not rely on the operating system’s codecs. VLC is one of the most reliable ways to play AVI on Windows, macOS and Linux, which is why it is often recommended when an AVI will not open in a default player.

Does AVI support 5.1 surround sound?

AVI can carry multichannel audio such as 5.1 when paired with the AC3 codec, which is the format historically used for surround sound in AVI files. PCM and MP3 audio in AVI are typically stereo, so for 5.1 surround you should choose AC3 audio during conversion. Keep in mind that some very old players only handle stereo, so stereo MP3 is the most compatible choice.

What audio codecs work in AVI?

AVI commonly uses MP3 audio for the best balance of size and compatibility, PCM/WAV for uncompressed lossless audio, AC3 for 5.1 surround sound, and AAC for better efficiency on newer players. MP3 is the safest universal choice for legacy hardware, while PCM is preferred when you are editing and want pristine audio. Pick the audio codec to match the player or workflow you are targeting.

Is AVI good for streaming or the web?

No, AVI is a poor choice for web and streaming. It has no native fast-start mechanism, high container overhead, larger files and codecs that browsers do not decode, so almost no website or social platform accepts AVI uploads. For anything web-facing, convert to MP4 (H.264 + AAC) instead; reserve AVI for offline, legacy and editing use.

Can I convert multiple videos to AVI at once?

Yes. Add as many files as you like and the batch queue converts them one after another, showing live progress for each. When everything finishes you can download files individually or grab them all in a single ZIP archive.

Is there a file-size limit when converting to AVI?

Because conversion happens in your browser, the practical limit is your device’s memory rather than an artificial server cap. Most browsers comfortably handle files up to a couple of gigabytes. Since AVI output is often larger than the source, leave plenty of free disk and memory headroom, and use a desktop browser for long or high-resolution videos.

How long does AVI conversion take?

It depends on the video length, resolution, chosen codec and your device. MPEG-4 (Xvid) encodes quickly, while MJPEG is fast per frame but produces very large files that take longer to write. A short clip usually finishes in well under a minute; long or high-resolution videos take several minutes. A live progress bar keeps you informed throughout.

Can I change the resolution or frame rate when converting to AVI?

Yes. In Advanced settings you can downscale to 240p, 360p, 480p, 720p, 1080p or higher (or set a custom width and height), and lock the frame rate to 24, 25, 30 or 60 fps. Because AVI files are large, downscaling and lowering the frame rate are the most effective ways to keep the output manageable.

Can I trim, crop or rotate while converting to AVI?

Yes. The advanced tools let you trim the start and end, crop to a region, rotate in 90° steps, flip horizontally or vertically, change playback speed and adjust volume — all applied during the single conversion pass so there is no extra quality loss.

Does the AVI converter work on mobile phones?

Yes. The converter runs in modern mobile browsers on Android and iOS. AVI conversions can be slower and more memory-hungry on phones because AVI output is large, so for long or high-resolution videos a laptop or desktop is recommended.

Can I convert a video to AVI from a URL?

Yes, when the hosting server allows cross-origin downloads. Paste a direct link to a video file and it will be fetched into the queue for conversion to AVI. Some servers block this for security (CORS); in that case, download the file first and then upload it.

Is there a free online AVI converter with no watermark?

Yes. This free online AVI converter never adds a watermark, logo or overlay to your video. The output AVI is exactly what your settings specify with nothing added — unlike many free desktop apps and some online services that stamp their branding onto the result.

Can I convert video to AVI without uploading?

Yes — that is the core of how this tool works. There is no upload step at all. The video is read directly from your device by the browser, transcoded to AVI locally with WebAssembly FFmpeg, and handed back to you. Nothing is transmitted over the network, which is ideal for confidential or very large files.

Is this a secure way to convert video to AVI?

It is one of the most secure ways to convert video because your file never leaves your computer. Cloud converters upload your video, store it temporarily and process it on a remote server you do not control. Here the file stays in your browser’s memory and is discarded when you close the tab.

Does this AVI converter use FFmpeg?

Yes. It runs the real FFmpeg engine compiled to WebAssembly. Every setting you choose — codec, resolution, bitrate, trim, crop, rotate — maps to genuine FFmpeg parameters, so you get the same control as a command-line FFmpeg conversion to AVI, but through a simple interface.

How do I convert MPEG or MPG to AVI?

Add the .mpeg or .mpg file and convert. These older MPEG-1/MPEG-2 program streams re-encode cleanly into AVI with an Xvid or MJPEG codec, which is useful when a legacy Windows editor accepts AVI but not raw MPEG streams. Choose MP3 audio for the widest player compatibility.

How do I convert TS, MTS or M2TS to AVI?

Upload the transport-stream or AVCHD camcorder file (.ts, .mts, .m2ts) and convert to AVI. These broadcast and camcorder formats often will not open in older editing software, so re-wrapping them as AVI with Xvid makes the footage editable on legacy Windows tools. Expect a larger output file than the original stream.

How do I convert 3GP to AVI?

Add the old mobile .3gp clip and click Convert. 3GP is a low-resolution format from older phones; converting to AVI standardises it for legacy Windows playback and editing. Because the source is usually small and low-resolution, the AVI will look the same but take up more space.

Can I convert a VOB (DVD) file to AVI?

Yes. Upload the .vob file from a DVD’s VIDEO_TS folder and convert it to AVI with Xvid or DivX — historically one of the most popular ways to back up DVD video into a compact, editable file. Note that copy-protected commercial discs cannot be converted, as this tool does not remove DRM.

Will the AVI keep the same aspect ratio?

Yes. The converter preserves your video’s original aspect ratio by default. When you choose a target resolution it scales proportionally using an even-pixel constraint, so the picture is never stretched or squashed unless you deliberately set a custom width and height.

Does converting to AVI lose audio?

No — audio is kept by default. You can re-encode it to MP3, PCM, AC3 or AAC, or deliberately remove it for a silent AVI. If a converted file is unexpectedly silent, check that the audio codec is not set to “No audio”, and remember that AVI carries a single audio track only.

Can I convert video to AVI on a Mac, Windows or Linux?

Yes. Because it runs in the browser, the converter works identically on Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS and mobile operating systems. Any up-to-date browser with WebAssembly support (Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari) can produce an AVI — even though AVI itself is most at home on Windows.

What is the best AVI setting for old DVD players?

For legacy DVD players that support DivX/Xvid playback, use MPEG-4 (Xvid or DivX) video with MP3 audio at 480p or 576p and a standard frame rate. This was the de-facto “DivX disc” combination that most compatible players were certified for. Keep the resolution within standard-definition limits, since many old players reject high-definition AVI files.

How do I reduce AVI file size?

Use MPEG-4 (Xvid) instead of MJPEG, raise the CRF value (try 24–28), lower the resolution (for example 1080p to 720p), reduce the frame rate, and use MP3 audio at a lower bitrate. MJPEG always produces very large AVIs, so switching away from it is the single biggest size saving. If you need genuinely small files, MP4 is more efficient than any AVI codec.

Why is my AVI file bigger than the original?

AVI files are usually larger than the source because AVI codecs are less efficient than the modern codecs (H.264, H.265, VP9, AV1) found in MP4, MKV and WEBM, and because the AVI container adds index and per-chunk overhead. This is expected behaviour when converting an efficient MP4 to AVI. To minimise the increase, use Xvid at a higher CRF and avoid MJPEG.

Is AVI an outdated or obsolete format?

AVI is old — it dates from 1992 — but it is not obsolete; it remains widely used for legacy hardware, archival storage, CCTV systems and editing workflows that rely on intra-frame codecs. It has simply been superseded by MP4 and MKV for modern web and streaming use. AVI is the right choice when compatibility with older systems and editors matters more than file size.

Can old smart TVs and media players read AVI?

Many older smart TVs, set-top boxes and USB media players were designed around AVI with DivX or Xvid and play it directly from a USB stick. For best results, use MPEG-4 (Xvid/DivX) video, MP3 audio and a standard-definition or 720p resolution, since some legacy TVs reject high-bitrate or high-resolution AVI files. Always test one short clip on the device before converting a large library.

What does CRF mean for AVI conversion?

CRF (Constant Rate Factor) controls quality for the MPEG-4 (Xvid) encoder: lower numbers mean higher quality and larger files. For AVI, a CRF around 16 is near-lossless, 20–22 is a good balance, and 26–28 produces a smaller, softer file. MJPEG uses a quality setting rather than CRF, since every frame is a standalone JPEG.

Should I use AVI or MKV for archiving?

For modern archiving, MKV is usually better because it supports efficient codecs, multiple tracks, chapters and subtitles in one file. AVI remains a valid archival choice when you specifically need compatibility with legacy Windows tools or an intra-frame MJPEG master for editing. If file size and feature richness matter most, choose MKV; if legacy compatibility is the priority, choose AVI.

How do I convert OGV, ASF, F4V or RMVB to AVI?

Add the .ogv, .asf, .f4v or .rmvb file, pick an AVI codec such as Xvid or MJPEG, and click Convert. These less common formats are re-encoded into the AVI container so older Windows software and editors can open them. As with all AVI output, expect the result to be larger than the original file.

How do I convert DV or AVCHD to AVI?

Upload the DV tape capture or AVCHD camcorder file and convert. DV footage in particular pairs naturally with AVI and MJPEG for editing, since both are intra-frame and frame-accurate. Converting AVCHD to AVI makes high-definition camcorder clips importable into older editing programs that do not read AVCHD streams.

Video to AVI Converter Free Online – Convert MP4, MOV, MKV to AVI

Why this is the best free Video to AVI converter

100% Private

Conversion runs in your browser with WebAssembly FFmpeg. Your video never leaves your device.

No Upload Wait

There is nothing to upload — processing starts the moment you hit convert.

Batch Queue

Convert dozens of videos to AVI in one go and download them all as a single ZIP.

Choose Your Codec

Pick MPEG-4 (Xvid), DivX or MJPEG — or use a one-click legacy preset.

Trim, Crop & Rotate

Edit while you convert: trim, crop, rotate, flip, change speed and adjust volume.

No Watermark

Free, unlimited and watermark-free — keep your video exactly as it should be.

20+ Input Formats

MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV, FLV, TS, VOB, 3GP and many more all convert to AVI.

Legacy-Friendly

Built-in presets target old DVD players, smart TVs, Windows XP/7 and classic editors.

What is AVI?

AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is a multimedia container format introduced by Microsoft in 1992 as part of its Video for Windows technology. It is built on the RIFF (Resource Interchange File Format) structure and stores video frames and audio samples in alternating, interleaved chunks — which is exactly where the name comes from. That interleaving lets a player read a little video and a little audio at a time, keeping the two in sync during playback.

Because AVI is only a container, it does not define how the video itself is compressed — that is the job of the codec stored inside. Over the decades AVI has carried everything from raw uncompressed frames to MJPEG, legacy Microsoft MPEG-4, and the hugely popular DivX and Xvid codecs. This flexibility, combined with deep integration into Windows, is why AVI became one of the most widely supported video formats of the 1990s and 2000s.

AVI is still in active use today for legacy playback, archival, CCTV recording and video editing, even though MP4 and MKV have largely replaced it for the modern web. Converting a video to AVI makes sense when you need a file that older Windows software, classic editing programs or legacy hardware can reliably open.

Why Convert Video to AVI?

Most people convert to AVI for compatibility rather than convenience. AVI is the format that older systems and software were designed around, so it remains the reliable choice when a modern container like MP4 or MKV simply will not open.

Legacy devicesOld DVD players, set-top boxes, early smart TVs and USB media players were built for DivX/Xvid AVI and often cannot decode modern MP4 or MKV.

Legacy editing softwareMany classic Windows video editors import AVI — especially intra-frame MJPEG AVI — far more reliably than newer formats.

DVD authoringXvid and DivX AVI files were the standard intermediate for burning “DivX discs” that compatible DVD players could read.

CCTV & archivalSurveillance systems and archives frequently record or store footage as AVI for its simple, robust, widely understood structure.

Maximum compatibilityWhen you do not know what software the recipient has, an Xvid + MP3 AVI is one of the most broadly playable legacy options.

How to Convert Video to AVI

Converting any video to AVI takes three simple steps and no technical knowledge:

1. Add your videoDrag and drop one or more files onto the upload area, click to browse, paste a file, or import from a direct URL. MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV, FLV and many other formats are accepted.

2. Choose your codecKeep the MPEG-4 (Xvid) default for broad compatibility, switch to MJPEG for editing, or open Advanced settings to fine-tune resolution, frame rate, audio codec and trimming.

3. Convert and downloadPress Convert and watch the live progress bar. When it finishes, download your AVI directly, or — for batches — download every file at once in a ZIP.

Best AVI Settings for Every Use Case

The right AVI settings depend on whether you care most about quality, file size, editing or legacy playback. As a rule of thumb, choose MPEG-4 (Xvid) + MP3 for compatibility and small size, and switch to MJPEG + PCM when you need a frame-accurate file for editing.

Highest qualityMPEG-4 (Xvid) at CRF 16, or MJPEG at maximum quality, original resolution, MP3 320 kbps or PCM audio. Near-lossless but large.

Smallest fileMPEG-4 (Xvid), 720p, CRF 26–28, MP3 128 kbps. The most efficient AVI configuration — avoid MJPEG, which is always large.

EditingMJPEG with PCM audio at original resolution. Every frame is independent, so editors can scrub and cut frame-accurately.

Legacy deviceDivX or Xvid, 480p–576p, standard frame rate, MP3 audio. The classic combination certified by old DVD players and media boxes.

AVI Codecs Explained

AVI is a container, so the codec inside it determines quality, file size and compatibility. Choosing the right codec is the single most important decision when converting to AVI.

MPEG-4 Part 2 — implemented as Xvid (open-source) and DivX (commercial) — is the most popular AVI video codec. It compresses efficiently for an AVI and plays on a huge range of legacy software and hardware, which makes it the safest default. MJPEG (Motion JPEG) stores each frame as a separate JPEG; it is intra-frame, so it is ideal for editing but produces much larger files. H.264 in AVI is possible and efficient, but it is non-standard for the container and can confuse older players, so it is best avoided unless you specifically need it.

On the audio side, MP3 is the most compatible choice, PCM/WAV gives uncompressed quality for editing, AC3 enables 5.1 surround, and AAC offers better efficiency on newer players. Matching the audio codec to your target device avoids silent or unplayable files.

AVI and Legacy Compatibility

AVI’s greatest strength is its compatibility with the past. Windows XP and Windows 7 era systems, classic Media Player builds, old camcorder software and a generation of DVD players and media boxes were all designed around the AVI container with DivX or Xvid codecs.

To maximise compatibility with legacy hardware, keep things conservative: use DivX or Xvid video, MP3 audio, a standard frame rate, and a standard-definition or 720p resolution. Many old players reject high-bitrate or high-resolution AVI files, so a modest, well-supported configuration plays far more reliably than a maxed-out one. When you are unsure, test one short converted clip on the target device before processing an entire library.

For everything web-facing, AVI is the wrong tool — browsers and social platforms do not accept it. Use AVI strictly for offline, legacy and editing scenarios, and convert to MP4 when you need to share or stream.

Convert to AVI in 3 steps

Add your video file

Drag and drop your MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV or FLV file onto the converter, or click to browse. You can add multiple files for batch conversion to AVI.

Choose your AVI codec and settings

Keep MPEG-4 (Xvid) for compatibility, choose MJPEG for editing, or open Advanced settings to select resolution, frame rate, audio codec and trimming.

Convert to AVI and download

Press Convert to transcode the video in your browser, then download the finished AVI individually or as a ZIP for batches.

Supported Video Formats

Convert any of these formats to AVI in your browser — drag in a single file or a whole batch.

MP4AVI

MOVAVI

MKVAVI

WEBMAVI

WMVAVI

FLVAVI

MPEGAVI

MPGAVI

M4VAVI

TSAVI

MTSAVI

M2TSAVI

VOBAVI

OGVAVI

3GPAVI

ASFAVI

F4VAVI

RMVBAVI

AVCHDAVI

DVAVI

AVI vs MP4: A Detailed Comparison

AVI and MP4 solve different problems. AVI wins on legacy compatibility and editing; MP4 wins on size and the modern web. Here is how they compare across the factors that matter.

Aspect	AVI	MP4
File size	Large — high overhead and less efficient codecs	Small — efficient modern compression
Compatibility	Excellent on legacy Windows software and old hardware	Excellent on modern devices, browsers and the web
Quality	Good — quality kept by using a larger file	Excellent — high quality at a much smaller size
Compression	Older codecs (Xvid, DivX, MJPEG)	Modern codecs (H.264, H.265, AV1)
Streaming	Poor — no fast-start, not web-friendly	Excellent — fast-start streaming built in
Editing	Excellent with intra-frame MJPEG	Good, but long-GOP codecs are heavier to scrub
Subtitle support	Limited — usually external or burned-in	Supported — soft subtitle tracks possible
Best use case	Legacy playback, editing, DVD authoring, archival	Web, mobile, streaming and social media

Choose AVI when you need compatibility with older Windows software, legacy hardware, classic editing programs, DVD authoring or CCTV/archival workflows. Its interleaved RIFF structure and intra-frame codec options make it dependable for offline and editing tasks, even though files are larger.

Choose MP4 for almost everything modern: sharing, streaming, mobile playback and social media. MP4 with H.264 and AAC gives you a small, high-quality file that plays virtually everywhere and uploads to every major platform.

The honest summary: AVI trades file size and web features for legacy compatibility, while MP4 trades a little legacy reach for efficiency and universal modern support. Pick the format that matches where the video needs to play, not just personal habit.

Common Reasons to Convert Video to AVI

Old player needs AVI

Many legacy DVD players, set-top boxes and early smart TVs only decode DivX/Xvid AVI, not modern MP4 or MKV.

Your editor wants AVI

Classic Windows editing software imports AVI — especially intra-frame MJPEG — far more reliably than newer containers.

Windows XP / 7 software

Older Windows programs and capture tools were built around AVI and may refuse to open MP4 or WEBM files.

DVD / DivX authoring

Xvid and DivX AVI is the standard intermediate for burning DivX-certified discs that compatible players can read.

Archival & CCTV

Surveillance and archive systems often record or store AVI for its simple, robust, widely understood structure.

Frame-accurate editing

Intra-frame MJPEG AVI lets editors scrub and cut frame by frame without decoding a whole group of pictures.

Maximum legacy reach

When you do not know the recipient’s software, an Xvid + MP3 AVI is one of the most broadly playable legacy options.

Format the tool demands

Some specialised or industrial tools accept only AVI input — converting first avoids rejected or unreadable files.

AVI Codec Guide

AVI is a container, so the codec inside it decides quality, file size and compatibility. Here is when to reach for each one.

MPEG-4 (Xvid)

Recommended

The open-source MPEG-4 Part 2 codec and the most popular choice for AVI. Compresses efficiently for the container and plays on a huge range of legacy software and hardware.

When to use: Use Xvid as your default AVI codec. It is the safest pick for compatible playback, legacy devices and reasonably sized files.

DivX

Legacy playback

The commercial MPEG-4 Part 2 codec, largely interchangeable with Xvid. It is the codec most “DivX-certified” DVD players and media boxes were designed to decode.

When to use: Choose DivX when you are targeting a DivX-certified DVD player or set-top box that lists DivX support on the device.

H.264 in AVI

Efficient

H.264 can be stored inside AVI for much better compression than Xvid, but this pairing is non-standard and can confuse older players that expect MPEG-4 or MJPEG.

When to use: Only use H.264-in-AVI when you specifically need a smaller AVI and you know the target player supports it. Otherwise prefer MP4 for H.264.

MJPEG

Editing

Motion JPEG stores every frame as a standalone JPEG image. It is intra-frame, so each frame decodes independently — excellent for editing but it produces very large files.

When to use: Pick MJPEG when you need a frame-accurate AVI for editing or capture. Avoid it for delivery, where its large size is a drawback.

MS-MPEG-4 (legacy)

Very old

Microsoft’s early MPEG-4 codec variants that predate Xvid and DivX. Kept only for compatibility with very old Windows software and hardware.

When to use: Only choose legacy MS-MPEG-4 for genuinely ancient players that cannot handle Xvid. For everything else, Xvid looks better at the same size.

Best AVI Settings for Every Goal

Highest Quality AVI

Near-lossless picture for masters and re-editing. Large files, best fidelity.

MPEG-4 (Xvid) · CRF 16 · MP3 320 kbps · original resolution

Smallest AVI

The most efficient AVI configuration for storage and legacy sharing.

MPEG-4 (Xvid) · CRF 27 · 720p · MP3 128 kbps

Editing AVI

Intra-frame file that editors can scrub and cut frame-accurately.

MJPEG · high quality · PCM audio · original resolution

Legacy Device AVI

The classic DivX-disc combination certified by old DVD players and media boxes.

DivX / Xvid · 480p–576p · standard fps · MP3 192 kbps

AVI Legacy Compatibility Presets

One-click presets that pick a codec combination proven on specific legacy hardware and software — so you do not have to guess.

Windows XP Compatible

Plays in Windows Media Player and classic XP-era software with the standard DivX/Xvid codec pack.

MPEG-4 (Xvid) video · MP3 audio · 480p · standard frame rate

Windows 7 Compatible

Reliable playback on Windows 7 systems and editors that import classic AVI.

MPEG-4 (Xvid) video · MP3 audio · 720p · standard frame rate

Legacy DVD Player

The DivX-certified disc combination most older DVD players were built to decode from USB or disc.

DivX video · MP3 audio · 576p / 480p · standard-definition bitrate

Old Smart TV

Conservative AVI that plays from a USB stick on early smart TVs and media boxes.

Xvid video · MP3 audio · 720p · moderate bitrate

Editing Software

Intra-frame master for frame-accurate editing in classic Windows video editors.

MJPEG video · PCM (uncompressed) audio · original resolution

Maximum Compatibility

The broadest legacy combination when you do not know the recipient’s player.

MPEG-4 (Xvid) video · MP3 stereo audio · 480p · standard frame rate

AVI Use Cases

Playing on legacy hardwareMake old DVD players, set-top boxes and early smart TVs play your footage with a DivX/Xvid AVI from USB.

Importing into old editorsFeed classic Windows editing programs an AVI — especially MJPEG — that they import more reliably than MP4 or MKV.

DVD and DivX authoringCreate the Xvid/DivX AVI intermediate used to burn DivX-certified discs for compatible players.

Long-term archivalStore footage in a simple, robust, widely understood container for archives and surveillance records.

Legacy Windows softwareSupply older Windows programs and capture tools with the AVI format they were originally designed around.

Frame-accurate workflowsUse intra-frame MJPEG AVI when every cut and scrub needs to land on an exact frame.

Digitising old mediaConvert captured camcorder, VHS or DV footage into editable AVI for cleanup and preservation.

Sharing with old systemsHand someone a file that plays even on dated software, using the broadly compatible Xvid + MP3 combination.

Privacy First: No Upload, No Tracking

Unlike cloud converters that send your video to a remote server, this tool processes everything locally. Your footage stays yours.

No upload requiredYour video is never sent anywhere — there is no upload step at all.

Files stay on your deviceThe original and the AVI live only in your browser, never on a server.

Browser-based processingAll transcoding to AVI happens locally using your device’s own processor.

FFmpeg WebAssemblyReal FFmpeg compiled to Wasm runs the conversion right inside the page.

No account requiredNo sign-up, no email, no login — just open the page and convert to AVI.

No file retentionNothing is stored or logged; files are released when you close the tab.

How AVI Conversion Technology Works

How does FFmpeg convert video to AVI?

FFmpeg is the industry-standard open-source engine behind most video software. To make an AVI it decodes the frames and audio from your source file, applies any filters you chose (scaling, cropping, rotating, changing frame rate or speed), re-encodes the video with an AVI codec such as MPEG-4 (Xvid) or MJPEG and the audio with MP3 or PCM, then writes everything into the AVI RIFF container with the interleaved chunks and index that legacy players expect.

What is the AVI (RIFF) container?

AVI is built on RIFF, the Resource Interchange File Format Microsoft created for storing tagged chunks of data. An AVI file is a sequence of chunks: a header describing the streams, then interleaved blocks of video and audio data, followed by an index that maps where each chunk lives. This simple, well-documented structure is why AVI is so robust and so widely readable on older systems — and why it carries more overhead than modern containers like MP4.

How does video conversion work in the browser?

Normally FFmpeg runs as a native program. Here it is compiled to WebAssembly, a portable binary format that browsers execute at near-native speed. Your browser reads the file you select, hands its bytes to the Wasm FFmpeg module, runs the exact same conversion logic in a background worker thread, and returns the finished AVI as a downloadable blob — all without a server.

Why does AVI produce larger files than MP4?

Two reasons. First, the codecs typically used with AVI — MJPEG and older MPEG-4 Part 2 (Xvid/DivX) — are far less efficient than the H.264, H.265 and AV1 codecs in MP4, so they need more data for the same quality. Second, the AVI container itself adds per-chunk and index overhead. The result is that converting an efficient MP4 to AVI almost always increases the file size, which is normal and expected.

Why is local conversion safer than cloud conversion?

With local conversion your video never travels across the internet, is never stored on a third-party server and is never exposed to that server’s staff, logs, breaches or retention policies. The only copy of your file is the one on your own device, which is the strongest possible privacy guarantee for sensitive footage.

15 Pro Tips for Converting Video to AVI

1Default to MPEG-4 (Xvid)It plays on the widest range of legacy software and hardware while keeping AVI files reasonably sized — the safest codec for general use.

2Use MJPEG for editingMJPEG is intra-frame, so every frame decodes independently. Editors scrub and cut frame-accurately, at the cost of much larger files.

3Choose MP3 audio for compatibilityMP3 plays on virtually every AVI-capable player. Reserve PCM for editing and AC3 for 5.1 surround.

4Expect bigger files than the sourceAVI codecs are less efficient than MP4 codecs, so the output is usually larger — this is normal, not a fault.

5Best legacy DVD-player settingDivX or Xvid video, MP3 audio, 480p–576p and a standard frame rate — the classic DivX-disc combination old players were certified for.

6Keep resolution modest for old hardwareMany legacy players reject high-bitrate or high-resolution AVI, so 480p–720p plays far more reliably than 1080p+.

7Use CRF, not a fixed bitrateFor Xvid, CRF 16 is near-lossless, 20–22 is balanced, and 26–28 is smaller and softer. Leave bitrate on Auto (CRF).

8Avoid MJPEG when size mattersMJPEG always produces very large AVIs. If you need a small file, switch to Xvid — it is the single biggest size saving.

9Downscale before lowering bitrateReducing 1080p to 720p saves far more space than squeezing the bitrate while keeping the higher resolution.

10Lower the frame rate to save spaceGoing from 60 fps to 30 fps roughly halves the motion data and noticeably shrinks the AVI.

11Use PCM audio for editing mastersUncompressed PCM avoids audio generation loss during editing — worth the extra size when the AVI is an intermediate.

12Trim first, then convertCutting unwanted intro/outro seconds before converting reduces both encode time and the already-large AVI size.

13Test one clip on the target deviceBefore converting a whole library for an old TV or player, confirm a single short AVI plays correctly on the actual hardware.

14Convert in batchesQueue many files at once and grab them all in a single ZIP instead of converting and downloading one by one.

15Re-convert to MP4 for the webAVI is not web-friendly. When you need to share online, convert the AVI to MP4 (H.264) for a small, streamable file.

AVI Conversion API & Plans

The browser tool is free and unlimited. For automated, server-side or high-volume AVI conversion, our developer plans add API access, batch jobs and team features. Compare plans on the pricing page.

Free

$0forever

Unlimited in-browser AVI conversions
All input formats (MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM and more)
Xvid, DivX and MJPEG codecs
Batch queue with ZIP download
No watermark, no sign-up

Get started

Popular

Pro

$9per month

Everything in Free
Priority conversion engine
Higher batch limits
Advanced legacy presets
Ad-free experience

Get started

Business

$29per month

Everything in Pro
AVI conversion API access
Team workspace and shared presets
Usage analytics dashboard
Email support

Get started

Enterprise

Customtailored

Everything in Business
Volume and SLA agreements
Single sign-on (SSO)
Dedicated account manager
Custom integration support

Contact sales

Frequently Asked Questions

An AVI converter is a tool that changes a video from a format such as MP4, MOV, MKV or WEBM into AVI (Audio Video Interleave), Microsoft’s classic video container introduced in 1992. AVI stores audio and video in interleaved chunks inside a RIFF file, which makes it extremely compatible with Windows software, legacy hardware and many video editors. This converter runs entirely in your browser using FFmpeg compiled to WebAssembly, so your video is never uploaded to a server.

Troubleshooting Guide

Why this is the best free Video to AVI converter

100% Private

Conversion runs in your browser with WebAssembly FFmpeg. Your video never leaves your device.

No Upload Wait

There is nothing to upload — processing starts the moment you hit convert.

Batch Queue

Convert dozens of videos to AVI in one go and download them all as a single ZIP.

Choose Your Codec

Pick MPEG-4 (Xvid), DivX or MJPEG — or use a one-click legacy preset.

Trim, Crop & Rotate

Edit while you convert: trim, crop, rotate, flip, change speed and adjust volume.

No Watermark

Free, unlimited and watermark-free — keep your video exactly as it should be.

20+ Input Formats

MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV, FLV, TS, VOB, 3GP and many more all convert to AVI.

Legacy-Friendly

Built-in presets target old DVD players, smart TVs, Windows XP/7 and classic editors.

What is AVI?

Why Convert Video to AVI?

Legacy devicesOld DVD players, set-top boxes, early smart TVs and USB media players were built for DivX/Xvid AVI and often cannot decode modern MP4 or MKV.

Legacy editing softwareMany classic Windows video editors import AVI — especially intra-frame MJPEG AVI — far more reliably than newer formats.

DVD authoringXvid and DivX AVI files were the standard intermediate for burning “DivX discs” that compatible DVD players could read.

CCTV & archivalSurveillance systems and archives frequently record or store footage as AVI for its simple, robust, widely understood structure.

Maximum compatibilityWhen you do not know what software the recipient has, an Xvid + MP3 AVI is one of the most broadly playable legacy options.

How to Convert Video to AVI

Converting any video to AVI takes three simple steps and no technical knowledge:

2. Choose your codecKeep the MPEG-4 (Xvid) default for broad compatibility, switch to MJPEG for editing, or open Advanced settings to fine-tune resolution, frame rate, audio codec and trimming.

3. Convert and downloadPress Convert and watch the live progress bar. When it finishes, download your AVI directly, or — for batches — download every file at once in a ZIP.

Best AVI Settings for Every Use Case

Highest qualityMPEG-4 (Xvid) at CRF 16, or MJPEG at maximum quality, original resolution, MP3 320 kbps or PCM audio. Near-lossless but large.

Smallest fileMPEG-4 (Xvid), 720p, CRF 26–28, MP3 128 kbps. The most efficient AVI configuration — avoid MJPEG, which is always large.

EditingMJPEG with PCM audio at original resolution. Every frame is independent, so editors can scrub and cut frame-accurately.

Legacy deviceDivX or Xvid, 480p–576p, standard frame rate, MP3 audio. The classic combination certified by old DVD players and media boxes.

AVI Codecs Explained

AVI is a container, so the codec inside it determines quality, file size and compatibility. Choosing the right codec is the single most important decision when converting to AVI.

AVI and Legacy Compatibility

Convert to AVI in 3 steps

Add your video file

Drag and drop your MP4, MOV, MKV, WEBM, WMV or FLV file onto the converter, or click to browse. You can add multiple files for batch conversion to AVI.

Choose your AVI codec and settings

Keep MPEG-4 (Xvid) for compatibility, choose MJPEG for editing, or open Advanced settings to select resolution, frame rate, audio codec and trimming.

Convert to AVI and download

Press Convert to transcode the video in your browser, then download the finished AVI individually or as a ZIP for batches.

Supported Video Formats

Convert any of these formats to AVI in your browser — drag in a single file or a whole batch.

MP4AVI

MOVAVI

MKVAVI

WEBMAVI

WMVAVI

FLVAVI

MPEGAVI

MPGAVI

M4VAVI

TSAVI

MTSAVI

M2TSAVI

VOBAVI

OGVAVI

3GPAVI

ASFAVI

F4VAVI

RMVBAVI

AVCHDAVI

DVAVI

AVI vs MP4: A Detailed Comparison

AVI and MP4 solve different problems. AVI wins on legacy compatibility and editing; MP4 wins on size and the modern web. Here is how they compare across the factors that matter.

Aspect	AVI	MP4
File size	Large — high overhead and less efficient codecs	Small — efficient modern compression
Compatibility	Excellent on legacy Windows software and old hardware	Excellent on modern devices, browsers and the web
Quality	Good — quality kept by using a larger file	Excellent — high quality at a much smaller size
Compression	Older codecs (Xvid, DivX, MJPEG)	Modern codecs (H.264, H.265, AV1)
Streaming	Poor — no fast-start, not web-friendly	Excellent — fast-start streaming built in
Editing	Excellent with intra-frame MJPEG	Good, but long-GOP codecs are heavier to scrub
Subtitle support	Limited — usually external or burned-in	Supported — soft subtitle tracks possible
Best use case	Legacy playback, editing, DVD authoring, archival	Web, mobile, streaming and social media