How to change Codecs used on a Video File

This post explains how to convert a video file to use different codecs.

This can be useful, for example, where a given video player is unable to play a video with a specific codes.

How to check which Codecs are used on a video file

Open video file with VLC media player, go to menu bar > “Tools” > “Codec Information”.

The codec information will be displayed in a dialog.

Usually stream 1 refers to video codec while stream 2 refers to audio codec.

How to change Codecs used on a video file

Actually, codecs used on a video cannot be “changed”, but instead we can create a new file with a different codec.

Open video file with VLC media player, go to menu bar > “Convert / Save…” > Codec Information.

On tab “File”, click on “Add” and select file to be converted to add it to list.

Click on “Convert / Save” button.

Under the “Profile” field, select the desired codec profile (e.g. H.264 + MP3 (MP4))

Click on “Browse” on “Destination file” field.

Choose location for output file . Default container is .mp4, but you may change it.

Click on “Start”.

Click on “Play” and wait until it is completed.

External references

•  ”Find out Video Resolution and Frame Rate using VLC“; vlchelp.com
• “How To Change Video Codec And Audio Codec With VLC Media Player?“; Brighten