Learning how to convert a Bluray disc RIP to MP4 has become a must-do in order to watch high-definition movies on various devices.
You have to have certain software, a set-up, and a bit of tech-savvy to convert it without ruining the quality of the original Blu-ray. We will take you step by step through which software to install, how to set up, and how to keep video quality.
Understanding Blu-ray Rips
Before learning how to convert a Bluray disc RIP to MP4, you should understand what a Blu-ray rip is: It is a digital version of the movie on the Blu-ray disc that you can put in your computer or external hard drive.
Rips from Blu-ray usually come in the form of high-definition files such as .m2ts or .mkv. .mkv is a popular format for Blu-ray rips, but it doesn’t always work on your smartphone, tablet, or some TVs. This is why when we convert these files to MP4, a common format, we get the content on more platforms.
Why Convert Blu-ray Rips to MP4?
MP4 is one of the most universal video formats, available for just about any kind of hardware, from phones and tablets to smart TVs and consoles. Disc conversion Blu-ray rips to MP4 benefits:
- Universal Support: MP4 files play on virtually all media players and gadgets
- Minimal File Size: MP4 is compressed efficiently which makes MP4 save space without losing quality
- Flexible Streaming: Many streaming apps and services have MP4 support, so you can easily play from your devices
Software Required for Conversion
You’ll require two major tools to rip Blu-rays to MP4:
- MakeMKV: This program converts Blu-ray videos into .mkv format so it can be converted
- HandBrake: Open source free .mkv to mp4 converter allowing you to adjust resolution, bitrate, etc.
When you have a .mkv file, you’re ready to rip it into MP4 with HandBrake:
- Open HandBrake: Open HandBrake and open the .mkv file as a source
- Select MP4 as Output: Set the container to MP4
- Configure Options: Change resolution, bitrate, etc (more about this later)
- Convert and Start: Click “Start Encode” to start converting. This may take some time based on file size and speed of your machine
Key Features to Get The Best Quality In MP4
If you want to make your MP4 files look the best, try to focus on these HandBrake settings:
- Setting the Resolution: Set it to the original Blu-ray Resolution (typically 1080p (1920×1080) or 4K (3840×2160))
- Bitrate: The higher the bitrate the better but the bigger the file is. Ideally, you want to be getting 10-20 Mbps for HD
- Frame Rate: Set to the Blu-ray’s original frame rate (movies should play at 24 fps)
Higher settings produce more files with better quality but lower settings, so be sure to set something that works with your storage capacity.
Audio and Subtitle Settings
Audio and subtitle levels are important for watching Blu-ray films.
- Audio Tracks: Choose the main audio track (the best one, normally) and select AAC or AC3 for the output format (compatibility)
- Subtitles: In HandBrake you can add “soft” subtitles (on/off in players) or “burn-in” subtitles (burned into the video). Choose according to your preference, particularly for foreign-language movies
Conversion in Batch for More Than 1 Files
With a lot of Blu-ray rips to convert, Batch Conversion by HandBrake is a great time saver.
- Quota Files: Create several files to the queue of HandBrake
- Set All to New: Set everything to new for every file
- Embrace Batch Encoding: Enable Batch Encoding and let HandBrake process the files by itself
Tips to Create a Perfect Video Quality
Here’s what you should be remembering for your conversion:
- Don’t Over-Compress: Over-compressing compromises the quality of your video; go for a medium compression level to save on detail
- HDR Parameters: If the Blu-ray is HDR-enabled, check that your Parameters are HDR-compatible to keep the colors and contrast intact
Conversion and Reviewing the Imported MP4 File
When your MP4 is done, make it available on different devices for quality and compatibility testing. Check:
- Video Quality: Make sure that the video is clear and doesn’t have compression effects
- Audio Sync: Double-check that the audio syncs to the video
- Accuracy of Subtitles: if subtitles were added, look for timing and format problems
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Some problems you will experience:
- Sound Stuck: If your sound is not on par, lower your framerate or test the sync settings in HandBrake
- Subtitle Bugs: When the subtitles are wrong you can remove the subtitle track or try another format
The Final Words
Now that you know how to convert a Bluray disc RIP to MP4, you can enjoy your movies anytime, anywhere, without a disc or Blu-ray player.
If you follow the instructions above, your high-definition Blu-rays will come to you in a portable, lightweight package that fits almost any computer.
If this article has given you some value make sure you check out How to Convert MP4 into WebP for more sound knowledge!
FAQs
Will rips from Blu-ray to MP4 be converted on Mac?
You can use both MakeMKV and HandBrake on macOS, which behaves the same as Windows.
Video quality when Blu-ray to MP4 conversion?
Sometimes some quality is lost during compression, but when you have it right it will be hardly noticeable.
How Long Does Conversion Take?
Conversions take 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the file and your computer’s CPU.
Should I Rip and Convert Blu-rays?
You can usually copy Blu-rays that you have, for your own use, but you can’t sell or share them.
What is the best bitrate for Blu-ray to MP4 conversion?
You should be aiming for 10-20 Mbps of bitrate for high definition.