What is the best free online video format converter?

An online video converter is a web-based tool that allows users to change the format of their video files without needing to install any software on their devices. These converters support a variety of input and output formats, enabling users to convert videos to formats compatible with different devices, platforms, or specific requirements.

Typically, the process involves uploading the original video file to the converter's website, selecting the desired output format, and then initiating the conversion. Once the process is complete, users can download the converted video directly from the site. This convenience makes online video converters particularly appealing for quick, one-time conversions or for users who prefer not to manage additional software on their computers.

The way online video format converters work is relatively straightforward. When a user uploads a video file to the converter's server, the platform utilizes its processing capabilities to transcode the video from the original format to the selected target format. This involves decoding the original video, re-encoding it in the new format, and often compressing the file to reduce its size. 

The entire conversion process is handled on the converter's servers, meaning that the user's device is only used for uploading the original file and downloading the converted version. This server-based processing allows users with less powerful hardware to perform conversions that might be resource-intensive if done locally on their devices.