HandBrake for Mac

CNET Editors' review

by: CNET staff on August 29, 2012

HandBrake is a free application for converting all types of videos into MPEG-4 files. You might be overwhelmed by the busy interface and numerous options, but once you get started, you'll find that HandBrake offers features that will help any user get up to speed quickly.

HandBrake's interface holds all the tools you need but the wide variety of options can confuse users -- especially beginners. We quickly found that the program's preset options were the quickest and easiest way to convert files. In fact, the moment you find the Presets tab, you'll find the best connection between yourself and HandBrake. Video conversion becomes simple; you just need to select the device you want the video optimized for, and the fun begins.

As soon as you have selected the file you want to optimize for, let's say, your iPad, HandBrake does its job quickly -- depending, of course, on your computer and the file size. The downside is that this great open-source tool will likely have you glued you in front of your computer since you may be tempted to optimize all your existing DVDs for your mobile devices.

Overall, HandBrake worked very well converting files. It may not be the best choice for novice users, but more experienced users will find it to be a handy addition to their Mac toolbox.