Icon of program: HandBrake

HandBrake for Windows

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Key Details of HandBrake

  • Convert videos with various codecs to make them compatible on all your devices.
  • Last updated on
  • Virus scan status:

    Clean (it’s extremely likely that this software program is clean)

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HandBrake 0/1

Editors’ Review

Download.com staff

HandBrake is a versatile video converter designed for ripping and converting video files to formats compatible with various devices. Its features are straightforward enough for users with basic technical skills to navigate, although advanced users will likely benefit most from its full range of capabilities.  

To get started, users need a video file or DVD, and HandBrake guides them by flagging missing information. While the initial learning curve may involve trial and error, the program ultimately delivers reliable results. For example, it took a couple of tries to successfully convert a 15-minute video, which eventually required around 40 minutes to encode.  

Conversion times depend heavily on file size and system performance. DVD ripping also worked well during our tests, with durations varying based on the length of the DVD. The program's Help button redirects to the developer's website, where guidance ranges from basic instructions to more advanced technical details. That said, HandBrake isn't the most beginner-friendly or efficient converter available. 

Downloading and installing HandBrake is a breeze. The setup process is straightforward, free of unnecessary bundled software, and ensures a hassle-free start. 

When compared to other video converters like Freemake Video Converter or Any Video Converter, HandBrake stands out for its open-source nature and robust features. Freemake offers a polished interface and easier workflows for beginners, while Any Video Converter provides a wider range of preset profiles for devices. HandBrake excels with its customizable options and consistent performance, especially for users who prioritize control over simplicity. 

Bottom Line

HandBrake works seamlessly on both Windows 10 and 11, making it a reliable choice for video enthusiasts who don’t mind spending extra time to achieve high-quality results. 

What’s new in version 1.9.0

  • Fixed ISO 639-2/B language codes not set correctly in MKV (affects Hebrew, Indonesian, Javanese, and Yiddish)
  • Improved support for sources where pixel format cannot be quickly identified, e.g. due to delayed video track start
  • Added logging to identify where hardware support is disabled
  • Miscellaneous bug fixes and improvements
Icon of program: HandBrake

HandBrake for Windows

Download now

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Full Specifications

GENERAL
Release
Latest update
Version
1.9.0
OPERATING SYSTEMS
Platform
Windows
Operating System
  • Windows 7
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 8.1
POPULARITY
Total Downloads
1,738,740
Downloads Last Week
150
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Program available in other languages

Last Updated

User Reviews

3.5/5

155 User Votes

Developer’s Description

By HandBrake
Convert videos with various codecs to make them compatible on all your devices.
HandBrake takes videos you already have and makes new ones that work on your mobile phone, tablet, TV media player, game console, computer, or web browser--nearly anything that supports modern video formats.

HandBrake works with most common video files and formats, including ones created by consumer and professional video cameras, mobile devices such as phones and tablets, game and computer screen recordings, and DVD and Blu-ray discs. HandBrake leverages tools such as Libav, x264, and x265 to create new MP4 or MKV video files from these