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Convert WMV to MKV

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Verified by Adam B.· reviewed by FE Editorial ·updated Jun 21, 2026
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Is it possible to convert WMV to MKV?
Yes - WMV converts to MKV.

You can do it right here with our free converter - no sign-up, and your file is deleted right after.

Upload your WMV above and get an MKV back in seconds - that is the fastest path. For offline work, HandBrake or ffmpeg handle any WMV file. One caveat: re-encoding causes minor quality loss, so use a high-quality preset if the source matters.

Also to MKV: USM · TP · MPEG4

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Tested on macOS, Windows & Linux
Last verified Sep 2026

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Why convert WMV to MKV?

MKV is an open container that holds multiple audio tracks, subtitles, and chapters in a single file - something WMV cannot match. WMV is a Windows-centric format from 1999 with poor compatibility on Linux, macOS, and most smart TVs, while .MKV plays natively on Kodi, Plex, VLC, and most modern hardware players. Converting preserves your video while giving it far broader long-term compatibility.

How to convert WMV to MKV

HandBrake FREE

Open your .wmv in HandBrake, set the container to MKV, pick an H.264 preset, and click Start Encode.

Freemake Video Converter FREE

Import your .wmv, select .mkv as the output format, and click Convert - no account needed.

MKVToolNix - remux only OPEN-SOURCE

Add your .wmv as a source and click Start Multiplexing to wrap it in .mkv without re-encoding. Note that VC-1 video stays inside and some players may not support it.

Command line - ffmpeg CLI

Run ffmpeg -i input.wmv -codec:v libx264 -codec:a aac output.mkv to re-encode to H.264/AAC inside MKV.

Programs that convert WMV

Miro Video Converter
HandBrake
Any Video Converter FREE
Aimersoft iTransfer for Windows
ConvertXtoDVD
Free Studio
Freemake Video Converter
HDConvertToX

About these formats

.WMV Windows Media Video

A WMV file is a Windows Media Video file from Microsoft, introduced in 1999. On Windows it plays in the built-in Media Player with no setup. On Mac, Linux, Android or iOS, use the free VLC…

Open .WMV details →
.MKV Matroska Video

An MKV file is a Matroska multimedia container that holds video, multiple audio tracks, subtitles and chapters in one file. Open it for free with VLC media player, or on Windows 11 with the…

Open .MKV details →

Quality & what to watch

  • DRM-protected .wmv files cannot be converted - standard tools will fail or produce a blank output.
  • Re-encoding always involves minor quality loss; use ffmpeg's -crf 18 flag or HandBrake's High Quality preset to keep it minimal.
  • Remuxing with MKVToolNix skips re-encoding but leaves VC-1 video inside the .mkv, which some TVs and older editors do not support.

Frequently asked questions

Can I convert a DRM-protected WMV file?
No - DRM-protected .wmv files are encrypted and standard tools cannot decode them. You need an authorised player and a valid licence.
Will converting WMV to MKV reduce quality?
Re-encoding always causes some quality loss. Use ffmpeg with -crf 18 or HandBrake's High Quality preset to keep the loss minimal.
Is MKV better than MP4 for storing this video?
Choose .mkv when you need multiple audio tracks, subtitles, or chapters, or plan to use Kodi or Plex. For sharing or phone playback, .mp4 has wider compatibility.
How long does WMV to MKV conversion take?
A one-hour .wmv typically takes 5-20 minutes on a modern CPU; enabling GPU encoding (NVENC or QuickSync) in HandBrake is noticeably faster.