How to Convert MTS to MP4 on Windows

MTS vs M2TS vs MP4

MTS and M2TS are two file names for the same MPEG-2 transport stream family. Camcorders often write .MTS files inside PRIVATE/AVCHD/BDMV/STREAM. Disc and folder structures often use .M2TS. The video inside is usually H.264, and the audio is often AC-3 or PCM.

MP4 is a different container. It usually carries H.264 or HEVC video with AAC audio. Phones, browsers, editors and cloud services handle MP4 more consistently than MTS. That is why “convert MTS to MP4” is the common request, even though both can contain H.264.

Common sources of MTS files include Sony Handycam/HDR models, Panasonic HDC camcorders, Canon VIXIA/Legria models and JVC Everio cameras. The exact menu names differ, but the folder layout is usually the same.

Before you start

• Copy the whole AVCHD folder. The STREAM folder has the clips; the other folders have playlists and metadata. Copying the whole folder keeps your options open.
• Check the file sizes. The largest files in STREAM are usually the real recordings. Tiny files are often thumbnails or metadata.
• Keep the original card or folder. Do not format the card until the MP4 outputs are verified and backed up.
• Test one clip first. Audio sync and orientation are easier to check on one file than on a whole card.

Method 1: Raize HD Video Converter (Windows)

The HD converter is the AVCHD-focused product in the AdeptShare line. It accepts MTS/M2TS input and outputs MP4, AVI, WMV, MPEG and other formats.

1. Add the MTS files. Drag the files from BDMV/STREAM into the app, or use the Add button. Add multiple files for a batch.
2. Choose MP4. Select MP4 output. For archive, use 1920×1080 and the source frame rate. For sharing, 1280×720 is usually enough.
3. Set the bitrate. Start at 10–16 Mbps for 1080p archive, or 6–8 Mbps for sharing. Higher bitrate means larger files.
4. Pick an output folder. Use a new folder so the original MTS files are untouched.
5. Convert and check. Run the queue and play the first output. Check audio sync, orientation and duration before converting the rest.

Method 2: HandBrake (free)

HandBrake is a free, open-source transcoder for Windows, macOS and Linux. It is a good choice if you are comfortable with a few settings and want to avoid a paid tool.

1. Open the MTS file. Drag it into HandBrake. If the file is part of an AVCHD folder, open the largest file in STREAM; HandBrake may not read the camera playlist.
2. Select MP4 and H.264. Use an MP4 container and the H.264 encoder. A 1080p preset is a reasonable start.
3. Set quality and audio. Use RF 20–22 for a good balance, and AAC audio at 192–256 kbps. Check the audio track if the source has AC-3.
4. Queue and start. Add each clip to the queue, then start. Check one output before leaving it unattended.

Paid vs free

Both local tools are valid. The paid tool is for users who want a Windows batch workflow without tuning HandBrake.

Quality settings

• Match the source frame rate. MTS footage is often 25, 29.97 or 30 fps. Changing it can cause judder.
• Keep 1080p for archive. Downscale to 720p only for sharing or phone storage.
• Use 10–16 Mbps for 1080p archive. For phone sharing, 6–8 Mbps is usually enough.
• Deinterlace only if needed. If moving subjects show combing, enable deinterlacing. HandBrake’s Decomb/Yadif filters are good options.
• Use AAC 192–256 kbps. If the source is AC-3 5.1, decide whether you need surround or stereo.
• Check split clips. Long recordings may be split into multiple MTS files. Convert all parts; join them later in an editor if needed.

Troubleshooting

MTS file is not recognized

Copy the file from the camera again. Do not rename it. Use MediaInfo to check whether the file is complete and what codec it uses. A partially copied file may fail in every tool.

Audio missing or out of sync

Choose an AAC audio track and use a constant frame rate. If the source has variable frame timing, HandBrake’s constant-framerate option often helps. Test in VLC before converting the whole card.

Output is interlaced

The source may be 1080i. Enable deinterlacing; otherwise fast motion will show horizontal lines.

Only one clip converts

Some tools read the AVCHD playlist as one title. Add the individual MTS files from STREAM instead of the playlist.

Output is too large

Lower the bitrate or resolution. For phone playback, 720p at 4–6 Mbps is often enough. Keep a 1080p master if the footage matters.

FAQ

Related guides

• AVCHD to MP4 — the folder structure and playlist details.
• M2TS to MP4 — the disc-side extension and large files.
• Raize HD Video Converter — the Windows tool used above.