# HandBrake

Free, open-source video transcoder — converts nearly any video format to modern, widely supported codecs.

- **Category:** [Creator Tools](https://notchlist.vercel.app/category/creator-tools/)
- **Price:** Free, open source
- **Open source:** no
- **Official site:** https://handbrake.fr/
- **Available via:** Homebrew, Direct
- **Requirements:** macOS; per-version minimum not published on the current homepage — check the downloads page for the current build’s requirements.
- **Maker:** HandBrake Team (open source, GPL-licensed)

## Kitsmith's take

The default answer to "how do I convert this video file" on Mac, and has been for two decades. HandBrake is GPL-licensed and built by volunteers rather than a company, which means no subscription, no upsell, and no App Store gatekeeping — but also no polished onboarding or customer support beyond community forums. It handles the fundamentals (H.264/H.265/AV1 encoding, batch queues, device presets) well; if you need format coverage beyond video (audio, images, PDFs) or a friendlier UI, Permute is the paid alternative in this same section.

## Features

- **Broad format conversion:** Converts from nearly any source video format into modern, widely supported codecs like H.264, H.265, and AV1.
- **Batch queue:** Queue multiple files or an entire folder for unattended conversion.
- **Device and web presets:** Built-in presets tuned for specific devices and for web publishing, so you don’t have to hand-tune encoder settings.

## FAQ

**Is HandBrake really free?**

Yes — it is open source under the GPL license, with no paid tier, subscription, or in-app purchase.

**Does HandBrake convert audio-only or image files?**

No — it is video-focused. For audio, image, and PDF conversion in one app, see Permute in this same section.


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Hand-verified listing on Kitsmith: https://notchlist.vercel.app/apps/handbrake/