File Converter

What File Converter is

File Converter is a free, open-source Windows desktop utility that converts and compresses files from the Windows Explorer context menu. It handles audio, video, image, and document conversions, with PDF listed as the document output format. Batch conversion is available, and users can add, remove, or edit presets directly in file context menus. File Converter 2 supports Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, while a legacy 2017 release supports Windows Vista and 32-bit Windows. Office document conversion requires Microsoft Office to be installed and activated. Version 2.2 adds an AMD AMF hardware-acceleration option for MP4/MKV H.264 conversions. The maker describes the project as GPL v3 licensed, with no advertisements and no data collection. The project began as a personal open-source effort in 2014, and its maintainer is based in Paris. Help is directed to documentation troubleshooting or the bug tracker.

Who it suits

File Converter suits Windows users who want context-menu conversion and compression for common media and document formats. It is also relevant to users who prefer free, open-source software with editable presets and batch processing.

Limits

The free plan is the complete free and open-source Windows utility. Office document conversion stops without Microsoft Office installed and activated; version 2 targets Windows 7 through 11, while Vista and 32-bit support is limited to the legacy 2017 version.

Getting started

1. Download File Converter for Windows
2. Install it on Windows 7, 8, 10, or 11
3. Open Windows Explorer and use the file context menu
4. Add, remove, or edit conversion presets as needed
5. Install and activate Microsoft Office for Office document conversion

Verdict

File Converter offers straightforward, context-menu conversion on supported Windows versions without a purchase or advertising. Office conversion has an external requirement, and older Windows or 32-bit systems need the legacy release.