Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
On a Mac, you can convert most common images and many video files without installing an app. Use Preview when you need control over image formats or a batch conversion, Finder’s Quick Actions for a quick one-file image change or a trim, and QuickTime Player when you need a different video resolution or an audio-only export. The important exception is MP4 video: Apple’s QuickTime Player does not export movie video as MP4. Its video exports are QuickTime Movie (.mov) files encoded with H.264 or HEVC.
The right workflow depends on the source file, the format your destination requires, the desired resolution or size, whether you have one file or many, and whether transparency or other metadata matters. The steps below use macOS tools and identify the limits you will encounter.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Which Mac tool should I use for a conversion?
Choose the tool according to the job rather than trying to force every file through one application.
| Task | Best built-in tool | What it produces | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convert one image and choose a precise format or quality | Preview | HEIC, JPEG, JPEG-2000, OpenEXR, PDF, PNG, or TIFF | You must open the image and export it manually |
| Convert several images in one operation | Preview | The selected images exported from one Preview window | All files must be opened in the same Preview window and selected in its sidebar |
| Quickly change one image’s format or size | Finder Quick Actions | A selected output format and size; Apple’s example is HEIC to JPEG or PNG | Offers fewer controls than Preview |
| Make a video smaller or change its resolution | QuickTime Player | A .mov QuickTime movie using H.264 or HEVC | It does not export movie video as MP4 |
| Save the soundtrack from a video | QuickTime Player | An MPEG-4 audio file with an AAC audio track | Apple’s documented workflow does not cover arbitrary WAV, FLAC, or MP3 conversion |
| Cut the beginning or end of a media file | Finder Quick Actions or QuickTime Player | A trimmed movie or audio file | Finder asks whether to replace the original or create a new file |
Before starting, make a copy if the source is important. Exporting from Preview lets you enter a new name and destination; Finder’s trimming action explicitly offers a choice between replacing the original and creating a new file.
#1 Best Overall
- [Ultra-Lightweight Ear Buds Designed for Small Ears] Each earbud weighs only 3.7g and features a compact, ergonomic in-ear design made especially for small ears. Secure, low-profile, and comfortable for workouts, all-day wear or overnight sleeping.The ultra-slim profile sits flush in your ear with no hard edges poking or rubbing, so you can even sleep on your side without discomfort.
- [Immersive Stereo Sound with TOZO OrigX Technology] TOZO OrigX tuning delivers clear vocals, balanced mids, and natural stereo sound for music, podcasts, and videos.
- [Long Battery Life for Daily Use] Get up to 7 hours of playtime on a single charge, with up to 32 hours total using the charging case—ideal for workdays, commuting, and extended listening sessions.
- [Bluetooth 5.3 & Stable Connection] Bluetooth 5.3 provides fast pairing, stable wireless performance, and reduced dropouts as you move around home or office.
- [Deep Bass with Clear Vocals] High-performance drivers produce punchy bass while keeping vocals clean and detailed for everyday listening.
How do I convert an image such as HEIC to JPG on a Mac?
For a controlled conversion, open the image in Preview and use File > Export. Select JPEG as the format, set the quality if the control is available, choose a new filename and destination, and click Save. The same process converts HEIC files from an iPhone to JPEG, PNG, or another format that Preview lists.
Preview image-conversion steps
- Open the image in Preview. You can double-click it in Finder or open Preview first and choose the file.
- Choose File > Export. Do not use “Save” if you want to keep the original format; Export creates a separately named output.
- Open the Format menu and select HEIC, JPEG, JPEG-2000, OpenEXR, PDF, PNG, or TIFF.
- If you choose JPEG or JPEG-2000, adjust the quality control when it appears. Higher quality generally means a larger file, while a lower setting trades image detail for a smaller file.
- For PDF output, optionally choose a Quartz filter and enable encryption if the document needs those controls.
- Enter the output filename and destination, then click Save.
Preview is the better choice when the recipient specifies an exact format, when you need to tune JPEG quality, or when you need PDF-specific options. A file extension alone does not perform a conversion; the format must be selected in the Export dialog.
Recommended Free Tools
Which image formats can Preview export?
| Format | Typical reason to choose it | Controls documented by Apple |
|---|---|---|
| HEIC | Efficient image storage in Apple-oriented workflows | Format selection in Export |
| JPEG | Broad compatibility for photographs | Adjustable quality when available |
| JPEG-2000 | A separate JPEG-family format required by a particular application | Adjustable quality when available |
| OpenEXR | Workflows that specifically require OpenEXR | Format selection in Export |
| Sharing an image as a document | Optional Quartz filter and encryption | |
| PNG | Graphics or workflows that require PNG | Format selection in Export |
| TIFF | Applications that specify TIFF | Format selection in Export |
If a format is missing from the normal menu, hold the Option key while opening the Format menu. Preview can then reveal specialized or older formats that are not shown by default. Availability can vary with the macOS version and the source image.
How can I convert several images at once?
Preview can batch-export images when they are open in one Preview window. Open the files together, select them in the sidebar, and export the selection instead of repeating the process for each image.
- In Finder, select the image files you want to process and open them with Preview, or open them from Preview so they appear in one window.
- Show the thumbnail sidebar if it is hidden.
- Select the images in the sidebar. Use the normal macOS multi-selection gestures to include every file you want to export.
- Choose File > Export, select the target format, and set any available quality option.
- Choose the destination and save. Confirm the filenames before proceeding if the files have similar names.
Batch conversion is useful for a folder of HEIC photographs that must become JPEG or PNG files. Preview’s batch workflow is format-focused; it does not turn QuickTime’s video-export settings into a batch video converter.
How do I convert one image quickly from Finder?
Finder’s Quick Actions are the fastest built-in route when you do not need Preview’s quality and PDF controls. Select the image, open the contextual menu, and use Quick Actions > More > Convert Image.
Rank #2
- 【IP68 Waterproof Multifunctinal Smart Watch】Torjalph fitness activity tracker smart watch is IP68 waterproof technology ,you can wear it when swimming,handwashing,it's rain-proof which means that you perform multiple exercise modes outside without worrying about sweat or rain corroding your fitness smart watch,and this watch equipped with a 230 mAh large capacity battery magnetic charging ,and this sports activity tracker watch can be used 5-7 days If fully charged.
- 【Larger 1.83'' Full Screen Watch & Multi-dial Selection】1.83 inch full HD color touch screen smart watch for men / women provides excellent 240*284 resolution image quality ,This Bluetooth smart watch offers a better touch experience and remarkable immersion and ,more than 200 watch faces for you to choose from App"Da Fit ", you can change the dial style according to your mood to wear keeping the world on your wrist
- 【Accurate Activity Tracker Smart Watch 】sports watch activity tracker uses sweat and dust resistant breathable silicone strap, our Fitness Tracker Smart Watch for Android iOS Phones supports 12 sports modes,walking,running,bicycle,swimming,badminton,basketball,football,rope skipping. This bluetooth calls smart watch for men women is lightweight and stylish, bringing more convenient and relaxing sports experience while also providing more protection.
- 【Your 24 Hour Personal Daily Health Monitor】Fitness watch for women men full touch screen IP67 waterproof bluetooth smartwatch for Android iOS Phones with heart rate blood pressure monitor multifunction Andriod smart watch with steps counter sleep monitor sports fitness watch, monitoring blood oxygen saturation allows you to understand your physical condition in real time to track fitness progress ,to know your health status in time.
- 【More Functions Bluetooth Call Smart Watch】This fitness activity smart watch full screen for iPhone and Android phones includes a bunch of new features including:The bluetooth smart watch can hang up the phone, receive and display WhatsAPP /Text /Facebook /Twitter /Messenger reminder.Support sedentary reminder, alarm clock, stopwatch, timer,weather information,music control, remote camera control compatible with Android 5.0 and above or iOS 9.0 and above smartphones.
- In Finder, select the image file.
- Control-click the selection.
- Choose Quick Actions, then More > Convert Image.
- Choose the output format and the requested size.
- Confirm the conversion and locate the new file in Finder.
Apple gives converting an iPhone .heic image to .jpeg or .png as an example. This route is convenient for a single file or for reducing dimensions, but Preview is preferable when you need to adjust JPEG quality, apply a PDF Quartz filter, encrypt a PDF, or reveal less-common formats.
How do I make a video smaller on a Mac?
Open the video in QuickTime Player and choose File > Export As. Select 4K, 1080p, 720p, or 480p; QuickTime creates a QuickTime movie with a .mov extension. Lowering the export resolution is the built-in way to target a smaller video, although the final data rate and file size also depend on the source.
QuickTime video-export steps
- Double-click the movie in Finder, or open QuickTime Player and choose File > Open File.
- Choose File > Export As.
- Select the resolution that matches the destination: 4K, 1080p, 720p, or 480p. A choice may be unavailable when the source cannot supply that resolution.
- For 4K or 1080p exports, choose Smaller File Size for HEVC or Greater Compatibility for H.264 when those options are presented.
- Choose a filename and destination, then save the exported movie.
| QuickTime setting | Maximum frame size supplied by Apple | Codec choice described by Apple |
|---|---|---|
| 4K | Up to 3840 × 2160 | Smaller File Size selects HEVC; Greater Compatibility selects H.264 |
| 1080p | Up to 1920 × 1080 | Smaller File Size selects HEVC; Greater Compatibility selects H.264 |
| 720p | Up to 1280 × 720 | Codec and data rate depend on the export and source |
| 480p | Up to 640 × 480 | Codec and data rate depend on the export and source |
“Up to” matters: these are maximum dimensions for Apple’s export settings, not a promise that every source will be enlarged to that size. A low-resolution source cannot gain detail by selecting 4K, and the exported data rate remains dependent on the original movie.
Should I choose HEVC or H.264?
Choose HEVC when reducing file size is the priority and the receiving device or service supports it. Choose H.264 when compatibility with older or broader playback environments matters more. In QuickTime’s 4K and 1080p choices, Apple labels those trade-offs Smaller File Size (HEVC) and Greater Compatibility (H.264).
If the movie contains an alpha channel, QuickTime may display a Preserve Transparency checkbox when HEVC is selected. Enable it only when the transparent areas are required by the destination; otherwise, verify the exported file in the application that will use it.
Can I turn a video into an audio file without installing software?
Yes. QuickTime Player’s Audio Only export extracts the soundtrack as an MPEG-4 audio file with an AAC audio track. It is a built-in way to create an audio file from a movie, but it is not a general-purpose converter for every audio format.
Rank #3
- [Low Noise High Fidelity] New bee guitar cord with 22AWG oxygen-free-copper center conductors provides enhanced signal transfer, the PVC insulation material and the high-density stranded copper double shield provide noise rejection for quiet operation
- [Ideal for Choice] New bee 1/4 straight and right angle metal connectors, ensures a secure connection in any instrument, pedal, or amp jack. L shape great fro on stage guitar stands
- [Wide Compatible] Suitable for mixer, power amplifier, microphone, effector, decoder, equalizer, electoronic organ, electric guitar, electric bass and other electronic equipments. Widely used in the installation of smart home, karaoke speaker, professional stage audio, etc
- [Easy Disassemble] Making incidental repairs quick and easy! Very nice, flexible cable
- [Dont Hesite to Order] 24 hours customer services and professional technology team are standing by
- Open the movie in QuickTime Player.
- Choose File > Export As > Audio Only.
- Choose the destination and filename.
- Save the file. The result is an MPEG-4 audio file containing AAC audio.
Apple’s documented QuickTime workflow does not establish direct exports to arbitrary WAV, FLAC, or MP3 files. If a service specifically requires one of those formats, QuickTime’s Audio Only command alone does not satisfy that requirement; you would need a separately verified conversion method.
How do I trim an audio or video file on a Mac?
Finder Quick Actions can trim both movie and audio files. After the preview, choose whether to replace the original or create a new file.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches- Select the movie or audio file in Finder and Control-click it.
- Choose Quick Actions > Trim.
- Preview the media and set the start and end points.
- Choose Replace to overwrite the source or choose the option to create a new file.
You can also open the file in QuickTime Player through File > Open File and use its trimming controls before exporting. Trimming changes duration; it is separate from choosing a lower video resolution or extracting an audio-only file.
Why can’t QuickTime export my video as MP4?
Because QuickTime Player does not export movies as MP4 videos. Apple explicitly documents its movie export as a QuickTime movie (.mov) using H.264 or HEVC, even when the selected resolution or codec would otherwise be associated with MP4 files.
If a website, phone, editor, or upload form demands MP4 specifically, changing the filename extension from .mov to .mp4 is not a real container conversion and can make the file fail validation or playback. QuickTime’s built-in export cannot meet that MP4-only requirement; use a conversion application or service that explicitly supports MP4 and verify its codec and privacy terms before uploading media.
How should I choose a conversion workflow?
Answer these questions before exporting so the result works on the first try.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #4
- Digital Family Calendar: BSIMB digital calendar wall touch screen puts an end to your chaotic life. Designed for busy families, the digital calendar keeps you organised and in step with your family. Assign different colours and tasks to each family member to make family scheduling easier and more intuitive.
- Easy Setup and Auto-Sync: Plug in, connect to WLAN and auto-syn your electric calendar in minutes. Digital wall calendar compatible with Google calendar, iCloud calendar, Outlook calendar, Cozi calendar and Yahoo calendar. Add events directly on the device or through the ecalendar app. Electronic calendar stays current whether you're at work or traveling—no manual updates needed.
- All-In-One Home Assistant: Smart calendar builds habits and encourage independence with personalised chores. Display daily meal plan to reduce the daily ‘What's for dinner?’ stress. To-do lists keep track of everything you want. Turning chores into valuable achievements with stars and rewards, making life easier and more enjoyable.
- Manage Anytime Anywhere: BSIMB electronic calendar for family stay connected with the powerful ecalendar app. Access and manage your digital wall calendar anytime, anywhere with free features like stars & rewards, photo screensaver, chore charts, meals plans, to-do lists etc. Electronic planner paid features like Magic Import tailor advanced tools for users with special needs.
- Stay in Touch with Loved Ones: Share photos or videos from your phone to electronic wall calendar with app, instantly update your life moment, and keep in touch with your family, especially those who are far away; you can also surprise your smart calendar digital wall by sending him a wish card; it's also great for keeping tech-illiterate elders in touch with the youngsters.
- What is the source? HEIC photographs, ordinary raster images, movies, and audio files expose different options.
- What exact format does the destination accept? JPEG, PNG, HEIC, and TIFF are not interchangeable, and a
.movfile is not an MP4 video. - Is the target a smaller file or a smaller frame? Finder’s Convert Image action offers a size choice; QuickTime’s video settings are resolution choices with source-dependent data rates.
- Does compatibility outweigh compression? For 4K and 1080p QuickTime exports, H.264 is labeled Greater Compatibility and HEVC is labeled Smaller File Size.
- Are you processing one file or many? Use Finder for a quick single-image action and Preview for a group of images in one window.
- Must transparency or other metadata survive? Check the receiving application’s requirements. QuickTime exposes Preserve Transparency for some HEVC exports when the source has an alpha channel.
What problems commonly occur during conversion?
The format I need is not in Preview
Hold the Option key while opening Preview’s Format menu. Apple says this reveals specialized or older formats. If the format still does not appear, Preview does not document it as an available export for that source.
The exported video is still too large
Export again at a lower QuickTime resolution, such as 720p or 480p, if the destination permits it. For 4K or 1080p, select Smaller File Size to use HEVC; confirm that the receiving system supports HEVC before sending the file.
The recipient cannot play the video
Export the 4K or 1080p version with Greater Compatibility, which selects H.264. If the recipient specifically requests MP4, QuickTime cannot create that video container and renaming the extension will not solve the problem.
The image looks different after export
For JPEG or JPEG-2000, revisit the quality control in Preview and export again. If the recipient needs transparency, confirm that the target format and application support it before choosing a lossy or non-transparent format.
I converted the file but cannot find the result
Preview asks for a filename and destination during Export, while QuickTime does the same for movie and Audio Only exports. Return to the destination you selected and search for the new filename rather than the original extension.
What can these built-in tools and what can they not do?
Preview covers the documented image formats and can process multiple images from one window. Finder adds a fast format-and-size action for images and a trim action for audio and video. QuickTime handles resolution-based movie exports, codec selection for key resolutions, trimming, and AAC audio extraction.
The boundaries are just as important. QuickTime’s movie output is .mov, not MP4; its Audio Only command produces AAC in an MPEG-4 audio file rather than a menu of WAV, FLAC, and MP3 targets. When the destination specification falls outside those documented choices, treat it as a requirement for a different, explicitly compatible converter rather than assuming a filename change or an unlisted export option will work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will converting a HEIC image delete the original photo?
Preview’s Export workflow asks for a new filename and destination, so you can keep the HEIC source and write a separate JPEG or PNG. Finder’s image conversion should be checked in the destination folder after it runs; do not remove the source until you have opened the converted copy successfully.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Can I convert a video and keep its transparent background?
QuickTime may show a Preserve Transparency checkbox for HEVC exports when the movie has an alpha channel. The checkbox is conditional, so verify that it appears and test the exported file in the application that will composite it.
What audio format does QuickTime create from a movie?
The Audio Only command creates an MPEG-4 audio file with an AAC track. It is not documented as a direct WAV, FLAC, or MP3 exporter.
Why is my 4K export smaller but not compatible with an older device?
QuickTime’s Smaller File Size option uses HEVC for 4K and 1080p exports. Older hardware or software may not decode HEVC; export with Greater Compatibility to select H.264 instead, accepting a potentially larger file.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
