Published on Apr 07, 2025 5 min read

How to Easily Convert DAT Files to MP4: Top 3 Converters

Working with DAT files in 2025 is like trying to play a VHS on a smart TV—outdated and often incompatible with modern devices. DAT files still appear, mainly from old VCDs, surveillance systems, or archived videos. Converting them into MP4 format is key, but not all converters are reliable. After testing many tools, I've narrowed it down to 3 solid options.

These converters aren't overloaded with unnecessary features, and they don't flood you with ads or watermark your videos. They simply get the job done—turning DAT into MP4 quickly and without losing quality. Here's a closer look at the top 3 choices.

WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe

This converter has been around for a while, but it hasn’t fallen behind. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe remains one of the most reliable tools for working with awkward, rarely used formats like DAT. It handles large files well, respects your original quality settings, and gives you a lot of flexibility with output formats.

The interface is stripped-down, which makes it easy for someone who just wants the job done. You load your DAT file, select MP4 as the target format, adjust a few settings if you want (bitrate, resolution, frame rate), and hit convert. That’s it. The process is fast, even on mid-range systems, because the software supports GPU acceleration. That’s important if you're converting bulky VCD footage or multiple files at once.

One of the standout features here is how stable it is. It doesn’t crash midway through a conversion, even with older or corrupted DAT files. It also supports trimming, cropping, and basic editing tools, which are helpful if you need to cut down a long surveillance recording or crop out black bars from a VCD rip.

WinX doesn’t overload you with features, but it gives you what you need. It doesn’t demand an internet connection to function, doesn’t nag you with pop-ups, and doesn’t embed ads or watermarks in the final product. That’s rare. For those looking to convert DAT to MP4 consistently without frustration, this is the most balanced choice on the list.

HandBrake

HandBrake is open-source, free, and as dependable as an old screwdriver in a toolbox. It might not officially advertise DAT file support, but it handles them if they're not encrypted and are encoded with common codecs. You might need to rename the file extension to .mpg or .avi first, but once loaded, HandBrake will recognize and convert them just like any other video file.

The interface isn’t as friendly to beginners—it’s full of toggles and settings that look intimidating. But you don’t have to touch any of that. You can select the MP4 output preset, load the video, and let it work. The conversion speed is solid, and it handles resolution changes, codec tweaks, and audio pass-through without getting tripped up.

Where HandBrake really shines is its customization. If you want to tweak compression rates, control file size, or convert multiple DAT files in bulk, it’s a powerhouse. You can queue dozens of files and let it run overnight. And being open-source means there’s a big community behind it. If you hit a wall with a weird DAT file, chances are someone else has seen it and found a fix.

It's worth noting that while HandBrake doesn't natively work with DRM-protected or proprietary DAT formats (like those from some CCTV systems), it works surprisingly well for standard DAT videos extracted from VCDs or MPEG formats. It gives you full control without taking over your system or asking for a subscription.

Movavi Video Converter

Movavi’s appeal is simplicity. You don't need a manual. Drag your DAT file into the converter, select MP4 from the format list, and hit the start button. That's it. Within minutes, you get a fully converted MP4 file that plays on anything—your phone, tablet, or desktop.

The converter automatically detects the properties of the original DAT file and matches the best settings for the MP4 output. If you want to go deeper, you can change the resolution, adjust audio settings, or compress the file to a smaller size. It even has a nice preview function, so you can check your file before committing to the full conversion.

Movavi gracefully handles strange file types. It supports a wide range of older formats, which makes it a good fallback when other converters choke. It's also updated regularly, so compatibility issues are rare. More importantly, it doesn't mess with your audio sync or strip out subtitles—two common headaches when converting old DAT files.

While it’s not free, Movavi offers a free trial with all the core features unlocked. And it doesn't slap watermarks on your converted files as many other trialware tools do. If you're doing one-off conversions or working with unfamiliar file types regularly, the peace of mind it gives is worth the small price tag.

Movavi also maintains the overall quality of the original footage. If you're converting archival material, family videos, or surveillance clips, keeping the clarity intact is often more important than flashy UI features. That’s where this converter punches above its weight.

Conclusion

Converting DAT files to MP4 doesn't have to be a complicated task. With the right tools, you can easily turn your outdated files into a format compatible with modern devices and platforms. WinX HD Video Converter Deluxe, HandBrake, and Movavi Video Converter each offer unique features suited to different needs, whether you're looking for speed, customization, or ease of use. These top converters provide reliable results, ensuring your files maintain their quality throughout the conversion process. By choosing the right tool, you can effortlessly unlock the potential of your DAT files and enjoy them in the widely-used MP4 format.