More often than not, QuickTime successfully plays MP4 files. After all, MP4 frequently contains MPEG-4, which is based on the QuickTime format. But there’s a catch. MP4 is a complex container format, so it may contain a number of different video and audio codecs. For example, while QuickTime can play MP4 media that uses the MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs, it may struggle with others. That’s why QuickTime and MP4 don’t always go hand in hand. Trying to play an MP4 file encoded with an incompatible codec will result in an error message in QuickTime and failure to play video and/or audio.
When your MP4 won’t play on Mac, it can be frustrating. However, there are several easy solutions you can use to resolve the issue. You can find more information about them below and pick the one that suits your needs.
If you’re wondering how to play MP4 on a Mac when QuickTime fails, look no further. Elmedia Player is an ideal all-around MP4 player for Mac because it supports an extensive number of file formats and boasts various additional features. Elmedia can play MP4, AVI, DIVX, FLV, SWF, WMV, MKV, MOV, MP3, DAT, among others. No further codecs or plug-ins required. It allows you to adjust playback aspects to your liking, such as video speed and appearance, audio settings, and subtitle support.
Elmedia’s PRO version at just $19.95 delivers an even wider range of functionalities, e.g. playback enhancements, making screenshots, etc. Also, it will allow you to download YouTube videos and stream wirelessly to Smart TVs, Chromecast, and DLNA-enabled devices.
Playing MP4 using Elmedia Player is as easy as one-two-three. The app is very intuitive and doesn’t need a complex setup. Just do as follows:
1. Download the Elmedia Player app and install it on your Mac.
2. Run the player. Then, simply add videos to your in-app library by following either of these steps:
3. Sit back and enjoy!
If QuickTime won’t play MP4’s for you, you can opt to convert them to another readable format. That way, you can continue using QuickTime with MP4 without switching to a different video player.
One of the most practical and easy-to-use conversion tools out there is Movavi Video Converter for macOS. It can convert MP4, AVI, MOV, FLV files to MPEG-4 and more. What’s more, it has additional features allowing you to compress videos, adjust volume, trim and rotate clips, etc.
If you’d like to skip installing new software on your Mac or just need a one-off file conversion, you can pick an online video converter.
For a hassle-free converter, visit https://convert-video-online.com.
Follow these steps:
Hope you enjoyed the tips above and that your QuickTime vs. MP4 saga has come to an end!
