Convert DAT to MP4 Format – Complete Guide

Overview: DAT files are typically found in Video CDs (VCD) or in the midst of various downloads, and again the data is likely video stored in MPEG-1 format. DAT files were helpful back in the day, but nowadays are difficult to open on smartphones and computers. DAT is limited to surfing devices like laptops, smart phones, editing software etc.

In this case transcoding DAT to a popular file type like MP4 is the ideal choice. and great picture quality, and MP4 is widely accepted for its small size. In this article, we will tell you a complete solution to all about DAT conversion, from why converting DAT file into other formats and how to do some manual solutions as well as the fast and lossless professional way.

Why Convert DAT to MP4?

Before we detail all the methods, let’s grasp why people need this conversion so much?

• The point is, DAT files are generally unsupported on modern devices or media players and MP4 works natively just about anywhere, including Windows, macOS, Android and even smart TVs.

• MP4 runs advanced compression algorithms that minimize the file size without compromising its quality as well as making it easier to store and share.

• DAT files won't be recognized by video editing software such as Premiere Pro, Filmora and iMovie.

• It is immediate and will play on all popular editing systems.

• Also, it is well-adapted for web based use such as YouTube, Facebook and Instagram. DAT files can't be uploaded as-is.

• DAT videos are prone to corruption due to their obsolete structure. MP4 maintains the same, steady quality on any device.

Efficiently Convert DAT to MP4 - Reliable Solution

If you are looking for a professional tool that ensures stable, fast and precise conversion without losing quality, then go with SysTools Video File Converter Software that allows conversion of multiple videos at once and there being no change in original video quality. It’s perfect for consumer users, editors, videographers, and anything else that works with multiple old video formats.

Main Features:

• You can also convert Instagram reels to MP4, or to any other format.

• Retain original video quality as before.

• Batch processing of many videos is supported

• Easy to use, no server side configuration needed.

• Compatible for all Windows systems

• Users are free to select the output site

• Perfect for HD, Full HD and even 4K videos.

Convert DAT to MP4 File - Manual Ways

Here, we’d like to share some handy and free ways to help you convert DAT videos easily:

1. Use VLC Media Player 

VLC is also a tool that plays almost anything although it has conversion means too.

• Open VLC Media Player.

• Go to Media > Convert / Save.

• Hit Add & then select the DAT file.

• Press Convert / Save.

• For Profile, select Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4).

• Customize an output MP4 file folder to save in.

• Click on Start to begin converting.

Pros:

• Free and open source

• Works offline

• Handles many legacy formats

Cons:

• Conversion speed can be slow

• Output may not be at secure level.

• Sometimes doesn't work right along with some DAT files

2. Change DAT to MP4 with Online Method

There are online converters which provide a fast turn around for one off or small DAT files.

• Open any online conversion tool from the site.

• Upload your DAT video.

• Select MP4 in output format.

• Start the conversion.

• Download your converted MP4 file.

Advantages:

• No installation required

• Works on any OS or device

• Simple for small video tasks

Drawbacks:

• Restricted file size supported 

• Requires a good internet connection

• Sensitive content or private videos might not be kept that way

Pro tip: Make sure to use platforms that have HTTPS encryption to prevent your data from being spied on.

3. Choose FFmpeg to Convert DAT to MP4

FFmpeg is a command line tool that professional and tech users use.

• Download and install FFmpeg.

• Open Command Prompt.

• Run the command:

ffmpeg -i input.dat output.mp4

Advantages:

• No installation required

• Works on any OS or device

• Simple for small video tasks

Drawbacks:

• Limited file size upload.

• Requires a good internet connection

• Sensitive/Private Videos may not stay private

Tip: Opt for platforms that are HTTPS encrypted to keep your data secure.

Final Words

DAT files are outdated, they're not compatible with some popular editing systems and players. The ability to convert DAT to MP4 will give you access to edit and upload/share it much easier. For smaller and one-off tasks, manual means such as using VLC, online services or FFmpeg is all that you really need. But all of those are slow, not customizable or don't have good output. For a professional, safe and good quality solution, we have the above mentioned tool. It can batch process and modify DAT files without degrading the quality of the source videos.