Disc to Digital: How to Convert DVDs to MP4 and Save What Matters

DVD Player for Laptop: A Quick Fix or a Frustrating Relic?

Most laptops today don’t come with a DVD player built in. That can be a problem when you stumble across old DVDs with home movies, graduation speeches, or travel videos—and realize there’s no way to play them.

You can buy an external DVD player for laptop for about $30, and plug it into your USB port. But these devices aren’t always reliable with aging or scratched discs. Worse, they can’t convert your video—just play it.

If you’re trying to do more than watch—if you want to save those videos—it’s time to consider converting your disc to digital.

Convert DVD to MP4: Your Best Long-Term Format

MP4 is the most universally accepted digital video format today. It’s compatible with phones, TVs, cloud storage platforms, and editing software.

So how do you convert DVD to MP4? You’ll need three things:

1. A functioning DVD drive

2. The right software (like HandBrake or VLC)

3. Time and patience to load and convert each disc

But even then, the process doesn’t always go smoothly—especially if the disc is unreadable. If your home movie skips or freezes, read our guide on overcoming playback issues to see how to recover what’s left.

DVD Converter Services: Are They Worth It?

Searches for where can I get DVDs copied often lead people to big box stores or services that still put videos onto new discs. But DVDs degrade just like tapes—sometimes faster.

Instead, look for a DVD to digital service that gives you a high-resolution MP4 you can store, share, and enjoy again.

Heirloom offers a smarter way to convert DVDs to digital—uploadable to the cloud with no bulky files, no scratched discs, and no subscription pressure. Plus, if you’ve already tried a service like Legacybox or iMemories and were left with poor-quality results, our team can even rescue what they couldn’t.

Where Can I Get DVDs Copied If I Want to Keep the Original?

Some people want a backup DVD. Others want everything in the cloud. If you’re wondering where can I get DVDs copied with both options, America’s best specialty conversion service will let you choose. At Heirloom, we return your originals, create MP4s, and upload everything to a private cloud where you can download or share anytime.

FAQ: People Also Ask

How do I convert a DVD to MP4?
You can convert a DVD to MP4 using a computer with a DVD drive and software like HandBrake. For fragile or home-recorded discs, professional digitizing services are safer.

Can I convert DVDs to digital without a computer?
Yes. Some standalone DVD converters can transfer directly to USB or external drives, but these often have lower quality. Professional services are the most reliable option.

Is it legal to convert DVDs to MP4?
It’s legal to convert DVDs you personally own for private use. Copying or distributing copyrighted DVDs without permission is illegal.

How long does it take to digitize a DVD?
Converting a full DVD to MP4 typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the method and your computer’s speed. Professional services can handle larger collections faster.

Why should I convert DVDs to digital?
DVDs degrade over time, becoming scratched or unreadable. Converting to MP4 preserves your videos, makes them easier to share, and protects them from physical damage.

Recommended Next Reads

Compact Disc Memories: How to Rescue Photos, Videos & Files
How to Convert DVD to MP4 Without Losing What Matters Most
Mini DVD: How to Save Your Memories Before They Disappear
Picture Disc Memories: What to Know About Photos on DVD
How to Fix a Scratched DVD

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