FormatDrop
How-To Guide

How to Convert MKV to AVI

Converting MKV to AVI is typically needed for legacy devices and software that support AVI but not MKV — older media players, some smart TVs from 2010–2015, and legacy video editing tools. Since MKV is the more modern format, this conversion goes backward in capability — AVI doesn't support multiple audio tracks, subtitles, or chapters. Use it only when specifically required.

Open MKV to AVI Converter

Step-by-step instructions

  1. 1

    Convert with FFmpeg

    If the MKV contains DivX, Xvid, or MPEG-4 video with MP3 audio, remux losslessly: `ffmpeg -i input.mkv -c copy output.avi`. If the MKV uses H.264 or H.265 video, re-encode: `ffmpeg -i input.mkv -c:v libxvid -q:v 3 -c:a libmp3lame -q:a 4 output.avi`. Xvid is the most compatible AVI codec for legacy devices.

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  2. 2

    Convert with HandBrake

    Open HandBrake, select the MKV file. In the Output Settings, change the container to AVI. Under Video, choose MPEG-4 or H.264 codec. Click Start Encode. Note: HandBrake's AVI support is limited compared to MP4 — some options may be unavailable in AVI container mode.

  3. 3

    Handle subtitles and extra tracks

    AVI doesn't support embedded subtitles or multiple audio tracks in the same way as MKV. When converting, FFmpeg automatically selects the first video and first audio track. Subtitles are dropped (or burn them in with: `-vf subtitles=input.mkv`). If you need subtitles, burn them into the video or keep the MKV.

  4. 4

    Verify on the target device

    Test the AVI on the specific legacy device or software that required it. AVI compatibility varies — some devices only support certain codecs (MPEG-4, DivX, Xvid) at specific resolutions. If the device still doesn't play the file, check its supported codec list and re-encode with the exact required codec.

Why convert MKV to AVI?

Legacy devices and software that predate MKV support require AVI input. Converting MKV to AVI gives you a file compatible with older hardware while sacrificing the advanced features that made MKV valuable.

Your files never leave your device

FormatDrop runs the conversion engine entirely inside your browser using WebAssembly. No file upload. No server. Nothing stored. You can verify this by opening DevTools → Network tab and watching: zero upload requests.

Frequently asked questions

Why convert MKV to AVI?
Legacy reasons only — older hardware (DVD players with USB, older smart TVs, DVD authoring software) may support AVI but not MKV. For modern devices, MKV is the superior format. If your device plays MP4, that's a better target than AVI — MP4 is more compatible than both.
Can I losslessly convert MKV to AVI?
Only if the MKV contains a codec that AVI supports natively (DivX, Xvid, MPEG-4 video with MP3 audio). If the MKV has H.264 video, AVI technically supports it (technically H.264 can be in AVI) but many devices won't play it. In practice, MKV-to-AVI often requires re-encoding.
What is the best codec for AVI output?
Xvid (MPEG-4 Part 2) is the most compatible AVI codec for legacy devices. Most older DVD players and media streamers support Xvid AVI. H.264 in AVI is less compatible. For modern devices, skip AVI entirely and use MP4 with H.264 — it has better compatibility than any AVI variant.
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