How to open a .mp4 file
Quick, free ways to open MP4 on any system.
A .mp4 file is a MPEG-4 Part 14. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads MP4 yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.
Open a .mp4 file step by step
- Confirm the file really is a .mp4. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
- On Windows, open it with Media Player or VLC.
- On Mac, use QuickTime or VLC.
- On Linux, try VLC or mpv.
- Still stuck? Convert the .mp4 to MOV, which opens more widely.
Best apps to open .mp4 files
Windows
- Media Player
- VLC
- any browser
macOS
- QuickTime
- VLC
- Safari
Linux
- VLC
- mpv
- Firefox
Web
- Every modern browser
!
Before you open it: Safe. MP4 is media data, though as always only play files from trusted sources.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open my .mp4 file?
Almost always because no installed app understands MP4. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.
Why won't my MP4 play?
The container is MP4 but the codec inside may be one your player lacks, such as H.265. Install VLC, which plays almost anything, or convert the file.
How do I get just the audio from an MP4?
Extract the audio track to MP3 or M4A using a converter. The video is discarded and you keep the sound.