8 Methods to Convert Video from 4K to 1080P on Windows/Mac/Online

Converting 4K videos to 1080p is a great way to reduce file size, improve compatibility, and enhance streaming performance. Using a 4K to 1080p converter, you can downscale video resolution while maintaining good visual quality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods and tools to convert 4K to 1080p on both Windows and Mac, as well as online platforms. Whether you're looking for faster uploads or more efficient storage, we’ve got the right solution. Let’s dive into the top converters to simplify your video conversion process.

Part 1: Reasons for Downscaling 4K Video to 1080P

Downscaling 4K videos to 1080p offers several practical benefits for both casual and professional users. Whether it's saving storage space or ensuring smoother playback, choosing to convert from 4K to 1080p makes your videos more accessible and efficient for various platforms and devices.

1. Storage savings: Downscaling 4K to 1080p reduces file size, freeing up storage space for other files. This is ideal for managing large video libraries or limited storage devices.

2. Faster upload and streaming: Smaller 1080p files upload and stream faster, even on slower internet connections. This improves sharing speed and reduces buffering during playback.

3. Compatibility: 1080p is more widely supported across devices, ensuring better playback compatibility. Downscaling makes your videos accessible on older devices and media players.

4. Easier editing: Converting to 1080p makes video editing smoother and faster, requiring less processing power. This is especially helpful on older computers or less powerful software.

5. Faster rendering time: Rendering 1080p videos takes less time than 4K, speeding up project completion. Downscaling helps you meet deadlines faster with reduced processing times.

6. Smaller bandwidth requirements: 1080p videos need less bandwidth, ensuring smoother streaming and easier sharing. This is ideal for viewers on slower or limited data connections.

7. Better for social media: Social media platforms compress 4K videos, so converting to 1080p ensures quality retention. This results in faster uploads and more efficient sharing.

Part 2: Best 4 Methods to Convert 4K to 1080P Easily with Windows Software

Method 1: UniConverter

UniConverter is a powerful tool that can convert 4K to 1080p while maintaining high-quality output. Wondershare UniConverter 16 makes converting 4K videos to 1080P faster and smoother, with a 20% boost in speed and lossless quality retention. Supporting 8K HD formats (MOV, MKV, WEBM, and AVI), it ensures sharp visuals during downscaling. The expanded format compatibility covers the latest devices like iPhone 16, Samsung, and popular cameras like GoPro and DJI, making UniConverter V16 a versatile tool for creating high-quality 1080P videos.

Key Features:

1. Batch conversion for multiple files: UniConverter allows you to convert multiple 4K videos to 1080p simultaneously, saving time when managing large video collections. 

2. 20% Faster Conversion Speed: Wondershare UniConverter 16 offers a significant 20% increase in conversion speed, allowing for quicker processing of high-resolution files and large media projects without compromising performance.

3. Lossless 8K HD Video Conversion: The latest version supports lossless conversion of 8K HD video in MOV, MKV, and WEBM formats. With an updated AVI encoder, UniConverter 16 preserves top-notch quality, making it ideal for high-definition content.

4. Multi-format Conversion Across Media Types: UniConverter 16 enables simultaneous conversion of images, audio, and video files, streamlining workflows and providing versatility for diverse media requirements.

5. Enhanced Device and Camera Compatibility: UniConverter 16 now supports formats for the latest devices, including iPhone 16, Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi, as well as mainstream cameras like GoPro and DJI. It also includes new editing formats like iFrame and Cineform, making it an ideal tool for creators and editors alike.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with UniConverter

Step 1: Add 4K Video File
Open UniConverter and click the “Add Files” button to import your 4K video. You can also drag and drop the file directly into the program.

Step 2: Select 1080P as Output Resolution
Go to the “Output Format” section at the bottom of the interface, choose the “Video” tab, select your preferred format (e.g., MP4), and set the resolution to 1080p.

Step 3: Start the Conversion
Click the “Convert” button to begin converting your 4K video to 1080p. UniConverter will display the progress, and once completed, you can access the file in the output folder.

Method 2: Freemake Video Converter

Freemake Video Converter is an easy-to-use 4K to 1080p converter, ideal for beginners with minimal setup required. It features a drag-and-drop interface and basic editing tools like trimming and cutting. While the free version includes a watermark, upgrading to the premium version removes it. It's a straightforward solution for quick video conversions.

Key Features:

1. Supports 4K to 1080p conversions: Easily downscale 4K videos to 1080p for smoother playback and smaller file sizes, with minimal quality loss.

2. Simple drag-and-drop interface: Intuitive interface allows for quick video conversions, perfect for beginners and fast tasks.

3. Basic video editing: Offers trimming and cutting tools for light edits before converting, ideal for quick adjustments.

4. Free with watermark: The free version adds a watermark, which can be removed by upgrading to the premium version.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with Freemake Video Converter

Step 1: Add the 4K file
Open Freemake Video Converter and click "Video" to import your 4K file, or simply drag and drop it into the program. This makes it easy to load files for conversion.

Step 2: Select 1080p as output resolution
Choose your preferred format like MP4, then set the output resolution to 1080p in the settings. This ensures the video is converted to your desired resolution.

Step 3: Start the conversion
Click the “Convert” button to begin the 4K to 1080p conversion. The progress bar will show how much of the process is complete, allowing you to track the conversion in real-time.

Method 3: VideoProc

VideoProc is an excellent 4K video to 1080p converter designed for users needing fast, efficient processing. With full GPU acceleration, it quickly converts large 4K files to 1080p, making it perfect for those handling high-resolution videos regularly. VideoProc also supports batch conversion, allowing users to process multiple videos simultaneously. Its simple interface and basic editing features make it user-friendly for both beginners and professionals.

Key Features:

1. Full GPU acceleration: Speeds up the conversion process, making it ideal for large 4K video files. It reduces the time needed for converting even the largest videos.

2. Supports multiple resolutions: Easily converts videos between 4K, 1080p, and other resolutions, offering versatility for different projects.

3. Simple editing features: Includes basic editing tools like trimming and cropping, allowing you to adjust your videos before conversion.

4. Batch conversion: Converts multiple files at once, making it a time-saver for large projects that involve numerous videos.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with VideoProc

Step 1: Add your 4K file
Launch VideoProc, click "Video" to open the file browser, then drag and drop your 4K video into the program for easy access to conversion tools.

Step 2: Select 1080p as output
Choose your desired output format, such as MP4, and set the resolution to 1080p under the output settings. This ensures your video is properly downscaled while retaining quality.

Step 3: Start conversion
Click "Run" to initiate the conversion. The progress bar will display the status of the conversion as your 4K video is processed to 1080p.

Method 4: Movavi Video Converter

Movavi Video Converter is an ideal tool to convert 4K video to 1080p, offering high-quality results with fast processing. Its built-in editing tools make it easy to trim and adjust videos before conversion, ensuring a polished final product. With hardware acceleration, Movavi is a reliable choice for those looking for efficiency without sacrificing video quality.

Key Features:

1. Supports multiple resolutions: Easily converts between 4K, 1080p, and other resolutions, offering flexibility for use across various devices and platforms.

2. High-quality output: Maintains great video quality when downscaling from 4K to 1080p, ensuring minimal loss in detail or resolution.

3. Basic editing tools: Includes trimming and cropping options, allowing for quick and easy video adjustments before conversion.

4. Fast conversion with hardware acceleration: Leverages GPU acceleration for faster conversion times, especially helpful when processing large 4K files.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with Movavi Video Converter

Step 1: Add your 4K file
Open Movavi, click "Add Media," and select your 4K video file for conversion. This step ensures the file is ready for processing.

Step 2: Select 1080p as output
Choose MP4 or another preferred format, then set the resolution to 1080p under the output settings to downscale the video.

Step 3: Start the conversion
Click "Convert" to initiate the conversion, and monitor the progress bar as your 4K video is transformed into 1080p.

Part 3: Best 2 Methods to Convert 4K to 1080p Seamlessly on Macs

Way 1: HandBrake

HandBrake is a powerful open-source 4K 1080p converter that allows users to seamlessly downscale 4K videos to 1080p on Macs. Its customizable output settings make it ideal for users who need control over frame rate, bitrate, and resolution. With support for a variety of formats like MP4 and MKV, it’s a versatile tool for converting large video files efficiently.

Key Features:

1. Free and open-source: HandBrake is completely free to use with no hidden costs, making it accessible for everyone, from casual users to professionals needing a robust video conversion tool.

2. Customizable output settings: Offers detailed control over output settings, allowing you to adjust frame rate, bitrate, and resolution to meet your specific requirements for video quality and file size.

3. Supports many formats: Works seamlessly with popular formats like MP4, MKV, and AVI, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and media players.

4. Batch processing: Allows you to convert multiple videos simultaneously, making it a time-saving option for large-scale projects involving multiple files.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with HandBrake

Step 1: Add 4K file
Launch HandBrake, click "Open Source," and select your 4K video file for conversion. The program will load the file and prepare it for processing.

Step 2: Select 1080p output
In the output settings, select your desired format, such as MP4, and manually adjust the resolution to 1080p. This step ensures the video is downscaled from 4K.

Step 3: Start conversion
Click "Start Encode" to begin the conversion process. A progress bar will display the status as HandBrake converts your 4K video to 1080p.

Way 2: VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is a widely used free 4K 1080p converter that can seamlessly downscale 4K videos to 1080p. As a multi-functional media player, it supports numerous formats like MP4, AVI, and MKV, making it versatile for various conversion needs. It’s completely free and doesn’t impose any file size limits, perfect for handling large video files.

Key Features:

1. Completely free and open-source: VLC is entirely free to download and use, with no hidden costs or premium versions. It’s an open-source tool, making it accessible to all users.

2. Converts 4K to 1080p in various formats: VLC supports converting 4K videos to 1080p in popular formats like MP4, AVI, and MKV. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and media players, making it a versatile converter.

3. No file size limits: VLC imposes no restrictions on the file size, making it ideal for converting large video files without worry about limits or quality loss.

4. Basic video editing: VLC includes simple editing tools, such as trimming and adding filters, allowing users to make quick adjustments to their videos before conversion, without needing additional software.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with VLC

Step 1: Open VLC
Launch VLC, click “Media,” and select “Convert/Save.” Then, add your 4K file to the program to load it for conversion and processing.

Step 2: Select 1080p output
In the "Profile" section, choose the desired output format (MP4, AVI, etc.) and adjust the resolution settings to 1080p to downscale your 4K video.

Step 3: Start conversion
Click “Start” to begin the conversion process. VLC will display a progress bar to show the status as it converts your 4K video to 1080p.

Part 4: Best 2 Methods to Convert 4K to 1080p in Clicks Online

Method 1: Online-Convert

Online-Convert is a fast and easy-to-use 4K to 1080p online converter that requires no software installation. It's perfect for users looking to quickly downscale 4K videos without downloading an app. The tool supports various formats and offers customizable settings for bitrate and resolution, making it a flexible option for quick conversions.

Key Features:

1. Web-based tool: No software installation is needed, making Online-Convert accessible from any device with an internet connection. This allows you to convert videos on the go, from computers, tablets, or smartphones.

2. Supports various formats: Easily convert 4K videos to 1080p in multiple formats such as MP4, AVI, and MKV. This flexibility ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and media players.

3. Customizable settings: Allows users to adjust bitrate, resolution, and other settings to meet specific requirements, giving more control over the output quality and file size.

4. Free with limitations: The free version allows conversions with a file size limit, while premium options are available for handling larger files and faster conversion speeds.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with Online-Convert

Step 1: Upload your 4K file
Visit Online-Convert’s website, click on “Video Converter,” and upload your 4K file either from your device or cloud storage. This ensures the file is ready for processing online without any software installation.

Step 2: Select 1080p resolution
In the settings menu, choose 1080p as the desired output resolution. You can also adjust other preferences, such as bitrate or frame rate, to customize the video quality as per your needs.

Step 3: Start conversion
Click "Start Conversion" to begin the process. Once the conversion is finished, download the newly converted 1080p file directly to your device or cloud storage.

Method 2: Convertio

Convertio is another user-friendly tool for converting 4K to 1080p online. With a simple drag-and-drop interface, it offers a seamless experience for quick video conversions. Convertio also integrates with cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox, allowing you to upload and save videos directly from or to the cloud.

Key Features:

1. Easy drag-and-drop interface: This user-friendly feature simplifies uploading and converting files, making it accessible for beginners without prior experience.

2. Supports 4K to 1080p conversions: Users can downscale 4K videos to 1080p while maintaining quality, ensuring compatibility with various devices.

3. Cloud storage integration: The converter connects with Google Drive and Dropbox, allowing direct access to files for convenient conversions.

4. Free tier with file size limits: The free version provides basic conversion features but has size limits, with premium upgrades available for larger files.

Steps to Convert 4K to 1080P with Convertio

Step 1: Upload your 4K file
Open Convertio, then drag and drop your 4K video into the platform or upload it from cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox. This makes it easy to access files from multiple sources.

Step 2: Select 1080p as output
Choose your preferred format, such as MP4 or AVI, and manually set the resolution to 1080p in the output settings. This ensures your video is properly downscaled from 4K.

Step 3: Start conversion
Click "Convert" to begin the process. After the conversion is complete, download the 1080p file directly from the website to your device or cloud storage.

Conclusion

In this guide, we reviewed different tools to convert from 4K to 1080p, including both software and online options. Solutions like HandBrake, VLC, and Convertio provide flexible and efficient ways to downscale videos. That said, UniConverter excels with its fast conversion speeds, batch processing, and broad format support, making it a top choice for high-quality conversions. If you’re seeking an easy-to-use yet powerful tool to handle your 4K to 1080p conversions, give UniConverter a try today and enjoy a smooth, high-quality experience.

FAQs

1.What is the best 4K to 1080p converter?
UniConverter is one of the best 4K to 1080p converters, offering fast conversion speeds, batch processing, and support for a wide range of formats, ensuring high-quality results.

2.Can I convert 4K to 1080p without losing quality?
Yes, with tools like UniConverter or HandBrake, you can downscale 4K to 1080p while retaining most of the video quality by adjusting settings like bitrate and resolution carefully.

3.Is there a free tool to convert 4K to 1080p?
Yes, free tools like HandBrake and VLC allow you to convert 4K to 1080p at no cost, though some may have fewer advanced features compared to paid versions.

4.Does UniConverter support batch processing for 4K to 1080p conversion?
Yes, UniConverter supports batch processing, allowing you to convert multiple 4K videos to 1080p at once, saving time and effort for larger projects.

5.Can I use online tools to convert 4K to 1080p?
Yes, online tools like Online-Convert and Convertio can convert 4K to 1080p, though file size limits and slower conversion speeds may apply, especially for free versions.