How to Convert AVI to MKV Online or on Desktop
Import your AVI video into UniConverter
Open UniConverter in your browser to upload a single AVI file directly from your computer or cloud, ideal for a quick AVI to MKV fix without installation. For multiple AVIs or very large files, launch the desktop version and drag entire folders into the converter window for efficient batch preparation.
Choose MKV as the output format
In the online AVI to MKV converter, simply select MKV as your target format to get a straightforward, fast conversion with sensible default quality. On desktop, also pick MKV but fine‑tune resolution, bitrate, codecs, and presets, which is helpful when converting many videos or balancing quality and file size.
Start converting and save your MKV file
Click Convert in the online tool to process your AVI and then download the MKV file immediately, perfect for one‑off tasks. In the desktop app, start the batch conversion to handle dozens of AVIs at once, then save MKV outputs to your chosen drive or library ready for Plex, TVs, or backups.
AVI vs MKV: Why Convert Your Videos
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AVI
|
MKV
|
|
|---|---|---|
| File Extension | .avi | .mkv |
| Full Name | Audio Video Interleave | Matroska Video |
| Description | AVI is a legacy Microsoft video container that stores audio and video streams with relatively simple structure, often using older codecs. Files can be large and less flexible, with weaker support for modern subtitles, chapters, and advanced metadata compared to newer containers. | MKV is a modern, open container format that can hold multiple audio tracks, advanced subtitles, chapters, and rich metadata. It is widely used for HD and UHD content, works well with modern codecs, and offers better flexibility and compatibility with players and media servers. |
| Associated Programs | Windows Media Player, VLC media player, KMPlayer, MPC-HC | VLC media player, MKVToolNix, KMPlayer, PotPlayer, Plex Media Server |
| Initial Release | 1992 | 2002 |
| Developer | Microsoft | Matroska / Matroska.org |
| Common Use Cases | Older video downloads, legacy camcorder footage, archived TV episodes, and compatibility with very old Windows software or hardware players. | HD movies, TV series libraries, Blu-ray rips, Plex collections, multi-language videos, and files requiring advanced subtitle and chapter support. |
| MIME Type | video/x-msvideo | video/x-matroska |
Why Use UniConverter for AVI to MKV
High-quality AVI to MKV without confusing settings
Preserve clear picture and audio when you convert AVI to MKV. The online tool uses smart defaults for quick, good-looking results, while the desktop version lets you keep original resolution and tune quality profiles so your converted MKV videos stay sharp and consistent.
1000+ Formats Supported for Any Video Workflow
UniConverter supports 1000+ formats, so you can go far beyond AVI to MKV—convert between MP4, MOV, WMV, WebM, and more. Use the online converter for occasional single files, and rely on the desktop app for extensive format shifting across entire video collections.
Fast online AVI to MKV conversion in your browser
Handle quick fixes with the web-based AVI to MKV converter: Upload AVI File, pick MKV, and download the result in minutes. No installation, sign-up pressure, or complex configuration—ideal when you just need one or two videos ready to play on a modern device.
Desktop batch conversion for large AVI libraries
Use UniConverter desktop when you have many AVIs to process. Add whole folders, queue hundreds of episodes, and convert them to MKV in one batch. This saves time versus converting files individually online and keeps your media library consistent and organized.
Advanced desktop control over output settings
On desktop, customize MKV output in detail—adjust resolution, bitrate, frame rate, audio tracks, and more to control quality and file size. This level of parameter tuning is not available in the online converter, making the app better for demanding or professional workflows.
Clear guidance on choosing Online vs Desktop
UniConverter helps you decide which tool fits your AVI to MKV task. Use online conversion for fast, free, one-off videos without setup. Choose desktop when you need offline reliability, batch processing, or deeper control over export settings for big projects and archives.
AVI to MKV Conversion FAQs
Will I lose quality converting AVI to MKV?
How do I convert AVI to MKV online for free?
What is the best way to batch convert AVI to MKV?
Can VLC convert AVI to MKV, and why use UniConverter instead?
Is it safe to use an AVI to MKV converter online?
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