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Best Ways to Convert AVI to MKV Without Losing Quality [2025 Guide]

Farah Maria
Farah Maria Originally published Jun 23, 25, updated Jun 23, 25

AVI and MKV are two standard video containers. AVI is older, with large file sizes and fewer track options. MKV supports better compression, multiple audio, and subtitles. Many users now prefer MKV for flexibility and device compatibility.

Why convert AVI to MKV? The benefits include smaller size, wider playback support, and improved streaming. For editing, users seek ways to maintain quality, reduce information loss, and allow multi-layer editing.

This guide explores three top methods: desktop, media player, and online tools. Learn how to convert efficiently, edit easily, and pick the right tool for your needs.

avi to mkv converter free

Our Top 3 AVI to MKV Converter Picks

Here are three proven ways to convert AVI to MKV. You can use advanced desktop software, a simple media player, or a fast AVI to MKV online converter to achieve the results you want.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Best All-in-One Video Editor + Converter

Wondershare Filmora is a creative desktop solution that enables users to edit and convert videos simultaneously. It allows high-quality conversions from AVI to MKV directly. Besides changing formats, this tool helps creators refine and polish clips during the export process.

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2. VLC

VLC is a trusted media player that also works as a basic AVI to MKV converter. It’s perfect for users who want quick, offline format changes without installing heavy software. No editing features, but reliable for simple conversion tasks.

3. CloudConvert

CloudConvert is a popular AVI to MKV converter online. It supports over 200 formats with secure uploads. Simply upload, change the settings, and convert; no software is required. Great for users who want quick, browser-based format conversion without the need for editing tools.

Part 1. How to Convert AVI to MKV on Desktop (Windows/Mac)

Wondershare Filmora holds a top position as a tool that effortlessly converts AVI to MKV and other formats. It offers rapid performance and creative options to enhance your videos.

best avi to mkv converter

Key Features

  • Supports seamless AVI to MKV change with high-quality output.
  • Removes background noise while converting videos, allows you to edit them, and adds effects.
  • Keeps the original sharpness and detail in every conversion made, with zero quality loss.
  • Covers numerous formats like MKV, MOV, MP4, WEBM, and many others.
  • Works on different devices and platforms for sharing purposes, making it simple.

There is much more to Filmora than just a basic AVI to MKV converter. It’s a complete desktop editing and export solution.

Pros
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac.
  • Uses advanced artificial intelligence techniques to make editing and converting AVI to MKV more efficient.
  • Consists of several built-in transitions, overlays, and effects.
  • Easy-to-use UI is fit for both experts and novices.
  • Adaptable subscription models for many user requirements.
Cons
  • The free version applies a watermark to the output video.
  • Some tools and features may only be available with a paid plan.
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How to Convert AVI to MKV

Step1Choose one of the three methods listed below to import your AVI file:

  • Go to File > Import Media.
  • Click Import Media Files Here.
  • The AVI file can be dropped into Filmora.
import avi file

Step2Select MKV as the output format from the Local tab. Additionally, you can convert AVI to MKV, WMV, MP4, MOV, and other formats.

Step3Click Settings to change bitrate, resolution, and other export options. To create your MKV file, click the Export button. Share either straight to social media or save to your PC.

covert and export import mkv file
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Part 2. How to Change AVI to MKV Using VLC Media Player

avi to mkv converter vlc

Key Features

  • Supports over a thousand video, audio, and subtitle formats.
  • Acts on practically any media file, disc, or device.
  • Offers subtitles, sync choices, and audio and visual filters.
  • Not even spyware, user monitoring, or advertising included.
  • Allows you to convert AVI to MKV and enables simple editing and customization.
Pros
  • Completely free with no watermark on output.
  • Works with both audio and video files.
Cons
  • Conversion can be slow or laggy, especially for large files.
  • No built-in video editing tools

How to Convert AVI to MKV

  1. Launch VLC on your Windows or Mac computer.
  2. Select "Media" from the top menu. Next, select "Convert/Save."
  3. To submit the AVI file you want to convert, click "Add."
  4. MKV is now selectable as an output format in the Output section.
  5. Press "Convert" to begin changing the format from AVI to MKV.

Part 3. Use AVI to MKV Online Converter for File Format Conversion

Online converters offer quick AVI MKV conversions without installing software. Ideal for light or infrequent use.

1. CloudConvert

The online AVI to MKV converter, CloudConvert, is entirely free. It works in your browser, so there’s no need to download extra software. The free version has a daily limit of 25 conversions. For more frequent use, paid plans are available. It’s an excellent choice for casual users wanting quick AVI MKV conversion.

change avi to mkv online

Key Features

  • Supports a broad spectrum of forms, including archives, audio, video, and papers.
  • Simple interface, upload AVI and select MKV with just a few steps.
  • Permits improved control through changes to file size, quality, and resolution.
  • Uses encryption to protect your information throughout the AVI to MKV change.
Pros
  • Built-in encryption protects all video conversions. Handles over 200 different file formats, including AVI to MKV.
Cons
  • You can only convert 25 videos per day for free.

How it works

  1. Start by visiting CloudConvert's website. Tap on 'Select File' to submit your AVI video.
  2. Pick MKV as the output format. Change the quality or resolution as per your need.
  3. Press "Convert" to begin converting AVI to MKV. After that, you can download and work with the file.

2. FreeConvert Online Converter

FreeConvert is a helpful online AVI to MKV converter. It supports batch conversion, letting you queue multiple files. You can upload videos directly from your device, a URL, or cloud services. This tool is a straightforward source to convert AVI to MKV online at no cost.

free convert avi to mkv

Key Features

  • Changes over 1500 types of files, which include documents, images, audio, and video files.
  • Provides powerful features to modify the codec, screen resolution, ratio, and frame rate.
  • More control over AVI to MKV conversions than many online services offer.
Pros
  • Facilitates conversion from AVI to MKV and supports 60 additional prevalent video formats.
  • Secures conversions using 256-bit encryption.
Cons
  • The free plan limits uploads to files under 1 GB.

How it works

  1. Visit the FreeConvert website. Click Choose Files or drag your AVI files into the upload area. Dropbox and Google Drive are additional options for uploading.
  2. Choose MKV as the final format. Modify any advanced options as required.
  3. Click the ‘Start’ button to begin the AVI to MKV conversion. Retrieve your transformed file once complete.

3. ConvertFiles

ConvertFiles is a free AVI to MKV converter online. It supports many video formats. Once your file is converted, you receive a download link by email. This allows you to close the browser during the process for added convenience.

avi to mkv online via convertfiles

Key Features

  • Support AVI to MKV conversions among several video formats.
  • Basic, straightforward, rapid processing interface.
  • No software download, entirely online and accessible from any device.
  • Sends a download link via email when the AVI to MKV conversion is complete.
  • Ensures user privacy by removing files after processing.
Pros
  • Fully free AVI to MKV conversion available.
  • Sends the download link by email, so the browser can be closed.
Cons
  • Limited support for file formats compared to other tools.

How it works

  1. Open the ConvertFiles website. Click Browse to upload your AVI file.
  2. Select MKV as the output format.
  3. Start the conversion process by clicking on ‘Start’. You will receive a download link through email once the AVI to MKV conversion is complete.

Conclusion

Converting AVI to MKV offers several clear benefits: smaller file size, improved playback, and flexible editing. This guide compares top tools, ranging from quick online AVI to MKV converters to full-featured desktop editors.

Filmora stands out for users who want editing and smooth format conversion in one place. VLC offers a lightweight alternative, while CloudConvert and others cater to casual needs.

For polished videos with no quality loss, Filmora provides a creative edge that surpasses basic conversion.

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Farah Maria
Farah Maria Jun 23, 25
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