If you’re around my age, you’ve witnessed quite the evolution of home video technology. Growing up, we recorded videos on VHS tapes, and over the years, camcorder formats kept changing. In the early 2000s, DVDs seemed like the ultimate way to preserve memories, but now, in the digital age, they’ve become outdated too. It’s time to dust off those old DVDs filled with personal memories and convert them to a digital format, so you can easily access and enjoy them on your current devices.

Whether you’re looking to preserve old home movies, declutter your space, share cherished memories with family, protect your collection from damage, or enjoy your favorite films on any device without the hassle of a DVD player, converting DVDs to digital is a smart solution. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a free and paid option to convert your DVDs.

Why Convert DVDs to Digital?

• Preserve memories: DVDs degrade over time. Digitizing them protects your videos.
• Declutter: Save space by getting rid of bulky stacks of discs.
• Access Anywhere: Watch your movies on your phone, tablet, or smart TV without a DVD player.
• Backup your collection: Prevent loss due to scratches, damage, or unexpected disasters like house fires.
• Easily Edit Your Footage – Once digitized, you can trim, enhance, or combine clips to create polished, shareable videos.
• Easily Share with Family – Easily send digital copies of home movies to loved ones!
• Future-Proof Your Media – DVDs are becoming obsolete- for years now, laptops and computers haven’t even included disc drives. Digital files ensure your videos remain accessible.
  

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Method 1: Convert DVDs with HandBrake (Free)

HandBrake is a powerful, free, open-source video converter available for Windows and Mac. Here’s how to use it:

1: Download and Install HandBrake

1. Go to HandBrake’s official website and install the software for free.

2: Insert Your DVD & Copy Files to Computer

1. Insert your DVD into your computer’s disc drive. If your computer doesn’t have one (most don’t these days), you’ll need to purchase an external disc drive.
2. Open the DVD in File Explorer (PC) or Finder (Mac). Do not open in DVD player.
3. Select all items and copy + paste into a folder on your computer.
4. Eject the DVD from the computer.

3: Convert Files Using Handbrake

1. Open HandBrake. Drag the folder of the DVD contents onto the program.
2. Handbrake will automatically identify the video files.
3. Click Title to see the individual videos that were found (often there is just one).
4. Set Preset– I use Fast 1080p30 as you can see in the screenshot below.
5. Set Format– I use MP4 for all video conversions.
6. Set the Destination where the converted files will be saved (click browse in the bottom right).
7. Click Add to Queue.
8. Repeat those steps for all videos found in the Title dropdown.
9. Click Start to begin converting everything in the queue. This will typically take a long time but you don’t have to stay and babysit the process.
10. Enjoy your new digital movie files!

HandBrake will save your converted file(s) in the selected location, ready to play on any device!

Method 2: Convert DVDs with Wondershare UniConverter (Paid, Easier Option)

If you prefer a more user-friendly interface with lots of additional features, Wondershare UniConverter is a great choice.

1: Download and Install Wondershare UniConverter

1. Visit Wondershare’s website and purchase UniConverter.
2. Install and open the software.

2: Insert Your DVD & Copy Files to Computer

1. Insert your DVD into your computer’s disc drive. If your computer doesn’t have one (most don’t these days), you’ll need to purchase an external disc drive.
2. Open the DVD in File Explorer (PC) or Finder (Mac). Do not open in DVD player.
3. Select all items and copy + paste into a folder on your computer.
4. Eject the DVD from the computer.

3: Convert Files Using Uniconverter

1. Open Uniconverter and find the Converter section. Drag the folder of the DVD contents onto the program. Uniconverter will automatically identify the videos.
2. Click Output Format and set to Original Quality, MP4 format.
3. Set the File Location where the converted files will be saved.
4. (optional) Enable ‘merge all files’ if you want to combine all clips into one final video file. This function is not available in the free Handbrake method (above) and can be really handy for certain projects!
5. Click Start All to begin converting.
6. Enjoy your new digital movie files!

One thing I love about Uniconverter is that it usually keeps the original file dates intact after conversion. With Handbrake the converted files will be dated the day of conversion.

As you can see in the screenshot, Uniconverter has LOTS of additional features in the left sidebar like Downloader (to save files from websites like YouTube), a Video Compressor, and more.

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FAQs: DVD to Digital Conversion

What’s the best format to convert DVDs to?

MP4 is the best choice for universal compatibility across devices.

How long does it take to convert a DVD?

Conversion time depends on your computer’s speed, the software used, and video quality settings. I’d say 10-30 minutes per DVD is pretty common.

Can I convert DVDs to store on a cloud service?

Yes! Once converted, upload your digital files to Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for easy access anywhere.

How much storage do I need for my digital files?

A standard DVD holds about 4.7GB of data. Converting to MP4 will reduce file sizes while maintaining quality, so estimate around 2GB per hour of video.

Can I convert copyrighted DVDs, like movies or TV shows?

Copying commercial DVDs is illegal in most countries. You can digitize personal home videos and non-copyrighted content.

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Converting DVDs to digital is a smart way to preserve and access your home video collection. HandBrake is a great free option for those comfortable with a few extra steps, while Wondershare UniConverter simplifies the process with a paid solution. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy your DVDs in a more convenient digital format!

Not interested in converting DVDs yourself?

I can help with converting any type of video! Learn more about my video conversion services.

Want to learn more about converting old video formats, storing your video files, editing custom family films, and more?

Check out my Organizing Videos Fast Class!

*This post contains affiliate links which means I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase based on my recommendation.