What should I use for batch video conversion on a back catalog?

For a back catalog batch video conversion, the best default choice is usually:

Use FFmpeg

It’s the industry standard for:

• batch transcoding
• remuxing
• resizing
• changing codecs/containers
• preserving quality with control over bitrate, CRF, presets, audio tracks, subtitles, etc.

Why FFmpeg is the best fit

• Fast and reliable
• Works with almost any format
• Scriptable for large libraries
• Free and open source
• Supports both CPU and hardware-accelerated encoding

Good options depending on your needs

1. FFmpeg + a script

Best if you want maximum control.

• Use Bash, PowerShell, or Python to loop through files
• Ideal for large archives and repeatable workflows

2. HandBrakeCLI

Best if you want a simpler preset-driven workflow.

• Easier for standard conversions
• Great if your main goal is “convert everything to X with a good default quality”
• Less flexible than FFmpeg, but easier to manage

3. Tdarr

Best if you have a large media library and want automated library management.

• Popular for home media back catalogs
• Can auto-transcode and normalize libraries
• Great if you’re converting for Plex/Jellyfin/Emby compatibility

4. Shutter Encoder

Best if you want a GUI but still powerful tools.

• Front-end for FFmpeg
• Easier than command-line
• Good for ad hoc batch jobs

Recommended choice by scenario

• Technical / want control: FFmpeg
• Simple batch conversion: HandBrakeCLI
• Media server library cleanup: Tdarr
• GUI workflow: Shutter Encoder

Practical recommendation

If you’re dealing with a large back catalog, I’d suggest:

1. FFmpeg if you’re comfortable scripting
2. Tdarr if this is a media library and you want automation
3. HandBrakeCLI if you want a simpler “convert all to H.265/HEVC” style workflow

Typical safe target formats

• MP4 + H.264 + AAC for maximum compatibility
• MKV + H.265/HEVC for better compression if compatibility is acceptable

If you want, I can give you:

• a recommended FFmpeg command
• a batch script for Windows/macOS/Linux
• or a decision tree for choosing codec/container based on your archive.