How to Convert DVD to Digital

How to Convert DVD to Digital

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Even in the age of streaming, many people still own stacks of DVDs filled with beloved movies, classic TV series, or personal recordings. But as DVD players become obsolete and newer devices drop disc drives altogether, it’s a smart move to convert DVD to digital for easier access, backup, and longevity.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to convert DVD to digital, both with free tools and with the most efficient DVD to digital converter available today. Whether you want to protect your collection or free up shelf space, digitizing DVDs is the way forward.

Why Convert DVDs to Digital?

If you’re wondering why it’s worth the effort to transfer DVD to digital, here are a few key reasons:

  • Preservation: DVDs degrade over time due to scratches, oxidation, or mishandling. Digital files don’t.
  • Portability: Digital copies can be stored on a hard drive, cloud service, or media server — accessible anytime, anywhere.
  • Convenience: No more switching discs or relying on outdated hardware. You can watch your movies on your phone, tablet, smart TV, or PC.
  • Backup: Create multiple copies and store them safely to ensure you never lose your content.

Whether it’s for convenience or long-term archival, learning how to digitize DVDs is a practical skill in 2025 and beyond.

How to Convert DVD to Digital Free

There are several free software options that let you convert DVD to digital. Below are the most popular and effective ones.

1 HandBrake (Open-Source)

HandBrake is a powerful, free, and open-source video transcoder available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Steps to Use HandBrake:

  1. Install HandBrake and launch the program.
  2. Insert your DVD into your computer’s disc drive.
  3. In HandBrake, select your DVD drive as the source.
  4. Choose the titles, chapters, and audio tracks you want to convert.
  5. Pick a format (usually MP4 or MKV).
  6. Hit “Start Encode.”

Pros:

  • Totally free
  • Highly customizable
  • Supports batch conversion

Cons:

  • Cannot bypass DVD copy protections natively
  • May require additional tools like libdvdcss for commercial DVDs

2 VLC Media Player (Free but Limited)

Most people know VLC as a versatile media player, but it also has basic ripping capabilities.

Steps to Convert DVD with VLC:

  1. Open VLC and go to Media > Convert / Save.
  2. Select the “Disc” tab and choose your DVD.
  3. Click “Convert / Save.”
  4. Choose output format and file destination.
  5. Start conversion.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • No need for additional software

Cons:

  • Limited output format options
  • Doesn’t support encrypted DVDs well
  • Slow conversion speed

3 MakeMKV

MakeMKV is another great free option for how to digitize DVDs, especially if you’re looking to preserve the original quality.

Steps to Use MakeMKV:

  1. Install MakeMKV.
  2. Insert your DVD and launch the software.
  3. Select your DVD drive and click “Open disc.”
  4. Choose the title(s) and audio/subtitle tracks.
  5. Click “Make MKV” to start ripping.

Pros:

  • Bypasses most copy protections
  • Maintains full video and audio quality
  • Simple interface

Cons:

  • Output file size is large (MKV format only)
  • Not ideal for mobile viewing without further compression

How to Convert DVD to Digital Using the Best Paid DVD-to-Digital Converter

If you’re looking for the most efficient, feature-rich, and user-friendly solution to transfer DVD to digital, then Leawo Blu-ray Ripper is the tool to use.

Unlike free software, Leawo Blu-ray Ripper handles everything — from commercial DVD encryption to format customization — making it the best Blu-ray Ripper and DVD converter in one.

Key Features of Leawo Blu-ray Ripper:

  • Supports DVD and Blu-ray discs
  • Removes region codes and copy protections
  • Converts DVDs to 180+ formats: MP4, MKV, AVI, MOV, etc.
  • Keeps 100% original video/audio quality
  • Preserves subtitles and audio tracks
  • Offers built-in video editor and 3D movie creator

How to Convert DVD to Digital with Leawo Blu-ray Ripper:

  1. Install Leawo Blu-ray Ripper
     Download and install the software from the official website.
  2. Load Your DVD
     Insert your DVD disc into the drive and click “Add Blu-ray/DVD.”
  3. Choose the Right Mode
    • Full Movie: Converts the entire disc.
    • Main Movie: Rips only the main feature.
    • Custom Mode: Lets you choose specific chapters, subtitles, or audio.
  4. Select Output Format
     Click the format drop-down and choose your desired format (MP4 is ideal for most devices).
  5. Set Output Folder
     Choose where to save your digital file.
  6. Start Converting
     Click the “Convert” button to begin.

Once complete, you’ll have a high-quality digital version of your DVD ready to play on any device.

 Bonus: Leawo also supports Blu-ray ripping, so you can future-proof your HD physical media collection too.

Conclusion

Physical media like DVDs still hold a special place in many people’s homes, but converting them to digital ensures they stay accessible and protected in today’s digital-first world. Whether you want to convert DVD to digital for convenience, archiving, or sharing, there’s a solution for every need.

  • For free options, HandBrake, VLC, and MakeMKV work well for basic conversions.
  • For the highest quality, ease of use, and full DVD/Blu-ray support, Leawo Blu-ray Ripper is the top choice and remains the best Blu-ray Ripper on the market.

So whether you’re working with old home videos or rare film collections, now you know exactly how to convert DVD to digital — and why it’s a smart move today.

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