FFMPEG Batch Convert Directory: A Step-by-Step Guide

FFMPEG is a powerful open-source multimedia processing tool that allows users to perform various tasks such as video and audio encoding, decoding, and streaming. One of the most common use cases for FFMPEG is batch converting directories containing multiple files. In this article, we will explore how to achieve this using various methods, including command-line arguments and PowerShell scripts.

Method 1: Using Command-Line Arguments

To convert an entire directory using FFMPEG's command-line interface, you can navigate to the directory in the command prompt or terminal and use the following syntax:

```

ffmpeg -i %f -c:v libx264 -crf 18 -c:a aac -b:a 128k output.mp4

```

This command will convert all video files (.mp4) in the current directory to H.264 video with AAC audio.

Method 2: Using FFMPEGPath Parameter

If you have installed FFMPEG somewhere other than the default location, you can specify the path to the executable using the `-ffmpegpath` parameter. For example:

```

-ffmpegpath 'C:\FFmpeg\bin\ffmpeg.exe' -i %f -c:v libx264 -crf 18 -c:a aac -b:a 128k output.mp4

```

This command will use the specified FFMPEG executable to perform the conversion.

Method 3: Using PowerShell Script

You can also create a PowerShell script to automate the batch conversion process. Here's an example script:

```powershell

$ffmpegPath = 'C:\FFmpeg\bin\ffmpeg.exe'

$directory = 'C:\Videos'

$outputDirectory = 'C:\ConvertedVideos'

Get-ChildItem -Path $directory -Filter *.mp4 | ForEach-Object {

$inputFile = $_.FullName

$outputFile = Join-Path -Path $outputDirectory -ChildPath ($_.Name + '.mp4')

& $ffmpegPath -i $inputFile -c:v libx264 -crf 18 -c:a aac -b:a 128k $outputFile

}

```

This script navigates to the specified directory, iterates through all .mp4 files, and uses FFMPEG to convert them. The converted files are saved in the specified output directory.

FFMPEG batch converting directories can be achieved using various methods, including command-line arguments, FFMPEGPath parameter, and PowerShell scripts. By understanding these methods, you can automate your video conversion tasks and streamline your workflow.

Ffmpeg batch convert directory