Quick Answer: You cannot directly convert Netflix cache files (.NFV) to MP4 because they are encrypted with DRM (Part 1). Renaming the file extension will not work. To get an MP4 file, you must use a tool such as KeepStreams (Part 2) that downloads Netflix to MP4 during the download process, not a file converter (Part 3).
You might want to watch Netflix videos you just downloaded on another device, such as a bigger screen on a smart TV, at some point. Unfortunately, Netflix only provides the option to watch downloaded titles via the official app.
At this time, downloading Netflix to MP4 is very useful. This kind of video format is compatible with most players and devices. In this way, you can transfer and play the downloaded Netflix shows on any device you like.
In this guide, I will walk you through why standard "converters" fail, and how to successfully get Netflix to MP4 using the correct tools in 2026.
Why Should You Download Netflix to MP4?
Note: Netflix doesn't provide the official option to convert the downloads into MP4 format. The only way to do it is to rely on a third-party tool. We don't recommend using online free Netflix to MP4 Converters, because they always present unsourced ads and run the risk of stealing your information.
First of all, the MP4 format boasts an unparalleled compatibility with almost all players. It means that you can play the downloaded videos on any devices you like, such as TVs, gaming consoles, mobile devices, and laptops.
What's more, the official download function has Netflix download limits, and the MP4 format can break them all. For example, you can move the downloaded videos to other devices, cut the videos as you prefer, and watch the downloaded shows whenever you like.
The last and most important advantage might be the availability of forever savings. By downloading Netflix in the MP4 format, you can save the downloads forever, without worrying about expiration.
You may also want to know how to download Netflix movies on a Mac without any restrictions.
NFV Files Cannot Be Converted Directly
If you navigate to the download folder on your Android or Windows device, you will likely find a clutter of files with the .NFV extension. Many users attempt to simply rename these to .MP4 or upload them to an online video converter.
This will never work. Here is why:
DRM Encryption: Netflix uses Widevine DRM (on Android/Chrome) or PlayReady DRM (on Windows) to encrypt the video stream. The .NFV file can only be opened in the Netflix app.
Segmentation: Often, the video and audio tracks are split into thousands of tiny data chunks. A standard Netflix converter cannot open an NFV file.
The Difference Between a Converter and a Downloader
When looking for an answer, it is important to know the difference between business language and the way things really are in technology.
Screen Recorders (Often labeled as "Converters"): These tools record the pixels of the movie that plays on your screen. It works, but it takes 1:1 real-time (for example, a 2-hour movie takes 2 hours to "convert") and often lowers the quality of the output.
True Downloaders: These tools work directly with the live server to save the unedited video stream as a regular file. This is the only way to get a true Netflix to MP4 download in original quality.
Method 1: Use a Professional Netflix to MP4 Downloader (Best Quality)
Note: For high-quality offline viewing, a dedicated Netflix MP4 downloader is superior to recording. It preserves 1080p resolution, 5.1 surround sound, and subtitles, while downloading at high speeds (up to 32MB/s) via GPU acceleration.
The first tool I recommend is KeepStreams for Netflix. This tool can support downloading Netflix videos in their original quality (up to Full HD 1080p), and convert the shows into a compatible MP4/MKV format at the same time.
KeepStreams for Netflix can convert the Netflix videos into MP4 format or MKV, which can be adjusted via Settings > Preferences > Preferred Settings > Video Format.
It's also pretty easy to use KeepStreams to download Netflix to MP4 because of the user-friendly built-in browser. You only need to follow these steps:
1. Download and install KeepStreams on your Windows PC or Mac. Navigate to VIP services and find Netflix.
2. Log in to your own account to access the Netflix library.
3. Select the video and set up the outputs before clicking on the download button to start the downloading process.
Read on to check how to download subtitles on Netflix.
Method 2: Use Format Factory Converter
As its name suggests, Format Factory aims to alter the video's file extension. You truly need not worry about Netflix not being converted over totally to MP4 with this tool.
This tool can also convert the format of images, audio, and even PDF. The universal usage can be very helpful if you are also in similar demand. But it also decides the unprofessional conversion of videos. You might encounter failure during the conversion.
Here is how to convert Netflix downloaded files to MP4 with Video Format Factory:
- Install this application. Click the "+" image to add the downloaded Netflix file. Transfer the Netflix video to your mobile device.
- In the customization option, change the video. After that, select MP4 as the output format. Later, convert it.
- Save it to your device whenever everything is finished.
Method 3: Record Netflix Clips to MP4
Note: Free screen recording software like OBS works fine if you just need to convert a Netflix clip to MP4 for a meme or a quick social media edit. However, you must disable "Hardware Acceleration" in your browser to avoid the black screen issue.
If you don't need the entire movie and just want to save a funny 30-second scene, using a Netflix MP4 converter that is actually a screen recorder is a viable, free option.
Using OBS or Browser Recorders
Tools like OBS Studio or browser extensions can capture your screen. This is ideal for content creators making "Best Scenes" compilations or TikTok edits.
The most common query in forums like Reddit/r/OBS is: "Why is my screen black when recording Netflix?" This is a DRM protection feature. To bypass it for fair-use recording:
- Open your browser settings (Chrome/Edge).
- Search for "Hardware Acceleration".
- Turn it OFF and relaunch the browser.
- Your screen recorder should now capture the video instead of a black box.
This method is not recommended for full movies because you cannot perform other tasks on your computer during the recording, and the audio is usually limited to Stereo (2.0).
Comparison: KeepStreams vs. Screen Recorders vs. Online Converters
To help you decide which Netflix MP4 solution fits your needs, we have compared the top 3 methods based on 2025 standards.
| Feature | KeepStreams Downloader | Screen Recorder (OBS) | Online Converters (CocoCut) |
| Output Format | Native MP4 / MKV | MP4 (Re-encoded) | N/A (Usually Fail) |
| Max Resolution | 1080p / 4K (if avail) | Screen Resolution | 720p (at best) |
| Audio Quality | Atmos, EAC3 5.1, AAC 2.0 | Stereo 2.0 | Stereo |
| Speed | Fast (10-20 mins per movie) | Slow (1:1 Real-time) | Slow |
| Subtitles | Toggleable / .SRT files | Burned-in only | None |
| Batch Mode | Yes | No | No |
| Supported Systems | Windows & Mac | Windows, Mac, Linux | Web Browser |
| Safety & Ads | 100% Safe, Ad-free, Clean | Safe (Open Source) | High Risk (Pop-ups, Malware) |
| Metadata Info | Auto-saved (Cover, Cast, Title) | None (Manual input required) | None |
| Success Rate | High (Frequent DRM updates) | Medium (Depends on hardware) | Low (Frequent server errors) |
| Best For | Building a high-quality movie/show library | Recording gameplay or tutorials | One-time, low-quality clips |
| Review | KeepStreams Review | OBS Review | CocoCut Review |
Conclusion
Finding the right Netflix Converter is troublesome because of its document limits and trouble tracking down records. Netflix's video restrictions discourage customers from switching. The fact that there are still a lot of programs that can convert Netflix to MP4 or rip Netflix to MP4 format is positive.
The KeepStreams for Netflix Downloader lets you download high-quality videos. The fact that you can download content of high quality up to 1080p in MP4 or MKV formats is the feature of this software that stands out the most.
FAQs
Q1. Is it legal to download Netflix to MP4？
A1. In most jurisdictions, bypassing DRM is technically against the terms of service. However, "format shifting" for personal, offline use (like watching on a plane) generally falls under the fair use doctrine in many regions. You should never distribute or sell downloaded content.
Q2. Why is my downloaded Netflix video playing, but with no sound？
A2. This happens a lot when you download audio in the EAC3 format, and your player (Windows Media Player, for example) doesn't handle it. VLC Media Player supports almost all codecs, so we suggest that you use it.
Q3. Can I play these Netflix MP4 files on my TV？
A3. Yes. Once you use a Netflix MP4 downloader such as KeepStreams (in Part 2) to get the file, it is DRM-free. You can put it on a USB drive and plug it into any Smart TV, Projector, or Gaming Console.
Q4. Do the downloads expire like official Netflix downloads？
A4. No. The official Netflix app downloads expire after 48 hours or 30 days. MP4 files downloaded via tools like KeepStreams are permanent and will never expire, even if your subscription ends.
NOTE:
Content available on Netflix™ is protected by copyright. Unauthorized redistribution of this content may violate copyright laws in the United States and other countries.
KeepStreams is an independent company and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with Netflix™ or its parent company. The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not imply any endorsement of KeepStreams products by any third party.
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