The Ultimate Guide - How to Merge Video Files Using FFmpeg

FFmpeg can help merge multiple videos into one seamless file is a common task for video editors and content creators. Whether you’re combining video clips from different sources, aligning audio and video tracks, or simply consolidating your media files, FFmpeg is a powerful tool that can help you achieve this. This guide will walk you through the process of merging videos using FFmpeg, covering everything for merging videos effortlessly!

Preparations Before Merging Videos Using FFmpeg

Before you start merging videos with FFmpeg, it's important to make sure you have all the necessary tools and preparations. First, make sure you have FFmpeg installed on your system. If not, visit the official FFmpeg website to download and install it to your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

Also, check if the video files you want to merge are compatible, meaning they have similar formats, resolutions, and frame rates. If not, consider converting them to a matching format before merging them. With these steps, you can start merging videos seamlessly.

How to Merge Videos with Same Codecs Using FFmpeg

If your videos have the same codecs, merging them with FFmpeg becomes a straightforward process. This method ensures compatibility and reduces the risk of errors. This section will walk you through the steps to combine multiple videos seamlessly using FFmpeg when they share the same codecs, allowing you to create a smooth, unified video file in no time. You can follow the steps below to merge videos with same codecs using FFmpeg:

Step 1Create a .txt file and list the paths where the video files you want to merge are stored.

Join_video.txt

file /Users/Video/input1.mp4

file /Users/Video/input2.mp4

Step 2Then, run the following command using FFmpeg to merge video files together:

ffmpeg -f concat -safe 0 -i join_video.txt -c copy output_demuxer.mp4

How to Merge Different MP4 Videos Using FFmpeg

Merging different MP4 videos with FFmpeg can be a bit more challenging, especially when the files have varying codecs or formats. However, FFmpeg provides a flexible way to handle this, allowing you to combine MP4 files seamlessly. This section will guide you through the steps to merge two MP4 videos of different specifications, ensuring a smooth output without compromising video quality.

Step 1Provide FFmpeg with the names of the video files you want to merge.

ffmpeg -i file1.mp4 -i file2.mp4 -i file3.mp4 \

Step 2Use the following command to tell FFmpeg which video file you want to extract and the video and audio contained in it:

-filter_complex "[0:v] [0:a] [1:v] [1:a] [2:v] [2:a]

Step 3Use the following command to connect three different video files:

concat=n=3:v=1:a=1 [vv] [aa]" \

Step 4Concatenate these audio and video outputs to each other and save them to the same final file.

-map "[vv]" -map "[aa]" mergedVideo.mp4

How to Merge Videos with Audio Streams Using FFmpeg

Besides, if you want to merge videos with audio streams using FFmpeg, it is also a common task, especially when you need to combine multiple video clips along with their respective audio tracks. Whether you're working with separate video and audio files or merging videos with embedded sound, FFmpeg can handle the task efficiently. This section will walk you through the process of merging both video and audio streams, ensuring that the sync between them remains perfect. Follow the steps below to merge videos using FFmpeg:

Step 1Specify the input files and opening.mkv, episode.mkv, and ending.mkv:

$ ffmpeg -i opening.mkv -i episode.mkv -i ending.mkv -filter_complex

Step 2Use the filter_complex parameter in FFmpeg to specify the input streams for video and audio.

[0:0] [0:1] [0:2] [1:0] [1:1] [1:2] [2:0] [2:1] [2:2]

Step 3Use the concat filter to specify that 3 files (n=3) are to be concatenated, 1 video stream (v=1) and 2 audio streams (a=2).

concat=n=3:v=1:a=2 [v] [a1] [a2]

Step 4Use the -map option to map the output streams to the final video container:

-map '[v]' -map '[a1]' -map '[a2]' output.mkv

A Beginner-Friendly Solution to Merging Videos Quickly

If you're looking for an easier and more user-friendly way to merge videos without having to deal with complicated commands, 4Easysoft Total Video Converter is a great choice. This tool, providing total solutions for converting videos, offers an intuitive interface that allows even beginners to combine multiple videos with just a few clicks.

Unlike FFmpeg, which requires you to enter commands manually, 4Easysoft Total Video Converter offers an easy-to-use drag-and-drop feature, making it perfect for those who want to merge videos quickly and efficiently. It ensures a seamless merging process, saving you time and effort while preserving video quality. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, 4Easysoft Total Video Converter is a hassle-free solution for merging videos.

Step 1Launch 4Easysoft Total Video Converter and click the “Add Files” to import video files for merging.

Step 2Click the “Convert All to” button to select the desired output format for your video file combined.

Step 3Click the “Merge into one file” button before converting all the video files. Finally, click the “Convert All” button.

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