What is MakeMKV and How to Use It

This article provides a comprehensive overview of MakeMKV, a popular software utility used to convert DVD and Blu-ray discs into digital files. You will learn what MakeMKV is, why it is favored by home media enthusiasts, and get a clear, step-by-step guide on how to use the software to digitize your physical disc collection into high-quality MKV files.

What is MakeMKV?

MakeMKV is a format converter, often referred to as a “ripper,” that reads proprietary DVD and Blu-ray discs to convert their contents into the MKV (Matroska) container format.

Unlike many other converters, MakeMKV does not re-encode or compress the video and audio. Instead, it copies the data stream directly from the disc into an MKV container. This means the resulting digital file retains 100% of the original video and audio quality, including high-definition audio formats like DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD, as well as original chapters and subtitle tracks.

Because no compression takes place, the conversion process is incredibly fast, limited only by the reading speed of your optical drive. However, this also means the output files are large—often up to 5–10 GB for DVDs and 30–50 GB for Blu-rays.

How to Use MakeMKV to Create MKV Files

Using MakeMKV is straightforward. Below is the step-by-step process to convert your physical discs into digital MKV files.

Step 1: Insert Your Disc and Open MakeMKV

Place the DVD or Blu-ray disc you wish to digitize into your computer’s optical drive. Launch the MakeMKV application. The software will automatically detect your drive and display information about the inserted disc.

Step 2: Analyze the Disc

Click the large optical drive icon in the center of the user interface. MakeMKV will scan the disc, bypass its copy protections, and analyze the titles, chapters, audio tracks, and subtitles. This process usually takes a minute or two.

Step 3: Select the Content to Convert

Once the scan is complete, MakeMKV will display a tree structure of the disc’s contents: * Titles: The main movie is typically the largest file (often checked by default). Bonus features, trailers, and menus will appear as smaller, separate titles. * Audio and Subtitles: Click the arrow next to a title to expand it. Here, you can check or uncheck specific audio languages and subtitle tracks to customize what is saved in your final file.

Step 4: Choose the Output Folder

In the right-hand panel under “Output folder,” click the folder icon to select where you want to save the finished MKV file on your computer or external hard drive. Ensure you have enough storage space available for the uncompressed file.

Step 5: Start the Conversion

Click the Make MKV button (the icon featuring a green arrow pointing to a hard drive) located in the upper-right corner. MakeMKV will begin extracting the selected tracks and packing them into the MKV container.

Once the process is complete, a pop-up window will notify you that the operation was successful. You can now open your output folder and play the MKV file using a compatible media player like VLC or import it into a home media server like Plex.