DVD Ripper

DVD rippers extract video and audio from discs. Convert DVDs to digital formats for backup, playback, and device compatibility.

DVD ripper

A DVD ripper copies the video from a disc to a file on your computer so you can watch it without the disc. This helps protect the original from scratches and makes travel easier with laptops or tablets. With simple steps, you can choose quality, size, and subtitles that fit your needs. Good settings keep clear sound and smooth pictures. A tidy library lets your family enjoy movies at home or on the go.

What do I need to start?

You need a computer with a DVD drive, the disc you own, and ripping software installed. Close other apps so the drive can read smoothly. Pick a folder with enough space and choose an output like MP4 or MKV. If the movie has subtitles or extra audio tracks, select the ones you want before you begin. Start the copy and wait until the progress reaches 100 percent.

How do I choose the right quality?

Use mp4 for broad device support.
Choose 720p for balance on small screens.
Keep bitrate moderate for smooth play.
Include only needed audio tracks.

Can I keep subtitles and chapters?

Yes, many tools let you copy soft subtitles that you can turn on or off, and they can save chapter marks too. If you need burned in text for an older player, choose hard subtitles, but remember they cannot be removed later. Keep only the languages you use to save space. Test a short clip first to be sure the timing looks right.

Is a fast ripper better than a careful one?

Fast modes are fine when discs are clean and simple. Careful modes retry reads on scratched discs and take longer but give fewer errors. Start with fast, and if the video stutters or stops, switch to a safe mode. Always verify the final file plays well from start to finish.

How can I organize ripped movies?

Name files with year and title like 2010‑my‑movie.mp4 so sorting is easy. Put movies in folders by series or genre. Add a poster image in the folder so you can spot it quickly. Keep a simple spreadsheet of titles, length, and where the original disc is stored.

How do I save space without losing much?

Trim unused audio tracks and extras you will not watch. Use a modern codec and a medium bitrate so the picture stays clear. Downscale long movies slightly if you watch on small screens. Archive the full quality file only for favorites and keep smaller versions for daily use.

DVD Ripper FAQ

What is a DVD ripper?

A DVD ripper is simple software that copies video from a disc to a file on your computer. It reads the movie, keeps audio and subtitles, and saves to formats like MP4 or MKV. Use it to back up home videos or convert discs for devices, while following local law and fair personal use rules.

Which settings give good quality and size?

Pick MP4 with H.264 video, AAC stereo, and a bitrate around 2–3 Mbps for films. Use deinterlace for old DVDs, keep original frame rate, and add soft subtitles when needed. For small screens, lower bitrate; for TV, choose higher. Test a short clip to balance quality, file size, and device playback.

Where do ripped files get saved?

Set the Output folder in the ripper before you start. Many tools default to Videos or a named project folder. Create simple names with the title and year, and store subtitles with the same base name. Keep backups on an external drive or cloud so your movie library stays safe and easy to search later.

How long does ripping a DVD take?

Most DVDs take 15–45 minutes, depending on drive speed, movie length, and options like deinterlace or two‑pass encode. Old or scratched discs may need retries and extra time. You can keep using the computer during the job, but avoid heavy reads that might slow the ripper or cause dropped frames.

How do I rip a DVD step by step?

Install the ripper, insert the disc, and open the main movie title. Pick MP4 or MKV, set H.264 video and AAC audio, choose subtitles, and pick Output. Enable deinterlace if the preview shows lines. Start the job and check a short clip at the end to be sure the file plays well on your device.

Which is better: MP4 or MKV?

MP4 plays on almost every phone, TV, and browser, so it is great for simple playback and sharing. MKV can store more tracks and features like multiple subtitles and chapters. Pick MP4 for broad support and MKV when you care about extras or exact quality from your DVD backup and media library.