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If you use AnyDesk for remote support or collaboration, you might have recorded sessions using its built-in recorder. By default, AnyDesk saves recordings in its proprietary .anydesk format. While this file plays back inside AnyDesk, it’s useless on phones, video editors, or social media.
The universal solution? Convert .anydesk to .mp4 — the most compatible video format in existence.
Here’s the updated, fastest, and free way to do it in 2025.
While the .anydesk extension is annoying, it is designed for efficiency. For quick viewing, stick to the built-in player. For sharing and archiving, use the export features in the latest version of the client or use the screen-capture workaround to get your video into a universal MP4 format.
Why convert AnyDesk video to MP4?
AnyDesk recordings are saved in a proprietary format, which might not be compatible with all media players or devices. Converting them to MP4, a widely supported format, makes it easier to share, play, or edit the recordings.
Method 1: Using AnyDesk's built-in export feature (version 7.1 and later)
Method 2: Using a third-party converter (for older AnyDesk versions or more control)
Software required:
Steps:
ffmpeg -i input_file.adr -c:v libx264 -crf 18 output.mp4
Replace input_file.adr with the path to your AnyDesk recording and output.mp4 with the desired output file name.
Optional: If you want to adjust settings like resolution, frame rate, or bitrate, you can modify the command. For example:
ffmpeg -i input_file.adr -c:v libx264 -crf 18 -s 640x480 -r 30 output.mp4
This command converts the recording to 640x480 resolution at 30 frames per second.
Method 3: Using online conversion tools
If you don't want to install any software, you can use online tools like Convertio or CloudConvert. These services allow you to upload your AnyDesk recording and convert it to MP4.
Keep in mind:
Conclusion
Converting AnyDesk video recordings to MP4 is a straightforward process using the built-in export feature (for version 7.1 and later) or third-party converters like FFmpeg. If you're not comfortable with command-line tools, you can use GUI wrappers or online conversion services.
Converting AnyDesk video to MP4 is not as simple as changing the file extension, but it is entirely possible with the right tools. Always try the official "Export to Video" feature first—it is free, safe, and integrated directly into your existing AnyDesk client.
If that fails, FFmpeg provides a powerful, scriptable alternative for power users. Remember to avoid online converters for security reasons, and always back up your original .anydesk files before attempting conversion. Convert Anydesk Video To Mp4 -UPD-
In 2026, MP4 remains the gold standard for video. By mastering these conversion methods, you ensure that your remote support sessions, training materials, and IT audits remain accessible forever.
Converting AnyDesk recordings (which use the proprietary .anydesk format) to MP4 is not directly supported by a "Save As" button within the software, as there is currently no official built-in conversion tool. To convert these files, you can use the following methods: Recommended Conversion Methods
Screen Recording (Most Reliable): Open the recording in the AnyDesk player, then use a third-party screen recorder like OBS Studio or Debut Video Capture to record the playback session as it runs on your screen.
Built-in Player Playback: You must use the AnyDesk client itself to view the .anydesk files; they cannot be opened by standard media players like VLC or Windows Media Player without being re-recorded.
Cloud-Based Converters: Some users attempt to use general video converters, but because the format is proprietary to AnyDesk's remote desktop protocol, these often fail unless they specifically support AnyDesk files. Technical Context
Proprietary Format: AnyDesk uses a custom format designed for high performance and low latency during remote sessions, rather than standard video encoding.
Compatibility: MP4 is the preferred target format because it offers smart compression and universal compatibility across mobile devices and computers.
Warning: Be cautious of files titled "Convert Anydesk Video To Mp4 -UPD-" found on Google Drive or third-party sites. These are often misleading or potentially malicious "wrappers" rather than legitimate software tools. How to Convert Any Desk Recorded Sessions into MP4
Converting session recordings to MP4 is a common request because AnyDesk saves recordings in its own proprietary format. Currently, AnyDesk does
offer a direct "Save As MP4" or a built-in conversion button within the software If you fear typing, use HandBrake (free): If
To get your recording into a shareable MP4 format, you can use these two reliable methods: Method 1: The Screen Recording Workaround (Recommended)
Since there is no official converter, the most common way to convert these files is to play the recording back and record it with a standard screen recorder. Open the Recording : In AnyDesk, go to Settings > Recordings and play your session file. Use a Screen Recorder : Open a recording tool like OBS Studio (free/open-source) or use the built-in Xbox Game Bar (Windows key + G). Capture and Save
: Set the recording area to full screen or the AnyDesk window, play the session from the start, and stop the screen recorder when it's done. The resulting file will be an (which can be easily remuxed to MP4). StreamYard Method 2: Professional Conversion Tools
If you have a file that isn't opening or you want to try a technical route, some users use video editors or converters that might support raw stream formats, though this is less reliable for the proprietary : A popular HandBrake open-source transcoder
that can sometimes process non-standard video streams if they use standard codecs. VLC Media Player : You can try the "Convert / Save" feature in VLC Media Player by going to Media > Convert / Save , adding your file, and selecting Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4) as the profile. StreamYard
To avoid this in the future, many users prefer to use a third-party screen recorder
the live AnyDesk session rather than relying on AnyDesk's internal recording feature, as this saves it directly to MP4. for the highest-quality recording? How to Convert Any Desk Recorded Sessions into MP4 13 Jul 2022 —
What if AnyDesk refuses to export because the file is damaged or the session was interrupted? You cannot convert a broken file, but you can re-record it.
Software needed: OBS Studio (free) or any screen capture tool.
The process:
Pros: Works for 100% of files, even corrupted ones. Cons: Time-consuming (real-time conversion); slight quality loss due to re-compression.