Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.MKV
File Type
Matroska Video File
Category
Video
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .mkv file format
The MKV file format is a flexible, open standard video file format, a container format that can hold an unlimited number of video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks inside a single file. It is intended to serve as a universal format for storing common multimedia content, like movies or TV shows. U…
File extension
.MKV
File type
Matroska Video File
Category
Video
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .mkv file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .mkv.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .mkv file?
File extension details and usage information
The MKV file format is a flexible, open standard video file format, a container format that can hold an unlimited number of video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks inside a single file. It is intended to serve as a universal format for storing common multimedia content, like movies or TV shows. Unlike formats like AVI or MP4, MKV is not limited to a specific video or audio compression method. It can support virtually any codec, making it highly adaptable. This flexibility allows for features like multiple audio tracks (for different languages), subtitles, chapter markers, and metadata, all within a single file. MKV files are often used for storing high-definition video content, including Blu-ray rips, due to their ability to handle large file sizes and multiple streams of data. The format is designed to be future-proof, with a focus on extensibility and support for new technologies as they emerge. The Matroska container is also the base for other multimedia formats like MKA (audio) and MKS (subtitles).
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .mkv files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .mkv files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .mkv file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .mkv file.
Why can't I open a .mkv file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .mkv format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .mkv files
To open a .mkv file, use software that supports this file format.
- VLC Media Player
- MPC-HC (Media Player Classic - Home Cinema)
- PotPlayer
- KMPlayer
- DivX Player
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .mkv file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.