Video conversion
Convert MKV to 3GP
Updated Jul 2026
MKV is a high-quality video container built for archiving and playback on modern devices, while 3GP is an old, low-bitrate format made for early mobile phones with tiny screens and slow connections. To convert, open the MKV in a converter and export it as 3GP. Doing this on your own computer means the video never has to be uploaded anywhere first.
- Extension
- .mkv
- Type
- Video
- Typically
- High-quality video containers
- Extension
- .3gp
- Type
- Video
- Typically
- Old mobile phones
- Compression
- Lossy
Convert MKV to 3GP on your own computer. Nothing uploads.
How to convert MKV to 3GP
- Open Morphjet and drag in the MKV file, or a whole folder of them, to convert several at once.
- Choose 3GP as the output format.
- Convert. The 3GP file is written to your computer, and nothing is sent over the internet.
MKV vs 3GP: what actually changes
| MKV | 3GP | |
|---|---|---|
| File size | Large, especially at HD resolution | Much smaller, built for low bandwidth |
| Quality | High, often lossless or near-lossless | Low, heavily compressed and low resolution |
| Compatibility | Good on Mac and Windows, poor on old phones | Works on old mobile phones, poor support on modern devices |
| Max resolution | Up to 4K and beyond | Limited, typically well under HD |
| Subtitles and chapters | Yes, can hold multiple tracks | No |
| Typical use today | Storing and archiving video | Legacy devices and systems that only accept 3GP |
When to convert, and when not to
Convert MKV to 3GP when you need the video to play on an old mobile phone, a legacy system, or some other device that specifically requires the 3GP format and won't accept anything newer.
Keep the MKV if you're playing the video on a Mac, Windows PC, or a phone made in the last decade or so, since 3GP throws away resolution and quality that those devices can handle just fine.
Why not just use an online converter?
Video files are often large and personal, whether it's home footage, a recording of a meeting, or something you'd rather not hand to a stranger's server just to change its format. An online converter needs you to upload the whole file, wait, then download it back. Converting on your own computer keeps the video where it already is the entire time.
Questions
Will converting MKV to 3GP lose quality?
Yes, noticeably. 3GP was designed for tiny phone screens and slow networks, so the resolution and bitrate drop a lot compared to MKV. It's a real trade for compatibility, not a neutral change.
Why would anyone still need 3GP?
Mostly for older mobile phones or embedded systems that were built before more modern formats were common and simply can't decode anything else.
Does the 3GP file keep subtitles or multiple audio tracks from the MKV?
No. 3GP doesn't support the extra subtitle and chapter tracks that MKV can hold, so those are dropped during conversion.
Can I convert MKV to 3GP without uploading the video anywhere?
Yes. A desktop app like Morphjet converts the file on your own computer, so it never has to leave your machine or pass through anyone else's server.
Should I keep the original MKV after converting?
It's a good idea. Since 3GP quality is much lower, you'll want the MKV around if you ever need a higher-quality copy again.
Morphjet converts MKV, 3GP, and 1,800+ other formats, all on your machine. Launching this July.