Our verdict: Format Factory packs a video converter, audio converter, disc ripper, PDF tools and a screen recorder into one free program. It covers almost any one-off conversion, but the installer is served over plain HTTP and you should read every setup screen carefully. People who only convert video get a cleaner experience with HandBrake or Shutter Encoder.
About Format Factory
Format Factory is a long-running freeware program from the developer Free Time. It converts between popular video, audio and image formats, including WebP and HEIC, and can rip Blu-ray and DVD discs to video files and music CDs to audio files.
Beyond conversion it includes simple tools to clip, join, split, crop and remove logos from video, mix and join audio, merge PDFs and convert PDFs to text, Word, Excel or images. It can also unpack ZIP, RAR and 7z archives, record the screen and download videos from some sites. Current versions are 64-bit only; an older 32-bit build is still offered.
What it does well
- Video, audio and image conversion. Converts between popular formats, with presets for phones and other devices.
- Disc ripping. Rips Blu-ray and DVD discs to video files and music CDs to audio.
- Video tools. Clips, joins, splits, crops and removes logos from video files.
- PDF tools. Joins PDFs and converts them to TXT, DOC, Excel or images.
- Damaged file repair. Attempts to repair damaged video and audio files.
Who it is for
Good fit
Home users who want one free tool for occasional video, audio, image and PDF conversions.
Look elsewhere
People who want a minimal, offer-free installer or fine control over encoder settings.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Huge range of formats and tools in one app
- Rips DVD, Blu-ray and audio CDs
- Free for commercial use
Cons
- Installer is downloaded over plain HTTP, not HTTPS
- Setup and the app may show partner offers and promotions
- Cluttered interface with limited encoder control
How to install Format Factory
Download from the official pcfreetime.com page only, not from mirror sites. Read every installer screen and decline any extra software or browser changes you did not ask for. The download servers use plain HTTP, so download it on a trusted network and run a virus scan before installing.
Questions about Format Factory
Is Format Factory free?
Yes. The developer states it is free and may be used for any purpose, including commercial use.
Is Format Factory safe to install?
Download it only from pcfreetime.com and go through the installer slowly, declining any extra offers. The download link is not HTTPS, so avoid installing it on untrusted networks.
Does Format Factory work on 32-bit Windows?
Current versions are 64-bit only. The official site still links an older 32-bit version.
