How to Convert Your Legally Purchased DVD to iTunes/iPad/iPhone/iPod/Apple TV for Portability

As you are often not at home, it makes sense to convert your legally purchased DVD content into a more portable format. This guide will take you through the process of converting and syncing your DVDs to your favorite Apple devices, ensuring you can enjoy your movies on the go.

What You’ll Need

To embark on this adventure, ensure you have all the necessary tools and software:

DVD Ripping Software: Popular choices include HandBrake (free and open-source for Windows, macOS, and Linux), MakeMKV (free during the beta phase for DVDs and Blu-rays), and WinX DVD Ripper (with a free version and paid version). iTunes/iTunes app (MacOS Catalina and later)

Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s how you can convert your DVDs into a portable format:

Step 1: Gather Required Tools

Download and install your chosen DVD ripping software. Ensure you have the latest version of iTunes/iTunes app (MacOS Catalina and later).

Step 2: Rip the DVD

Using HandBrake:

Insert the DVD into your computer’s DVD drive. Open HandBrake and select your DVD drive. Choose the title you want to rip (usually the longest one). Select an appropriate preset for Apple devices (e.g., iPod, iPad). Set the destination for your file and click Start Encode.

Using MakeMKV:

Insert the DVD into your computer’s DVD drive. Open MakeMKV and select your DVD drive. Click on Open Source. Save the MKV file to your computer.

Step 3: Convert to a Compatible Format if Necessary

If you used MakeMKV, you may need to convert the MKV file to MP4 for better compatibility with iTunes and Apple devices:

Open HandBrake. Select the MKV file as the source. Choose an appropriate preset for Apple devices. Select the destination for the converted file and click Start Encode.

Step 4: Import to iTunes

On macOS Catalina and later:

Open the latest version of iTunes (or the Apple Music app) on your device. Drag the converted video file into your iTunes library. Sync your device (iPhone, iPad, iPod, or Apple TV). Press and hold on the song, then select Sync Movies. Follow the prompts to complete the sync.

On an Apple TV:

Connect your device to your TV. Open the TV app on your Apple TV. Select your movie and hit Play.

Step 5: Watch on Your Device

Your movie should now be available on the TV app on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV.

Additional Tips

Legal Considerations: Make sure you are aware of the legal implications of ripping DVDs in your country, even if you own the content. Backup: Consider backing up your files on an external drive or cloud storage for safekeeping.

By following these steps, you should be able to enjoy your DVD content on the go without a hitch!