Published on May 16, 2025 5 min read

iRiver Video Fix: How to Convert to MP4, WMV, AVI, or FLV

When you're trying to load a video onto your iRiver player and the file won’t play, it's usually due to a format issue. Most iRiver models don’t support every video type by default, preferring MP4, WMV, AVI, or FLV formats. If you’ve encountered this problem, don't worry—you don't need to purchase new software or hire a technician. All you need is a reliable video converter. The tools below are easy to use and support all the main formats compatible with iRiver.

This guide keeps things simple—no jargon, no fluff. Follow these clear steps on Windows or Mac to convert your videos quickly and correctly.

How to Convert Video to MP4/WMV/AVI/FLV for iRiver?

Use HandBrake to Convert Video for iRiver

HandBrake is a free, open-source tool available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s one of the most reliable options for converting to MP4, which is the safest choice for iRiver playback.

1. Download HandBrake from handbrake.fr and install it.
2. Launch the app and click “Open Source” to add your video file.
3. In the “Summary” tab, select MP4 as the format.
4. Click the “Video” tab. Set the video codec to H.264, which is best for compatibility.
5. Adjust resolution if necessary. Reducing it can facilitate playing on smaller iRiver screens—use 320x240 or similar.
6. Select a place to save the file by clicking "Browse."
7. Click "Start Encode" to begin converting.

HandBrake does not support WMV or FLV as output but works well with MP4. It allows control over size, bitrate, and resolution. While it may lack flashy branding, it is highly effective.

VLC Media Player for Format Conversion

VLC is more than a video player—it can also convert files. It supports virtually every format you'll use for iRiver, including MP4, WMV, and FLV. It's available for Windows and Mac.

1. Open VLC and click “Media” > “Convert / Save.”
2. In the popup, hit “Add” and select your video file.
3. Click “Convert / Save” at the bottom.
4. Under “Profile,” choose your output format:

• “Video – H.264 + MP3 (MP4)” for MP4
• “Video – WMV + WMA (ASF)” for WMV
• “Video – FLV (FLV1 + MP3)” for FLV

5. Click “Browse” to set a file name and location.
6. Hit “Start” to begin conversion.

VLC isn’t as user-friendly as dedicated converters, but it’s free and very flexible. If you want to quickly convert a file without needing advanced controls, it’s a solid choice.

Wondershare UniConverter (Free Trial Available)

If you prefer a tool with a modern interface and advanced features, Wondershare UniConverter is worth considering. It supports MP4, WMV, AVI, FLV, and many more formats, available for both Windows and Mac.

1. Install Wondershare UniConverter from the official site.
2. Open the app and click “Add Files” to select your video.
3. At the bottom, choose your output format (MP4, WMV, AVI, or FLV).
4. You can use the gear icon next to the format to customize resolution, codec, and bitrate.
5. Click “Convert” to start.

The free trial has limits—you might get a watermark or a time cap—but it’s enough for testing. This tool also supports batch conversion and has options to transfer directly to devices, though iRiver may need to sync via its software.

Wondershare is for users who want a polished interface with clearly laid out settings. It’s also fast, which is important when converting large files.

Freemake Video Converter (Free with Optional Upgrades)

Freemake is another Windows-only converter that supports all major formats for iRiver. It’s simple, drag-and-drop based, and ideal for casual users.

1. Download Freemake Video Converter from the official site.
2. Launch the program and drag your video file into it.
3. Select a format button at the bottom (MP4, WMV, AVI, or FLV).
4. Choose from the presets (you’ll see options for mobile, tablets, etc.) or click “Edit Preset” to customize resolution and bitrate.
5. Set output location and hit “Convert.”

The free version might add a small watermark, but the output works fine on most iRiver devices. The interface is beginner-friendly. Even if you’re not tech-savvy, you can convert a video in just a few clicks.

Freemake is especially helpful if you don’t want to mess with codec settings or worry about profiles—it handles most of that for you.

Convert with Any Video Converter (Free & Paid)

Any Video Converter (AVC) is available for both Windows and Mac. It covers every major video format, offers basic editing features, and even supports downloading videos from online platforms.

1. Download the free version of Any Video Converter.
2. Launch the app and click “Add Video(s)” to bring in your files.
3. In the top-right corner, choose the output format (MP4, AVI, WMV, FLV).
4. Use the “Basic Settings” and “Video Options” tabs to adjust frame rate, bitrate, or resolution.
5. Set the output path and hit “Convert Now.”

AVC strikes a balance between power and simplicity. It also has a Pro version with extra features like GPU acceleration, but the free version is more than enough for everyday file conversion.

It's great if you need more control than VLC offers but don't want the limitations of a trial-based converter.

Conclusion

Each tool in this guide walks you through the conversion process, so you don’t need a summary. Just choose the converter that fits your comfort level—whether it’s a simple tool like Freemake, a flexible one like VLC, or a full-featured option like Wondershare. Match the output format with what your iRiver model supports, typically MP4 or WMV. Stick to lower resolutions for better playback on smaller screens. Start with a short test video before converting everything to avoid surprises and ensure smooth playback. Testing will help ensure the conversion quality meets your expectations.