Windows 8 is a widely used operating system with advanced features and smooth functionality. But, sometimes users may encounter an issue where they need to change the file format of any particular file. Changing the file format is essential when you need to run a specific program or application, but the file format is not compatible with it. If you are using Windows 8 and struggling to alter the file format, then you have come to the right place. In this blog, we will explain some of the easiest methods to change the file format on Windows 8.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change File Format on Windows 8
There are several reasons why you need to change the file format on Windows 8. The most common reason is that the file format of a particular file may not be supported by a program or application that you want to run. For example, if you have an audio file with an MP4 format, but your media player only supports MP3 files, then you need to change the format of your audio file. Another reason to change the file format is to compress it. Some file formats are not compressed, whereas some are. Compression helps to reduce the size of the file, making it easier to transfer via email or USB.
Method 1: Using File Explorer
If you want to change the file format on Windows 8, you can do so using the native File Explorer feature built into Windows 8. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Select the file that you want to change the format of.
2. Right-click on the file and select the ‘Rename’ option.
3. Change the extension of the file. For example, if you want to convert your MP4 audio file to MP3, change the extension from .mp4 to .mp3.
4. A pop-up window will appear. Click on the ‘OK’ button to confirm the change.
Pros:
– Quick and easy
– No need to download any third-party application
– Can change the file format of multiple files at once
Cons:
– Risky as you can accidentally change the extension of the wrong file
– It doesn’t actually convert the file, it only changes the extension
Method 2: Using Online Converters
Online file converters are another great way to change the file format on Windows 8. There are several websites available that allow you to convert your files without having to download any software. Here’s how you can convert your files using online converters:
1. Go to any online converter website such as OnlineConvert or FileZigZag.
2. Choose the file you want to convert.
3. Select the output file format that you want.
4. Wait for the conversion to finish.
5. Download the converted file.
Pros:
– No software installation required
– Supports a range of file formats
– Easy to use
Cons:
– Internet speed may affect the conversion speed
– Risky as confidential files may not be safe on a third-party website
Method 3: Using Microsoft Word
Yes, you read that right! You can change the file format of your files on Windows 8 easily using Microsoft Word. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Open Microsoft Word.
2. Click on the ‘File’ tab and select ‘Open’.
3. Browse and select the file you want to convert.
4. Click on the ‘Save As’ option and choose the format you want to save your file in.
Pros:
– No need to download any third-party software
– You can edit your file while converting it
– Supports a range of formats
Cons:
– Limited to only document files
– The process may be slower than other methods
What to Do If You Can’t Change File Format on Windows 8
Sometimes, despite following the above methods, you may still not be able to change the file format on Windows 8. In such cases, you can try the following fixes:
1. Make sure you have the required software or application installed that supports the file format you want to convert your file into.
2. Check if the file is in use by another application and close the application before changing the file format.
3. Run a malware scan on your computer, as a virus or malware may be preventing you from changing the file format.
4. Restart your computer as sometimes the issue may be a temporary glitch.
Bonus Tip
If you are converting a file to reduce its size, you can also try compressing the file using a tool like WinZip or 7-Zip. Compression helps to reduce the size of the file, making it easier to transfer or upload to the web.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I change the file format of multiple files at once?
A: Yes, the easiest way to do so is to use the File Explorer method. Select all the files you want to change and follow the steps outlined above.
Q2: Can I change the format of an image file on Windows 8?
A: Yes, you can change the format of an image file on Windows 8 using any of the above methods.
Q3: Does changing the file format reduce the file size?
A: Not necessarily. Changing the file format only changes the way the file is encoded and read by programs.
Q4: Are online file converters safe?
A: It depends on the website. Make sure you use a reputable file converter website and that your files are safe.
Q5: Can I undo a file format change?
A: Yes, you can return to the original file format by changing the extension again and confirming the action.
Final Thoughts
Changing the file format on Windows 8 might seem daunting, but with the methods mentioned in this blog, you can do so quickly and easily. Remember to always be cautious and follow the steps carefully to avoid any accidental loss of data. Choose the method that is most comfortable for you and the type of file you want to convert, and you will be good to go.{“@context”:”https://schema.org”,”@type”:”FAQPage”,”mainEntity”:[{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I change the file format of multiple files at once?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, the easiest way to do so is to use the File Explorer method. Select all the files you want to change and follow the steps outlined above. “}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I change the format of an image file on Windows 8?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, you can change the format of an image file on Windows 8 using any of the above methods. “}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Does changing the file format reduce the file size?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Not necessarily. Changing the file format only changes the way the file is encoded and read by programs. “}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Are online file converters safe?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” It depends on the website. Make sure you use a reputable file converter website and that your files are safe. “}},{“@type”:”Question”,”name”:” Can I undo a file format change?”,”acceptedAnswer”:{“@type”:”Answer”,”text”:” Yes, you can return to the original file format by changing the extension again and confirming the action. “}}]}
