Input Files:  

Xilisoft Video Converter supports popular formats like WMA, MOV, AVI, MP4 (most Apple products), MPEG 1 and 2 and VOB (for DVDs.) It also supports more unusual formats like M4V, RM, 3GP, SWF and more.

When uploading VOB files, usually ripped from a personal DVD or MiniDVD we suggest using the DirectShow feature. We found this to be easier and presented better results.

Xilisoft can also convert audio files like MP3, WMA, AAC and CDs. However, it will not convert protected audio files.

The only file format we felt Xilisoft Video Converter was missing was FLV, or Flash, a file format most commonly used on video sharing sites like YouTube. However, Xilisoft Corporation does have a separate program designed specifically for downloading YouTube videos for about twenty dollars.

Output Files:  

Xilisoft Video Converter supports more than two dozen output formats including WMV, AVI, MOV, MP4, FLV and more. We really liked that you could select your target for specific media players like iPod, iPhone, Apple TV, PSP, Blackberry and Zune. Hopefully in future versions they will include selections for other popular media players like Creative Zen and Archos.

Although, Xilisoft claims to support output to RM (RealMedia) we were unable to get this feature to work properly in our tests. However, we concluded that most people are trying to convert from RM not to RM.

Features:  

The Xilisoft download includes two applications, the main Video Converter and the Wizard. The Wizard is excellent for novices unfamiliar with video conversion. It will walk you through the process step-by-step. However, if you want a little more technical control you have to use the main application.

The Xilisoft Video Converter main application allows you to batch convert files, adjust audio and video codecs, audio and video bitrate, sample rate, and more. However, Xilisoft Video Converter does not provide any tools to edit your video like adjusting contrast or brightness.

Ease of Use:  

The Xilisoft Video Converter is extremely easy-to-use and even the most inexperienced person can convert their favorite home videos and DVDs to their portable media player. We suggest novice users stick to the default settings and avoid changing advanced settings.

Quirks we encountered in previous versions of Xilisoft Video Converter are no longer present.

Help and Support:  

Xilisoft Video Converter includes an in-program help guide, online FAQs and email support. Our email inquiry was answered in less than a day. However, we would like to see Xilisoft include a search function in the user guide and a more comprehensive introduction to the program.

Much like our #1 product, Xilisoft is a comprehensive video conversion tool that will satisfy the needs of most users. The interface is easy to use and your selection of input and output options is comprehensive.

However, we still suggest you read our review of the #1 video converter, AVS Video Converter.