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Handbrake is the easiest to use of the bunch plus it will rip DVDs to mp4s with a wide range of options. I use all of them but prefer megui just because it gives me more control but it has a steeper learning curve. etc these are some few open source projects and freewares you may want to give a try: meGUI, Handbrake and ffCoder. If you or anybody else interested wants more control on your video encoding process like encoding to a known output file size, choice of different encoders, filters, subtitles. I think most video converter developers don't want to risk implementing some advanced features for the sake of most users so they just default to the usual bland staple of one click video converters which as barebones as they may be they serve the purpose for most users. I found myself with the same problem and most people I reckon do.
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