Ripping a DVD on Mac means converting video content from a physical disc into a digital file on your hard drive. This lets you watch your collection without the disc, create backups, transfer to portable devices, and preserve aging DVDs. macOS has no built-in DVD ripper, but free applications like VLC and HandBrake handle conversion efficiently on any Mac in 2026.
DVD Ripping Tools
Method 1: Rip DVD Using VLC (Free)
Download VLC from videolan.org, insert DVD, open VLC. Go to File then Open Disc, verify DVD detected, then File then Convert/Stream. Choose MP4 H.264 output, select save location, click Save. Takes 30-90 minutes depending on DVD length and Mac speed.
Method 2: HandBrake (More Control)
HandBrake from handbrake.fr provides more control over quality, subtitles, audio tracks, and chapters. It auto-detects DVD, select title (longest is main movie), choose preset like Fast 1080p30, click Start Encode. Adjustable RF quality slider (18-22 recommended), deinterlacing, and batch queue for multiple DVDs.
Related Guides
Convert PPT Mac to PC, find USB on Mac, free up Mac storage.
Digitize Your DVD Collection
Use VLC or HandBrake to preserve DVDs as digital files.
