Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
If you mean converting a DVD into a video file that plays on a 3D-capable device, HandBrake is a free option for supported, accessible discs. If you mean creating stereoscopic 3D—such as side-by-side video—a DVD ripper alone does not do that. Ripping and encoding make a digital copy; they do not add the separate image views required for stereoscopic depth.
First, decide what you mean by “3D video file”
The phrase can describe two different goals:
- A regular digital video file for a 3D-capable display: This is a DVD-to-video conversion. The display may be 3D-capable, but converting the DVD does not give its footage stereoscopic depth.
- A stereoscopic video file: This stores or delivers distinct views for the left and right eyes, in a format such as side-by-side. Creating it is a separate conversion task, not an ordinary DVD rip.
That distinction determines which software can help. A ripper or transcoder can make a digital file from a supported source; it should not be described as a 3D converter unless it can create the specific stereoscopic format you need.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
The Amazing Spider-Man - Blu-ray + DVD + 3D | $9.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Spider-Man: Homecoming - Blu-ray + 3D + Digital | $11.69 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Terminator 2 3D Blu-Ray | $38.50 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Pixels - Blu-ray + 3D | $9.55 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Avatar: Fire and Ash - 4K + Blu-ray + Digital | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Best free choice for converting an accessible DVD: HandBrake
HandBrake’s source-format documentation lists DVD sources, and its About page describes it as a free, open-source video transcoder that outputs formats including MP4, MKV, and WebM. It is a practical choice for turning a DVD it can read into a conventional video file—not for adding stereoscopic 3D.
HandBrake always converts video rather than passing it through unchanged. Its standard presets are encoding and compatibility options, not documented 3D conversion presets. The documentation describes Fast 1080p30 as a broadly compatible default, but that does not guarantee playback on every device or make the output stereoscopic. See the official preset documentation and test the result on your intended player.
#1 Best Overall
- A teenage Peter Parker grapples with both high school and amazing super-human crises as his alter-ego Spider-Man.
Convert a DVD with HandBrake
- Open the source. In HandBrake, open the DVD source. The app scans it and lists available titles.
- Select the intended title. DVDs can contain the feature, episodes, extras, or other programs as separate titles. Check the title and preview details so you do not encode the wrong content. HandBrake’s Quick Start guide explains the source-selection workflow.
- Choose an output preset. Pick a preset suited to your intended playback device. A preset can guide ordinary video encoding; it does not create 3D.
- Choose a destination and file name. Select where to save the output and choose a supported container such as MP4 or MKV.
- Review audio and subtitles. Check which tracks are selected and whether subtitles are included in the way you need. HandBrake documents DVD subtitle inputs such as VOBSUB and closed captions, but output depends on subtitle type and settings. Consult its subtitle documentation.
- Start encoding, then test playback. Confirm that the file opens and that the picture, audio, and subtitle behavior meet your needs on the actual device.
Why HandBrake is not a stereoscopic DVD converter
Encoding changes video into a chosen output format; it does not by itself create distinct left-eye and right-eye views. A standard DVD rip therefore remains ordinary video, even if you play it on a 3D-capable screen. The available guidance does not establish a current, free, end-to-end workflow that takes a DVD and produces a stereoscopic file.
MakeMKV is sometimes mentioned in discussions of disc conversion, but a forum response distinguishes remuxing streams from encoding them into side-by-side 3D. Treat that as forum guidance rather than formal product documentation: MakeMKV forum discussion. Do not assume a remuxer or ordinary ripper can create the stereoscopic format you want.
Rank #2
- Spider-Man [Tom Holland] begins to navigate his new identity as the web-slinging super hero under the watchful eye of his mentor Tony Stark.
Copy protection and permission still matter
HandBrake’s official documentation states: “HandBrake does not defeat or circumvent copy protection of any kind.” Its source documentation also warns that protected discs may not work. That means support for DVD sources is not a promise that every DVD can be opened. HandBrake Project documentation
Software capability also does not establish that copying a particular disc is permitted. Rules vary by jurisdiction and circumstances; consult authoritative guidance for your location if you need legal advice. This article does not determine whether a specific copy is lawful.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Return to Pandora for the third chapter of Marine turned Na’vi leader Jake Sully and his family. Reeling from one death, the Sullys set out to prevent another — aided by the Wind Traders. But on the way, they’re attacked by the Ash People, who blame Eywa for their ravaged home. Warning: Some flashing-lights scenes may affect photosensitive viewers.
Rank #4
- An unlikely group of former '80s video game champions step up to save the world from an alien invasion in this visually spectacular action-adventure.
Rank #3
Which option fits your goal?
| Your goal | What to use or expect | Important limit |
|---|---|---|
| Make an ordinary digital file from a DVD HandBrake can read | HandBrake can encode to common containers including MP4, MKV, or WebM. | It does not circumvent copy protection, and it re-encodes video. |
| Make the file play on a particular device | Choose a suitable HandBrake preset and test the result on that device. | Compatibility depends on the device and settings; a preset is not a 3D conversion. |
| Create stereoscopic output such as side-by-side | Use a separate workflow specifically verified to create the required format from your source. | No current free, end-to-end DVD-to-stereoscopic solution is established here. |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
