Converting audio and video between different formats is something that can be complicated, even impossible, depending on what tools we have to do it. It is true that in the era of streaming it is a less common operation, it is also true that certain workflows will lead us to do it several times a day. Whether it is a one-time conversion or something recurring, being able to have the best tool for the task is punctual. So let’s talk about Permute, the converter with which it is only necessary to drag and drop.
Almost no interface, only a window where to drag the files
When we open Permute for the first time, we may be struck by the fact that its interface barely shows any information. In fact, it is no wonder, all we have to do to convert a video or audio file is drag it to the window, press Command (⌘) + S and wait for the process to complete. That easy.
After a few minutes, depending on the size and format, both of origin and destination, of the file that we are transforming, we will find the file already converted next to the original, ready for us to move or use as it suits us best.
For me, Permute bases its success on three pillars: speed, efficiency and ease of use. Speed is one of the most important factors when choosing one or the other converter. Without wanting to compare all the apps available on the market, nor the performance when converting between the hundreds of possible formats, I have to say that in the tests carried out, mainly in videos in mp4 and H.265 format, I have noticed up to a 50% faster than other alternatives.
Speed is of little use to us if the computer is unusable while we carry out the conversion. Converting from one format to another can represent a significant effort for our machine. In this sense, Permute offers us a setting to scale how many resources the app can use. Divided in Low, Half, High or Ultra, we can choose the profile that suits us best. It is true that the duration of the conversion will increase, but at least we can continue using the computer while. In the end, it is of little use to us to convert a certain movie in just 45 minutes if during that time the Mac does not respond to anything else.
The third pillar is ease of use. This point goes beyond just dragging and dropping to create a conversion. It lies mainly in the large collection of conversion profiles that the app offers us. On its first startup, Permute invites us to select devices. The list is really long, from the iPhone 8 to the Apple TV 4K through Android phones, televisions, consoles, etc. Once chosen, these will be the formats to which we can choose to convert the content.
With this approach we do not need to know what is the ideal resolution for an iPhone 13 Pro or what is the best audio format for the third generation Apple TV, simply we choose the device and the app takes care of the rest. Do we need more customization? We can customize almost any variable.
Whether we need to convert audio or video files on a regular basis or we just want to have a tool for those moments in which we have to change the format of a file, Permute is one of the best options. An app that is sold by one-time purchase in the MacApp Store for 14.99 euros. An app where we just drag the file to convert and wait, it’s that easy.