MakeHDR vs HandBrake for HDR video
HandBrake (and raw FFmpeg) can transcode and tag video, but they don't turn an SDR clip into real HDR — they just relabel it. MakeHDR computes a true HDR gain curve and exports genuine BT.2020 HDR (10-bit in the MakeHDR app).
See real HDR video
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This display isn't HDR — content shows at standard (SDR) brightness
| MakeHDR | HandBrake / FFmpeg | |
|---|---|---|
| Adds real HDR brightness | Yes (gain curve) | No — only tags/transcodes |
| Setup | Drop a file | Command line / presets |
| Real HDR output | PQ or HLG | Manual config |
| Hardware encode (Mac) | Built in | Manual config |
| Price | $12.99/mo or $149.99 once | Free |
HandBrake and FFmpeg are great transcoders. But to actually turn an SDR clip into true HDR — not just tag it — MakeHDR does the real conversion, no command line.