Quick Note: Currently, it is not possible to directly convert Amazon Prime Video streams to MKV format due to DRM and HDCP restrictions. Third-party tools might offer workarounds. If you attempt these methods, evaluate fully and proceed cautiously.
Amazon Prime Video is a streaming video service provided by Amazon. Saving videos in MKV format is the best way to avoid wasting the high-quality video resources that Amazon Prime offers. If you prefer to download shows from Prime Video for offline viewing, this must be the perfect way.
My journey with Amazon Prime Video conversion began after I struggled with sudden black screens and account issues. I’ve had my fair share of frustration trying to convert my favorite shows into MKV for backup and offline viewing. After a knack for tinkering around with screen recording and testing diverse third-party software, I’ve learned that the process is riddled with complexities. I will explain the details in this post.
What is an MKV File?
MKV (Matroska Video) is a versatile multimedia container format that supports a broad range of audio, video, and subtitle tracks. What sets MKV apart is its ability to store high-quality video without compromising on file size or compatibility with different media players. For example, when comparing MKV with formats like MP4 and MOV, you’ll notice that MKV often offers superior support for multiple audio tracks and subtitles. For more information, feel free to refer to Prime Video transcoding basics.
Below is a 3×5 comparison table demonstrating key differences between MKV, MP4, and MOV formats:
|
Feature
|
MKV
|
MP4
|
MOV
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Video Quality
|
High, lossless potential
|
High
|
High
|
|
Audio Track Support
|
Multiple, including surround sound
|
Generally up to 2 channels
|
Limited, typically stereo
|
|
Subtitle Support
|
Robust, multiple languages
|
Limited
|
Limited
|
|
File Size
|
Efficient compression
|
Efficient
|
Less optimized
|
|
Compatibility
|
Widely supported with modern players
|
Broad, but with limitations
|
Optimized for Apple devices
|
In my testing using a mid-2022 MacBook Pro (model 2021) while watching the popular series “The Expanse,” I was impressed by the crisp video quality that MKV offered.
Can You Convert Prime Video to MKV or MP4?
In short, no. You cannot directly convert Amazon Prime Video content into another format, such as MKV. According to the latest policies as of early 2025, Prime Video subscribers are only granted the right to stream content within the confines of the Amazon app or approved devices. Plus, exporting a raw MKV/MP4 would bypass those protections may violate 17 U.S.C. §1201 in the U.S.
If you try to screen-record, protected playback paths (e.g., HDCP 1.4/2.2 for HD/UHD) and DRM can force a black screen. It means that you can't convert the downloads into other devices, and you can only watch Prime Video titles in the app for a limited period, normally 30 days. The specific rules also vary according to the type of videos, such as streaming shows, rented videos, and purchased titles.
Official guidance even calls out using HDCP-compatible HDMI for external devices.
How to Download Amazon Prime Videos into MKV Files?
Amazon Prime Video has an official app, and you can enjoy the download service here. In this section, I evaluate three main approaches from my own experience and research: Screen recording vs. downloaders vs. the official approach, each with its own set of pros and cons for downloading Amazon Prime shows into MKV format for offline viewing.
| Dimension | Official Downloads | Screen Recording | Third-party Downloaders (like KeepStreams) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use Case | Fully compliant |
|
Portable file outside app |
| Quality (HD/4K) | Matches license/device |
|
Varies |
| Audio Tracks | App-selectable | Whatever plays during capture |
|
| Subtitles | App-selectable |
|
|
| Speed |
|
Real-time (1×) | Varies with tool |
| Portability | Low | Medium | High |
| Black-screen risk | Low | Medium–High | Low |
| License/Expiry | Yes |
|
|
| Multi-device transfer | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cost | Subscription/purchases |
|
Tool fees + time |
If you just want offline playback, official downloads are the safest. For shareable snippets, screen recording often hits black screens and should be used responsibly. Downloaders promise portability to help you download the DRM-protected videos in Prime Video, but they also require users to be aware of their responsibilities when using them. Only using it for personal, non-commercial purposes is key to staying responsible.
Quick Guide on How to Download from Prime Video in MKV Format
Since the core operation steps of most reliable third-party Prime Video downloaders are fairly similar, choosing a representative tool to walk through the process will make the guide easier to follow. Here, we’ll take KeepStreams for Prime Video as an example, helping you grasp the method quickly and apply it to other similar tools if needed. Below is a detailed breakdown of how to use it to download Prime Video content in MKV format:
Download and install the downloader from the KeepStreams official website.
Select "VIP Service" on the left side and find Amazon.
Login to your own account and play the video you want to download.
Set download options in the pop-up window and click "Download Now" to download the video in MP4/MKV format.
Tips: If you want to convert the Prime Video title into MP4 format or use another video/audio codec, you can click the ☴ icon and select "Settings" > "Preferences" > "Preferred Settings" to change the general or VIP options.
FAQs
Q1. Prime Video MP4 vs. MKV: Which is better?
A1. Both MP4 and MKV formats have their merits: MP4 is widely compatible across devices and platforms, making it a practical choice for most users. Conversely, MKV offers richer support for multiple audio tracks and subtitles, beneficial for users who need a more flexible format.
In my view, the choice depends on your specific needs. If device compatibility is paramount, stick with MP4; if you require enhanced feature support, MKV might be the better option.
Q2. Do Prime Video downloads by KeepStreams expire?
A2. Based on my tests and research, Prime Video downloads facilitated by KeepStreams typically do not have expiration periods dictated by Amazon’s policies.
Q3. Can I cast downloaded videos by KeepStreams?
A3. Yes. This is because the titles' format you downloaded by KeepStreams has been output to MKV format automatically. You can find the compatible Prime Video files directly on your Windows PC or Mac and convert them into any device you like for offline viewing.
Q4. Is it legal to remove DRM from Amazon Prime Video?
A4. Removing DRM from Amazon Prime Video is generally not legal in the United States and many other countries. Despite the appeal for increased flexibility and offline usability, the act of removing DRM infringes on digital copyright laws. When you’re looking into third-party Prime Video downloaders, exercise caution to ensure the tool does not engage in any form of DRM bypass, like KeepStreams for Prime Video.
Its technical design explicitly avoids any DRM bypass tactics, instead using methods that align with platform rules to facilitate downloads. This approach eliminates the risk of technical non-compliance right from the start. If you’d like to learn more about its specific copyright compliance practices or clarify the legal boundaries of using such software, you can check out KeepStreams’ official copyright statement.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the possibility of converting Prime Video shows into MKV format and shown you how to download Amazon Prime videos in high-quality MKV files. Through my journey, alternatives like screen recording or using dedicated downloaders offer possible workarounds, yet they often compromise on quality and carry inherent risks. Tools like KeepStreams for Prime Video provide some benefits, but remember, while these alternatives exist, maintaining compliance with local laws and Amazon’s terms of use remains paramount.
Compared with recording videos from Prime Video, downloading the shows in a compatible MKV/MP4 format is definitely a better way to enjoy offline viewing. Hope this post can help you enjoy your preferred shows offline in the way you like!