How can I turn MP4 files into a DVD that plays in a regular DVD player?

Make sure you distinguish between a data DVD and a video DVD. Simply burning the MP4 files as data will only work if your particular player supports MP4 playback. For maximum compatibility with older standalone players, you need to author a DVD-Video disc, which usually means converting the files as part of the authoring process rather than using a basic file-burning app.

You can use HandBrake for general video conversion, but it doesn’t create a playable DVD by itself. Also, consider keeping the original MP4 files on an external drive with a second backup. DVDs hold relatively little data and the conversion can reduce quality, so physical discs are mainly worthwhile if you specifically want to watch the series on a DVD player.

Use a DVD-authoring program such as DVDStyler, DVD Flick, WinX DVD Author, or Ashampoo Burning Studio Free. These programs convert the MP4 files into the proper DVD-Video structure, let you create menus if you want, and then burn and finalize the disc so a normal DVD player can read it. DVDStyler is a popular free choice, though it’s a good idea to save your project regularly.