Format overview
What is an MTS file?
MTS is a filename extension used by AVCHD camcorders for MPEG-2 transport-stream media. The video is usually H.264/AVC, accompanied by AC3 or PCM audio. Cameras normally store the clips inside an AVCHD folder structure with playlists, clip information, and metadata.
M2TS is closely related and is common after clips are imported, copied, or used in Blu-ray media. A bare clip can play without every sidecar file, but some camera metadata and spanning information may be lost.
Compatibility
MTS playback and editing
Current media players can open many MTS files, but editing performance depends on the H.264 profile, frame rate, interlacing, chroma sampling, and the editor. Long-GOP AVCHD is efficient for recording but can be demanding on a timeline.
Copy the complete camera folder before editing. That preserves metadata and helps software reconnect clips that span multiple files.
Practical use
When should you convert MTS?
Keep the original MTS files as camera masters. Create ProRes, DNxHR, or another editing-friendly output when the NLE cannot decode the source reliably or needs smoother seeking. Use MP4 when the goal is ordinary playback rather than editing.
For Blu-ray M2TS content, use the Blu-ray workflow when you need disc titles, tracks, chapters, or protection handling instead of treating one stream as the whole disc.