HandBrake
An open-source excellent encoder and DVD ripper with preset profiles for use on multiple devices.
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There are a lot of good encoders, transcoders or converters in the market. Fortunately, the best encoding programs are mostly free while many commercial programs fail to provide even the most basic tools.
Choose the best free video encoder that allows you to use multiple programs with a good GUI and best performances, producing at least H264 and handle deinterlacing effectively. See also The Basics You Need To Know About Video Encoding.