Open source and self hostable/private file converter

Original Article ↗ Hacker News Discussion ↗

Role of Vert vs Existing Tools (ffmpeg, ImageMagick, etc.)

  • Many see Vert as “just a GUI/front-end” to ffmpeg/libvips/pandoc and question why it’s front-page worthy.
  • Supporters argue the main value is ease-of-use: drag-and-drop, no install, simple “convert X to Y” instead of complex CLI commands.
  • Some point out there are already GUIs for ffmpeg and image tools, but others respond that a zero-install web app is still significantly easier for non-technical users.

Web App vs Local/Desktop Tools

  • Critics argue local apps are faster, more pleasant, avoid unnecessary upload/download, and are better for privacy.
  • Defenders highlight:
    • Users on locked-down corporate machines who can’t install software.
    • Temporary or unfamiliar platforms (e.g., shared computers, work laptops).
    • Non-technical family members who will never use ffmpeg directly.
  • Some run such tools on home servers for family use, treating them as shared network utilities.

Architecture & Technology

  • Vert uses ffmpeg (WASM and/or server), libvips (WASM) for images, and pandoc for documents; video often goes through a remote job server but can be configured differently.
  • WASM-based conversion is praised for privacy but noted to be slower, memory-limited, and less suitable for large/bursty video workloads.
  • Missing formats (e.g., HEIC) are attributed to WASM build constraints and patent issues.

Security, Privacy & Malware Concerns

  • A major motivation is replacing shady “free file converter” sites that have been documented injecting malware.
  • Self-hostable FOSS is seen as a safer family/corporate option.
  • Some worry that any web front-end is itself a malware vector; others counter that trusted, open-source hosting mitigates this.

Licensing, Attribution & Analytics

  • Vert is AGPL-licensed; commenters see this as appropriate for closing the SaaS loophole but warn operators to understand AGPL obligations.
  • Multiple comments stress proper credit to underlying libraries; Vert’s later addition of a “Libraries” section is noticed.
  • Auto-enabled analytics (Plausible) hidden in settings is criticized as eroding trust; some want this disclosed prominently.

Feature Requests & Limitations

  • Requested: yt-dlp integration, HEIC/HEIF support, font conversion, robust presets/filters for advanced video workflows.
  • Some report specific errors (e.g., video conversion failures) and note ffmpeg CLI remains more reliable and powerful for heavy or specialized tasks.