Trimming videos on Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in just a few steps using built-in tools or third-party applications. Whether you’re editing a family video or preparing a professional presentation, Windows 11 offers user-friendly options to cut out unnecessary parts from your videos. You don’t need to be a professional editor to get it done. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have your video trimmed in no time.
How to Trim Videos on Windows 11
Trimming videos on Windows 11 can be easily done using the Photos app or any other video editing software like VLC Media Player. Below is a detailed guide on how you can achieve this using the Photos app.
Step 1: Open the Photos App
Launch the Photos app from the Start menu or by typing “Photos” in the search bar.
The Photos app is a built-in application in Windows 11 that not only manages your photos but also allows you to edit videos, making it a versatile tool for multimedia management.
Step 2: Import Your Video
Click on “New Video” and then select “New Video Project.” Import the video you want to trim by clicking on “Add” and choosing “From this PC.”
Importing your video into the Photos app is essential as it prepares the video file for trimming. Make sure your video is in a compatible format like MP4 or WMV.
Step 3: Drag Video to the Storyboard
Drag the imported video file down to the “Storyboard” section at the bottom of the screen.
The Storyboard is where most of your video editing will happen. By placing your video here, you can start making cuts and edits.
Step 4: Trim the Video
Click on the video in the Storyboard and then select “Trim” from the menu. Adjust the sliders to select the portion of the video you want to keep.
Trimming lets you cut out unnecessary parts of your video. The sliders are intuitive—just move them to the start and end points of the section you wish to keep.
Step 5: Save Your Edited Video
Once you’re satisfied with the trimmed section, click “Finish Video” and choose your desired video quality before saving it to your computer.
Saving your edited video is crucial as it finalizes your work. You can choose different video quality settings depending on your needs, ensuring you have a polished final product.
After you complete the action, your video will be saved on your computer in the selected format and quality, with the unwanted parts trimmed out. This new video file can then be used for whatever personal or professional purpose you need.
Tips for Trimming Videos on Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts in the Photos app for quicker editing.
- Backup Original Video: Always keep a backup of the original video to prevent accidental loss of important footage.
- Experiment with Formats: Try different video formats to see which works best for your needs, especially if compatibility is an issue.
- Preview Often: Continuously preview your edits to ensure you’re trimming the right sections.
- Check Video Quality: Make sure to double-check the video quality settings before saving to get the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other apps to trim videos on Windows 11?
Yes, besides the Photos app, you can use third-party software like VLC Media Player or Adobe Premiere Pro for more advanced editing features.
Is trimming videos on Windows 11 free?
Yes, using the Photos app to trim videos is completely free, but some third-party applications might require a purchase.
Can I trim videos of any length?
Generally, yes. However, extremely large videos might require more powerful hardware or software to edit efficiently.
Will trimming affect the video quality?
No, trimming itself doesn’t affect the video quality. However, saving the video in a lower resolution might.
Can I undo my trims if I make a mistake?
Yes, in the Photos app, you can undo changes before you finalize and save the video. Always keep a backup just in case.
Summary
- Open the Photos app.
- Import your video.
- Drag video to the Storyboard.
- Trim the video.
- Save your edited video.
Conclusion
Trimming videos on Windows 11 is a breeze once you get the hang of it. Whether you’re using it for personal memories or a professional project, the built-in tools like the Photos app make it accessible for everyone. While there are more advanced tools available, starting with the basics is an excellent way to build your confidence in video editing. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you refine your skills, the better you’ll become at deciding which parts of a video to keep and which to cut.
If you’re looking to explore further, consider experimenting with other editing tools to add transitions, effects, and even music to your videos. The digital world offers a playground of creativity; it’s up to you to explore and make the most of it. So, dive in and start trimming those videos on Windows 11 today!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.