How to Crop a Video in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 16, 2025

Do you have a video with unwanted black bars, distracting background elements, or just too much frame space? That’s where cropping a video in Windows 11 comes in handy.

While Windows 11 doesn’t include a dedicated “crop” button in its default apps, you can still crop videos easily using built-in tools like Clipchamp or third-party editors. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through multiple ways to crop your videos — whether you want a quick fix or professional-level precision.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 includes Clipchamp, a built-in video editor, that lets you crop and resize videos.

  • You can also use VLC Media Player, Photos app (legacy editor), or third-party software for advanced cropping.

  • Cropping is different from trimming — cropping adjusts the frame size, while trimming shortens the video length.

  • Several free and paid tools exist depending on your needs.

Why Would You Want to Crop a Video?

Here are common reasons to crop a video in Windows 11:

  • Remove black borders around videos.

  • Focus on the main subject by cutting out distractions.

  • Adjust the aspect ratio (e.g., 16:9 for YouTube, 9:16 for TikTok).

  • Improve aesthetics for social media uploads.

  • Fix recording mistakes, like showing too much background.

👉 Think of cropping like zooming in on the best part of a photo — but for videos.

Method 1: Crop a Video Using Clipchamp (Built-in App)

Windows 11 comes with Clipchamp, Microsoft’s free video editor. It’s the easiest way to crop videos without extra downloads.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + S and type Clipchamp, then open it.

  2. Click Create a new video.

  3. Drag and drop your video into the timeline.

  4. Select the video, then click the Crop/Fill option in the preview window.

  5. Adjust the frame to remove unwanted areas.

  6. Choose your preferred aspect ratio (e.g., 16:9, 1:1, 9:16).

  7. Once satisfied, click Export > Save as MP4.

✅ Best for: Beginners who want quick cropping with no extra software.

Method 2: Crop a Video in Photos App (Legacy Editor)

Windows 11’s legacy Photos app still includes a simple video editor (though limited compared to Clipchamp).

Steps:

  1. Right-click your video and select Open with > Photos.

  2. Click the Edit & Create option in the top menu.

  3. Choose Edit with Video Editor.

  4. Create a New video project and add your video.

  5. Use the crop/zoom tool to adjust framing.

  6. Save/export your cropped video.

👉 Works fine for basic edits, but Microsoft is replacing this with Clipchamp.

Method 3: Crop a Video Using VLC Media Player

VLC isn’t just for playing videos — it can crop them too.

Steps:

  1. Download and install VLC Media Player (if you don’t have it).

  2. Open your video in VLC.

  3. Go to Tools > Effects and Filters > Video Effects > Crop.

  4. Enter values (pixels) for top, bottom, left, and right to crop.

  5. To save permanently:

    • Go to Media > Convert/Save.

    • Add your video, click Convert/Save, then Start.

⚠️ VLC cropping requires manual input and isn’t as user-friendly as Clipchamp.

Method 4: Crop Videos with Third-Party Editors

If you want more flexibility, third-party apps may suit you better.

Recommended Options:

  • Filmora – Beginner-friendly with templates.

  • Adobe Premiere Pro – Professional editing with full crop/resize control.

  • DaVinci Resolve – Free, advanced editor with precise cropping tools.

  • Movavi Video Editor – Lightweight and simple.

👉 Best for content creators, professionals, or users needing advanced editing features.

Cropping vs. Trimming vs. Resizing: What’s the Difference?

Feature Cropping Trimming Resizing
Purpose Removes parts of video frame Cuts beginning or end of video Changes overall resolution/ratio
Example Remove black borders Shorten a 5 min clip to 2 min Change 1080p video to 720p
Best For Focusing on subject, social media Removing unwanted sections Reducing file size, fitting screens

Tips for Cropping Videos in Windows 11

  • Always save a copy of the original video before editing.

  • Use the right aspect ratio for your platform:

    • YouTube → 16:9

    • Instagram → 1:1 or 4:5

    • TikTok/Reels → 9:16

  • Don’t over-crop — it can reduce video quality.

  • For large projects, consider a professional editor instead of built-in tools.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Video looks blurry after cropping → Try exporting in higher resolution.

  • Clipchamp not opening → Update from the Microsoft Store.

  • VLC crop not saving → Use Convert/Save option after cropping.

  • Black bars still visible → Double-check aspect ratio before exporting.

Conclusion

Cropping a video in Windows 11 is simple once you know the right tool:

  • Use Clipchamp for quick, built-in cropping.

  • Try VLC or Photos app for basic edits.

  • Go for third-party software if you need professional control.

👉 Whether you’re fixing a home video, editing for YouTube, or making TikToks, these methods will help you crop like a pro.

FAQs About Cropping Videos in Windows 11

1. Does Windows 11 have a built-in video crop tool?
Yes, via Clipchamp, which comes pre-installed.

2. Can I crop videos without losing quality?
Yes, but cropping too much can reduce sharpness since pixels are removed.

3. Is Clipchamp free to use?
Yes, the basic version is free and works well for casual editing.

4. Can I crop videos for Instagram or TikTok in Windows 11?
Yes, Clipchamp lets you set aspect ratios like 1:1 or 9:16.

5. What’s the easiest method for beginners?
Using Clipchamp — it’s built-in, free, and user-friendly.

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