Sometimes videos recorded on a phone or camera appear sideways or upside down. Windows 11 offers several ways to rotate a video quickly and efficiently. This guide will show you how to rotate a video in Windows 11 step by step using built-in apps, third-party software, and online tools.
📌 Summary: Key Takeaways
- Rotating videos is possible using Photos app, Clipchamp, VLC, and online editors.
- Built-in apps are free and easy for basic rotation.
- Third-party tools provide advanced editing options.
- Always save a copy of the original video before rotating.
Why Rotate Videos?
- Correct orientation of videos recorded on mobile devices.
- Improve presentation for social media or professional projects.
- Prepare video clips for editing or sharing.
Method 1: Rotate Video Using Windows 11 Photos App
The Photos app comes pre-installed in Windows 11.
Steps:
- Right-click the video file → Open with > Photos.
- Click the Edit video button at the top.
- Select Trim & Rotate or directly click Rotate.
- Each click rotates the video 90° clockwise.
- Once rotated correctly, click Save a copy.
✅ Pros: Quick, built-in, no extra software needed.
Method 2: Rotate Video Using Clipchamp
Clipchamp is a free video editor included in Windows 11.
Steps:
- Open Clipchamp from Start menu.
- Click Create a new project → Add media → Import your video.
- Drag video to timeline.
- Select the video → click Rotate in the toolbar (clockwise or counterclockwise).
- Click Export to save your rotated video.
✅ Pros: Free, more editing features, professional output options.
Method 3: Rotate Video Using VLC Media Player
VLC is a popular free media player that also rotates videos.
Steps:
- Open video in VLC.
- Go to Tools > Effects and Filters.
- Select Video Effects > Geometry.
- Check Transform → choose rotation angle (90°, 180°, 270°).
- Play video to preview.
- To save, go to Media > Convert / Save and export rotated video.
✅ Pros: Free, widely used, supports many formats.
Method 4: Rotate Video Using Online Tools
Several online editors allow quick video rotation:
- Clideo, Kapwing, Online Video Cutter
Steps:
- Visit the online tool.
- Upload your video.
- Use Rotate buttons to adjust orientation.
- Download the rotated video.
⚠️ Note: Large files may take time to upload/download, and privacy should be considered.
Method 5: Rotate Video in Third-Party Editing Software
Professional software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve allows precise rotation.
Steps (generalized):
- Import video to software.
- Select video clip in timeline.
- Use Rotate/Transform settings to adjust orientation.
- Export video in desired format.
✅ Pros: Full control over video, suitable for professional editing.
Troubleshooting Common Rotation Issues
Issue 1: Video rotates but won’t save
- Ensure you click Save a copy or Export.
- Check for write permissions in the folder.
Issue 2: Video format not supported
- Use VLC or convert the video to MP4 first.
- Some apps don’t support MOV or AVI files directly.
Issue 3: Rotation affects video quality
- Always export at original resolution.
- Use Clipchamp or VLC with high-quality export settings.
Quick Reference Table: Methods to Rotate Videos
| Method | Ease | Pros | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Photos App | Easy | Built-in, fast | Limited editing features |
| Clipchamp | Easy | Free, more options | Requires project setup |
| VLC Player | Medium | Free, supports many formats | Export step needed |
| Online Tools | Easy | Quick, no install | Privacy, file size limit |
| Professional Software | Advanced | Full control | Requires learning curve |
Pro Tips
- Always keep a backup of the original video.
- For multiple videos, batch rotation tools can save time.
- Rotate videos before editing to avoid rendering issues.
- Use keyboard shortcuts in software for faster rotation.
- Check the orientation on multiple devices before sharing.
Conclusion
Rotating videos in Windows 11 is simple and can be done using built-in apps like Photos or Clipchamp, free software like VLC, or online editors. For professional needs, third-party editing software provides full control. By following these methods, you can quickly fix video orientation issues and ensure your videos are correctly displayed on any device.
FAQs
1. Can I rotate a video without installing extra software?
Yes, the Windows 11 Photos app allows basic rotation without additional downloads.
2. Does rotating a video affect its quality?
If you save or export correctly at the original resolution, the quality remains unchanged.
3. Can I rotate multiple videos at once?
Some tools like Clipchamp or professional editors allow batch rotation; Photos app does not.
4. What video formats can I rotate on Windows 11?
Common formats like MP4, AVI, MOV are supported by most tools. VLC supports almost all formats.
5. Can I rotate a video online for free?
Yes, websites like Clideo or **Kapwing