Editing videos doesn’t have to be complicated, especially if you just need to trim out unnecessary parts. Whether you’re creating content for YouTube, sharing clips with friends, or simply cutting out mistakes from a recorded video, Windows 11 makes it surprisingly easy to trim videos without installing complex software. In this guide, I’ll show you step-by-step methods to trim videos using built-in Windows tools and a few free alternatives.
Why Trim Videos?
Trimming videos is one of the simplest yet most effective editing tasks. Here’s why it matters:
Remove Unwanted Sections – Cut out mistakes, long pauses, or irrelevant clips.
Reduce File Size – Smaller videos are easier to share or upload.
Focus on Important Content – Keep your viewers engaged by showing only what matters.
Professional Look – Even basic trimming can make your videos feel polished.
Method 1: Trim Videos Using the Photos App
Windows 11 comes with a built-in app that doubles as a video editor—the Photos app.
Step 1: Open the Video in Photos
Right-click your video file, select Open with > Photos.
Step 2: Click “Edit Video”
In the toolbar at the top, click Edit video > Trim.
Step 3: Adjust Start and End Points
Use the sliders to select the portion of the video you want to keep. Everything outside the selected range will be removed.
Step 4: Save the Trimmed Video
Click Save a copy to create a new trimmed version. Your original video remains untouched.
Method 2: Trim Videos Using Clipchamp (Free Windows 11 App)
Clipchamp is Microsoft’s free video editor, pre-installed on most Windows 11 PCs.
Step 1: Open Clipchamp
Search for Clipchamp in the Start menu and launch it.
Step 2: Import Your Video
Click + Create a new video, then Import media to select your file.
Step 3: Trim the Video
Drag your video to the timeline, select it, and use the trim handles on either end to cut the unwanted sections.
Step 4: Export the Video
Click Export to save your trimmed video. Choose your preferred resolution and format.
Method 3: Trim Videos Using VLC Media Player
VLC isn’t just for watching videos—it can also trim clips.
Step 1: Open VLC and Enable Advanced Controls
Go to View > Advanced Controls.
Step 2: Play Your Video
Open the video and position the playhead at the start point you want to keep.
Step 3: Start Recording
Click the Record button (red dot) to begin. Play the video until the end point, then click Record again to stop.
Step 4: Save the Clip
The trimmed segment will automatically save to your Videos folder.
Tips for Trimming Videos Effectively
Preview Before Saving – Always watch your trimmed clip to make sure nothing important is cut.
Trim Gradually – If you’re unsure, trim in small sections to avoid mistakes.
Keep Originals – Save a copy of the original video in case you need it later.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts – Apps like Clipchamp and Photos have shortcuts to speed up trimming.
Common Mistakes When Trimming Videos
Trimming Too Aggressively – Cutting essential content by accident.
Overwriting Originals – Always save as a new file if you want to preserve the original.
Ignoring Audio Sync – Make sure cuts don’t disrupt audio continuity.
Not Checking Format – Some apps export in formats that may not be compatible with other devices.
Why Use Windows 11 Tools Instead of Third-Party Apps?
No Extra Installation – Built-in tools like Photos and Clipchamp are ready to use.
Simple Interface – Perfect for beginners who don’t need advanced editing.
Safe and Reliable – No risk of downloading malware from unknown software.
Free – No hidden costs or subscriptions required.
Final Thoughts
Trimming videos on Windows 11 is quick, easy, and doesn’t require complicated software. Whether you use the Photos app, Clipchamp, or VLC, you can cut unnecessary parts, reduce file size, and create professional-looking clips with just a few clicks. Think of it like editing a highlight reel—focus on the parts that matter and remove the rest.
FAQs
1. Can I trim a video without losing quality?
Yes, using Windows 11 built-in tools like Photos or Clipchamp preserves the original quality in most cases.
2. Is Clipchamp free?
Yes, Clipchamp is free for basic trimming and editing, though premium features may require a subscription.
3. Can I trim multiple videos at once?
Not in Photos or VLC, but Clipchamp allows you to work on multiple clips in one project.
4. Does trimming a video affect the original file?
No, these tools usually save a copy, keeping the original file intact.
5. Can I trim videos in different formats (MP4, MOV, AVI)?
Yes, Windows 11 tools support most common formats, though Clipchamp and VLC have wider format compatibility.