Video editing might sound intimidating, but thanks to Windows 11, it’s easier than ever. Whether you want to trim a clip, add background music, or create content for YouTube, Windows 11 provides several built-in tools as well as third-party apps to get the job done.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to edit videos on Windows 11 step by step, even if you’re a complete beginner. By the end, you’ll know how to create polished videos without needing expensive software or years of experience.
Why Edit Videos on Windows 11?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s answer the big question: why edit videos at all?
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Polish your content – Cut out awkward pauses and mistakes.
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Tell a story – Add transitions, captions, and music.
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Create professional content – Perfect for YouTube, TikTok, or presentations.
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Personal use – Edit family videos, school projects, or travel vlogs.
Think of editing as cooking—you have raw ingredients (your video clips), but with some seasoning (editing), you turn them into a delicious final dish.
Tools Available for Video Editing in Windows 11
Windows 11 offers both built-in and third-party options:
1. Built-in Video Editor (Microsoft Photos)
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Simple, beginner-friendly.
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Lets you trim, split, add music, and apply basic effects.
2. Clipchamp (Official Microsoft App)
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Free with Windows 11.
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Offers professional-level features like templates, stock assets, and advanced editing.
3. Third-Party Editors
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Apps like Adobe Premiere Pro, Filmora, DaVinci Resolve, and Shotcut.
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Best for advanced users.
In this guide, we’ll focus mainly on Microsoft Photos and Clipchamp, since they’re free and beginner-friendly.
How to Edit Videos on Windows 11 Using Microsoft Photos
The Photos app doubles as a video editor. Here’s how to use it.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Photos
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Press Win + S and type Photos.
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Open the app from the results.
Step 2: Import Your Video
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Click on New video project.
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Give your project a name.
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Import your video by clicking Add > From this PC.
Step 3: Trim or Split Video
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To trim, select your clip → click Trim → adjust sliders → save.
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To split, select clip → choose Split → cut into sections.
Step 4: Add Music or Audio
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Click Background music → choose from the library.
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Or use Custom audio to add your own track.
Step 5: Add Text or Titles
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Select the clip → click Text.
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Choose font, style, and placement.
Step 6: Insert Filters & Motion Effects
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Apply filters to change the look.
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Use Motion to pan or zoom for dynamic effects.
Step 7: Export Your Video
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Click Finish video.
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Choose quality (1080p recommended).
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Save to your PC.
How to Edit Videos on Windows 11 Using Clipchamp
Clipchamp is Microsoft’s newer, more powerful video editor.
Step 1: Open Clipchamp
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Press Win + S and search Clipchamp.
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Launch the app (install from Microsoft Store if missing).
Step 2: Create a New Project
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Click Create a new video.
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Choose aspect ratio (16:9 for YouTube, 9:16 for TikTok).
Step 3: Import Media
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Drag and drop files into the timeline.
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Add multiple clips, images, and audio.
Step 4: Edit Your Clips
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Trim/Split – Adjust length.
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Crop/Resize – Fit to frame.
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Transitions – Add smooth changes between scenes.
Step 5: Add Text & Titles
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Choose Text tab.
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Select templates like intro titles, captions, or credits.
Step 6: Enhance with Effects
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Add filters, overlays, and animations.
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Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation.
Step 7: Add Music and Voiceovers
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Access Clipchamp’s stock music library.
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Or record a voiceover directly in the app.
Step 8: Export Your Video
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Click Export.
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Choose resolution (720p, 1080p, or 4K).
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Save or upload directly to YouTube.
Microsoft Photos vs Clipchamp: Which Should You Use?
| Feature | Photos App | Clipchamp |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Very simple | Beginner-friendly but more advanced |
| Effects & filters | Basic only | Many professional options |
| Audio tools | Limited | Rich library + voiceover |
| Export quality | Up to 1080p | Up to 4K |
| Best for | Quick edits | Professional content |
If you just need to trim and add music → Photos App.
If you want advanced edits and templates → Clipchamp.
Tips for Smooth Video Editing in Windows 11
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Organize your clips first – Keep files labeled.
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Use shortcuts – Saves time while trimming and splitting.
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Don’t overdo effects – Simplicity often looks more professional.
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Save often – Avoid losing progress.
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Experiment – The best way to learn editing is by trying.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems
1. Video Editor Not Working?
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Update Windows and the Photos/Clipchamp app.
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Restart your PC.
2. Video Lagging During Edit?
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Close other apps.
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Use lower preview quality.
3. Export Taking Too Long?
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Use a smaller resolution (720p instead of 4K).
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Free up storage space.
Conclusion
Editing videos on Windows 11 is no longer a complex task reserved for professionals. With tools like Microsoft Photos and Clipchamp, even beginners can trim, cut, add effects, and produce polished videos. Whether you’re creating a family memory reel or uploading content to YouTube, these apps give you everything you need to get started.
The best part? You don’t need expensive software—just your Windows 11 PC and a little creativity.
FAQs
1. Does Windows 11 come with a built-in video editor?
Yes! The Photos app includes a basic video editor, and Clipchamp is also bundled for free.
2. Is Clipchamp free on Windows 11?
Yes, the free version includes most tools, but premium stock content requires a subscription.
3. Can I edit 4K videos on Windows 11?
Yes, Clipchamp allows exporting in 4K if your hardware supports it.
4. Which is better: Photos or Clipchamp?
Photos is good for quick edits, while Clipchamp is better for detailed projects.
5. Do I need third-party software for advanced editing?
Only if you want professional-grade tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve.