To trim a video on Windows, open it in Clipchamp, which comes with Windows 11, drag the green handles on the clip to the new start and end, and export. The MobileStudio Video Trimmer is a faster option on Windows 10 or 11: open it in Edge or Chrome, drag the handles, and download an MP4. Both are free.
The short answer
| Method | Windows version | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Video Trimmer | 10 and 11 | Quick trims, exact frames, MP4 |
| Clipchamp | 11 (download on 10) | Trimming plus other edits |
| FFmpeg | 10 and 11 | Lossless keyframe cuts, batches |
How do I trim a video on Windows in the browser?
- Open the Video Trimmer in Edge or Chrome.
- Drop in the video (MP4, MOV, or WebM).
- Drag the purple handles, or type exact start and end times. Arrow keys move a handle one frame.
- Turn on Mute or pick a Loop count if you need them.
- Click Export and save the MP4.
Nothing is uploaded. The video is processed on your PC.
How do I trim a video with Clipchamp?
- Open Clipchamp from the Start menu and create a new video.
- Import the video and drag it onto the timeline.
- Click the clip, then drag the green handles at its ends inward.
- Click Export and choose a resolution.
Microsoft explains editing in its Clipchamp guide. Clipchamp also has a split tool for cutting out a middle section; see how to cut the middle out of a video.
How do I trim a video with FFmpeg?
For a fast, lossless trim that copies the video untouched:
ffmpeg -ss 00:00:05 -to 00:00:35 -i input.mp4 -c copy output.mp4
Lossless copies can only start on a keyframe, so the start may shift by a second or so. For an exact frame, re-encode instead with -c:v libx264 -crf 20 -c:a aac. The FFmpeg documentation explains the seeking options, and our guide to trimming without losing quality explains the trade-off.
Can VLC trim a video?
VLC can record a section while playing (View > Advanced Controls, then the record button), but it's awkward and not frame-accurate. VLC is great for playback; use the trimmer or Clipchamp for cutting.
Which way is best for trimming on Windows?
- Just cut the ends: the browser trimmer.
- Also add text, music, or transitions: Clipchamp.
- Many files, no quality loss: FFmpeg with
-c copy.
If the trimmed video is still too big to send, run it through the video compressor.
How do I trim a video to an exact length on Windows?
In the browser trimmer, type the start time, then type an end time exactly 15, 30, or 60 seconds later. The selection length shows under the timeline, so you can check before exporting. That's useful for platforms with time limits, like App Store previews, which must be 15 to 30 seconds.
Why won't my iPhone video open for trimming?
It's probably HEVC, which Windows can't decode without an extension. The browser trimmer reads it directly in Edge or Chrome. Or convert it first with the MOV to MP4 converter, and see why your iPhone video won't play on Windows.
Where MobileStudio fits
The trimmer is one of our free tools. MobileStudio itself turns phone screen recordings into polished app demos. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
How do I trim a video on Windows 10?
Use the browser trimmer in Edge or Chrome, or download Clipchamp.
Does Windows 11 have a video trimmer?
Yes. Clipchamp is included and trims by dragging the clip's handles.
Can I trim a video on Windows without losing quality?
FFmpeg with -c copy is lossless but cuts at keyframes. The browser trimmer re-encodes at high quality for exact frames.
How do I trim an MP4 on Windows?
Open it in the trimmer or Clipchamp, drag the handles, and export.
Is there a free video trimmer for Windows?
Yes. The browser trimmer, Clipchamp, and FFmpeg are all free.
