How to Trim Videos Using Built-in Windows Tools

Sometimes, you need to trim a video to remove unnecessary parts or shorten its duration. Fortunately, Windows offers convenient built-in tools for video editing, allowing you to do this without installing third-party software. In this article, we'll go over how to trim videos using the default Windows applications.

Using the "Photos" App in Windows 10 and Windows 11

Despite its name, the "Photos" app also comes with basic video editing features. It’s one of the easiest ways to trim a video on Windows.

Step 1: Open the Video in the "Photos" App

  • Locate your video file in File Explorer and right-click on it.
  • Select "Open with" and choose "Photos".

Step 2: Enable Editing Mode

Once the video is open, click on the "Edit & Create" button on the top toolbar, and select "Trim" from the drop-down menu.

Step 3: Select the Desired Portion of the Video

Use the sliders to set the start and end points of the segment you want to keep. You can preview the changes in real-time by pressing the play button.

Step 4: Save the Trimmed Video

After adjusting the boundaries, click "Save a copy". The trimmed video will be saved as a new file without altering the original.

Trimming Videos Using the "Movies & TV" App

Another built-in tool for trimming videos is the "Movies & TV" app. It features a straightforward interface that allows you to quickly cut out unwanted sections.

Step 1: Open the Video in the "Movies & TV" App

  • Double-click the video file to open it in the default "Movies & TV" player.

Step 2: Access the Trim Tool

Click the pencil icon at the bottom right corner and select "Trim".

Step 3: Adjust the Video Boundaries

Drag the markers on the timeline to select the part of the video you want to keep. Click "Done" once you have made your selection.

Step 4: Save Your Trimmed Video

Click "Save as" and choose where to save the new video file.

Benefits of Using Built-in Windows Tools

  • Convenience: No need to install additional software.
  • Speed: Simple steps let you trim videos quickly without complex settings.
  • Safety: Original files remain untouched; changes are saved as a new copy.