How to change a video's format using Photos and Clipchamp in Windows 11

If you've ever wanted to change the format of a video or just need to edit it easily on your PC with Windows 11, you've probably encountered some of the tools included in the system and perhaps haven't taken full advantage of their features. Among them, the option of "Save as" in the Photos app and using Clipchamp, Microsoft's official video editor. There are also other options worth considering that can make your job much easier, whether you're a beginner or already experienced in video editing.

Throughout this article, you'll discover in a clear, organized, and comprehensive way how you can trim, save, and convert videos in Windows 11 using only the tools you have at hand or by installing free and accessible programs. We will also give you Tricks to troubleshoot common issues, workarounds if you need more features, and details on the key differences between cropping footage and visually cropping a video. This way, you can always maintain control over your files, adapt them to any needs, and share them without any hassle.

Change video formats in Windows 11 using “Save As” in Photos

The Windows 11 Photos app is a great option for those who don't want to hassle with downloading extra software. Trimming or adjusting a video is a matter of just a few clicks, and the best part is that you can save the new version in the format that best suits you, without losing the original file.

• Open the video in Photos: Right-click the file in File Explorer, select “Open With,” and choose “Photos.”
• Cut out what you need: Once opened, use the "Trim" option (top left). You can move the sliders to decide which fragment to keep and which to delete.
• Save your new video: Click “Save As” to export your trimmed version. The original file will remain intact, and the modified clip will be available in the folder of your choice.

This method is perfect for quick and easy cropping, and ensures you're working in formats like MP4, one of the most widely supported formats currently.

Trim and convert videos with Clipchamp on Windows 11

For those who want a little more editing, Clipchamp has become the go-to editor for Windows 11. Not only can you trim videos, but you can also make small montages, add effects, change the output format, and much more. Plus, Clipchamp works both in its app and online, which is ideal if you work across multiple devices.

• Access Clipchamp: Open the app or go to the website and sign in with your Microsoft account.
• Create your project: Click “Create a new video” and import your files.
• Edit and crop: Drag the video to the timeline, select it, and use the cursor to adjust the duration using the sidebars.
• Change the export format: When exporting, you can choose from a variety of resolutions and formats, allowing you to adapt your video for any use or device.

Clipchamp stands out for its simplicity and versatility, ideal for those who want to adjust the format and size of their videos without technical complications.

Legacy Photos and other built-in video editing tools

In addition to the modern Photos app and Clipchamp, Windows 11 includes Legacy Photos, which brings a more classic and easy-to-use video editor if you like traditional interfaces. Allows you to trim, add titles, modify playback speed, add effects, and save the result in the desired format.

• Open Legacy Photos from the Windows search bar.
• Access the Video Editor and create a new project.
• Import videos and trim them by adjusting the sliders.
• Save using the “Export Video” button, selecting the quality and format you prefer.

This app is ideal for simple editing tasks and when the modern version of Photos is giving you trouble.

Solutions if the cropping function fails in Windows 11 Photos

Some users have reported that sometimes Crop controls are grayed out or don't work properly in Photos. If this happens to you, try these steps:

• Restart the Photos app: Please completely close and reopen the app before trying again.
• Run the Microsoft Store troubleshooter: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and run the one apps from the Store.
• Repair or reinstall the application: From Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find Photos, access advanced options, and tap Repair or Reset if necessary.
• Update Photos from the Microsoft Store: Check for new versions that fix bugs.
• Use Movies & TV: Open the video in this app, tap the pencil icon, and choose “Crop” to get a similar result.

These alternatives usually solve most clipping problems and allow you to continue working without losing time.

Alternative methods to crop and convert videos

If you're looking for even more features, there are many free editors like Mini Tool Movie Maker which stand out for their intuitive interface and the ability to export without watermarks. In addition to cropping and formatting, you can add effects, transitions, adjust speed, and more.

• Download and install MiniTool MovieMaker from its official website.
• Import your files and drag them to the timeline for editing.
• Select the clip and drag the ends to trim.
• Under “Export,” choose the format, resolution, and destination folder.

MiniTool MovieMaker is free for basic projects and doesn't add watermarks to HD videos, which sets it apart from other similar programs.

Other useful Windows 11 alternatives and tricks for video

Beyond the main apps, Windows 11 allows for some additional tricks like editing videos directly in PowerPoint or using players like VLC for quick cuts:

• Power point: Insert your video into a slide, use the playback tab to trim the beginning and end, and then save the result with “Save Media As.”
• VLC MediaPlayer: Use record mode to create a new clip from any part of the video.

These resources will help you out of more than one tight spot when you don't have specific apps or want a quick solution.

Differences between cropping footage and cropping visually

When talking about editing videos, it is essential distinguish between cropping footage and visually cropping a videoHere's a simple explanation:

• Trim footage: This involves removing parts of the video to shorten its length or leave only the necessary fragments. This is common when you want to remove the beginning or end of the file.
• Crop visually: It involves cropping the edges or specific parts of the image without affecting the duration, useful for removing unwanted elements on the sides or changing the aspect ratio.

Both functions are commonly found in editing programs, but it's important to know what each one does before you start editing videos.

Editing and Saving Videos in Other Formats: Tips, Compatibility, and Recommendations

Al export or convert a video to another format, always consider where you are going to play or share it. MP4 format is the best option for compatibility, quality and balanced size, but there are programs that also allow you to choose AVI, MOV, WMV and others according to your needs.

• Make sure to choose an appropriate resolution to avoid overly large files.
• Check the codecs in the program and test playback if you need to share the video via WhatsApp, email or social networks.
• If you edit a lot of videos, consider a dedicated converter like Change video formats using “Save As” in Photos and Clipchamp on Windows 11, which add advanced features such as batch editing, watermark removal, and speed adjustments.

These tools are especially useful if you work with many different files or need professional results.

What to do if you want to speed up or slow down videos in Windows 11?

Sometimes you need to change the speed of a video, either to create a fast or slow motion effect. If you're still using Windows Movie Maker, it was as easy as changing the pace from the "Speed" option, but since it's no longer officially available, the best thing to do is to switch to:

• Clipchamp, which includes this feature for free.
• MiniTool MovieMaker, with the ability to adjust speed and quickly save the resulting file.
• Vidmore Video Converter, for advanced tempo control and other professional settings.

When changing the speed, always remember to export in a compatible format and check the quality before sharing your video.

Other built-in Windows 11 features: screen recording and basic editing

In addition to editing and converting, Windows 11 gives you tools to easily record your screen or webcam. The Snipping Tool and Game Bar Xbox are two excellent options for capturing video of your desktop, tutorials, or gameplay, and saving them in the format of your choice.

• Search for “Snipping Tool” or press Windows + G to open the Xbox Game Bar and start recording in seconds.
• Set the recording area, choose the audio source and save the file using “Save As”.

If you need something more advanced, you can turn to programs like Wondershare DemoCreator, which integrates editing and recording with a couple of clicks and allows you to export in different formats.

Advanced video editing: when you need to go a step further

The built-in options in Windows 11 stand out for their ease, but if you want add effects, transitions, titles or work professionally, it is advisable to consider installing more complete applications.

• Mini Tool Movie Maker: Intuitive interface, split-screen effects, automatic audio trimming, and no watermark for HD videos.
• Clipchamp: Templates, cloud sync, and a host of settings to customize your export.
• 4Easysoft Total Video Converter: : Cropping, watermark removal and format conversion in one tool.

Many of these programs allow you to import and export in all common formats, making it easy to work with videos from any source and use.

After learning about all the possibilities offered by Windows 11 and the best free tools to edit, trim, convert and save videos in any format you want, you surely now understand that you don't need to be an expert to create videos adapted to any need.Using built-in apps like Photos and Clipchamp, you can create everything from the most basic cuts to more advanced montages. If you're looking for more options, there are programs like MiniTool MovieMaker that won't limit you in quality or formats. And if you run into any problems, remember that there are always alternatives and little tricks to get you through, ensuring your videos are ready to use or share in minutes.