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

If you've ever wanted to change a video's format or simply needed to edit it easily on your Windows 11 PC, you've probably come across some of the tools included in the system and perhaps haven't taken full advantage of their features. Among them are the "Save As" option in the Photos app and Clipchamp, Microsoft's official video editor. In addition, there are other options worth considering that can greatly simplify your work, 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 to trim, save, and convert videos in Windows 11 using only the tools you already have or by installing free and accessible programs. We'll also give you tips for troubleshooting common errors, alternatives if you need more features, and details on the fundamental differences between trimming footage and visually cropping a video. This way, you'll always have control over your files, adapt them to any need, and share them without any headaches.

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

The Windows 11 Photos app is incredibly useful for those who don't want the hassle of downloading extra software. Cropping or adjusting a video takes just a few clicks, and the best part is that you can save the new version in the format you prefer, 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 bit more editing power, Clipchamp has become the go-to editor on Windows 11. You can not only trim videos, but also create short montages, add effects, change the output format, and much more. Plus, Clipchamp works both as an 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 Photos Legacy , which offers a more classic and user-friendly video editor if you prefer traditional interfaces. It allows you to trim, add titles, adjust playback speed, add effects, and save the result in your 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 the cropping controls sometimes appear 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 MiniTool MovieMaker that stand out for their intuitive interface and the ability to export without watermarks. In addition to trimming and changing the format, you can add effects, transitions, modify the speed, and much 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 some additional tricks such as editing videos directly in PowerPoint or using players like VLC for quick trimming:

• 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 discussing video editing, it's essential to distinguish between trimming footage and visually cropping a video . Here'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

When exporting or converting a video to another format , always consider where you'll be playing or sharing it. MP4 is the best format for compatibility, quality, and a balanced file size , but some programs also allow you to choose AVI, MOV, WMV, and other formats depending on 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, whether to create a fast-motion or slow-motion effect. If you're still using Windows Movie Maker, it was as easy as adjusting the speed from the "Speed" option, but since that's no longer officially available, the best option 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 offers tools for easily recording your screen or webcam. The Snipping Tool and the Xbox Game Bar are two excellent options for capturing video of your desktop, tutorials, or gameplay, and saving it in your preferred format.

• 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 are notable for their ease of use, but if you want to add effects, transitions, titles, or work professionally , it's worth considering installing more comprehensive 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 Windows 11 offers and the best free tools for editing, trimming, converting, and saving videos in any format you want, you'll surely understand that you don't need to be an expert to create videos tailored to any need . Using built-in apps like Photos and Clipchamp, you can do everything from basic trimming to more advanced editing. If you're looking for more options, programs like MiniTool MovieMaker won't limit you in terms of quality or formats. And if you run into any problems, remember that there are always workarounds and simple tricks to get you out of a bind, ensuring your videos are ready to use or share in minutes.