How to Use Clipchamp, the Built-in Windows 11 Video Editor

For years, Windows users had to rely on third-party software to perform basic video edits because Microsoft abandoned the beloved Windows Movie Maker. However, with Windows 11, Microsoft finally introduced a proper, built-in replacement: Clipchamp.

Clipchamp is a surprisingly capable, timeline-based video editor. It allows you to trim footage, combine multiple clips, add transitions, overlay text, and export in 1080p high definition—all without downloading any additional software.

How to Open Clipchamp

Clipchamp is pre-installed on all modern versions of Windows 11.

1. Click the Start button on your taskbar.
2. Search for Clipchamp and hit Enter.
3. You will need to sign in using your Microsoft account (or Google account).
4. Once logged in, click the purple Create a new video button on the home screen.

How to Import and Trim Video Clips

The Clipchamp interface is divided into three main sections: your media library on the left, the video preview in the centre, and the timeline at the bottom.

1. Import Media: Click the Import media button in the top left corner (or just drag and drop files from your desktop). Select the video clips, images, or audio files you want to use.
2. Add to Timeline: Drag a video clip from your media library down into the timeline at the bottom of the screen.
3. Trim the Video: To cut off the beginning or end of a clip, hover your mouse over the edge of the clip in the timeline until a green handle appears. Click and drag this green handle inward to trim the footage.
4. Split a Clip: To cut a single video into two separate pieces (perhaps to delete a mistake in the middle), click the clip in the timeline to select it. Drag the vertical white playhead (the scrubber) to the exact moment you want to make the cut, and click the Split icon (it looks like a pair of scissors). You can then select the unwanted section and press the Delete key.

How to Add Text and Transitions

Raw footage is rarely enough for a polished presentation. You will likely want to add titles and smooth transitions between your clips.

Adding Text

1. Look at the far left vertical menu bar and click Text.
2. Browse the various animated text styles (like “Lower Third” or “Typewriter”).
3. Click the green + (Add to timeline) button next to a text style. It will appear on a new track above your video clip in the timeline.
4. Click the text block in the timeline. A properties panel will open on the right side of the screen where you can type your actual text, change the font, and adjust the colours.

Adding Transitions

1. Ensure you have two video clips sitting side-by-side on the same track in your timeline.
2. Click Transitions on the far left vertical menu bar.
3. Find a transition you like (e.g., “Cross fade” or “Push”).
4. Click and drag the transition directly onto the tiny seam where your two video clips meet in the timeline. A green plus icon will appear indicating it has been applied.

Exporting Your Finished Video

When your editing is complete, you need to “render” the timeline into a single, playable MP4 file.

1. Click the purple Export button in the top right corner of the screen.
2. You will be prompted to choose a video quality. For most YouTube videos, school projects, or social media posts, select 1080p (HD). (Do not select 4K, as that requires a paid premium subscription).
3. Clipchamp will begin rendering the video. Depending on the length of the video and the speed of your computer, this could take a few minutes.
4. Once complete, the MP4 file will automatically save to your computer’s Downloads folder.