Removing excess footage from your recordings on Windows 10 requires using the built-in video editor. If you have ever wondered how to crop a video windows 10, the solution is simpler than you might think.
You don’t need expensive software. Windows 10 includes a free tool called Photos app. It handles basic video editing tasks like cropping, trimming, and resizing.
This guide walks you through every step. You will learn multiple methods, including third-party options. By the end, you can crop any video file quickly.
Why Crop A Video On Windows 10?
Cropping removes unwanted parts from the frame. Maybe you have black bars on the sides. Perhaps you recorded a screen area that is too wide.
Cropping also helps focus attention. You can cut out distracting background elements. This makes your video look more professional.
Common reasons to crop include:
- Removing letterboxing or pillarboxing
- Focusing on a specific subject
- Changing aspect ratio for social media
- Hiding watermarks or timestamps
How To Crop A Video Windows 10 Using The Photos App
The Photos app is pre-installed on most Windows 10 systems. It offers a straightforward cropping tool. Follow these steps.
Step 1: Open The Video In Photos App
Right-click your video file. Select “Open with” then choose “Photos”. The app launches and displays your video.
If you cannot find Photos, search for it in the Start menu. Type “Photos” and click the app icon.
Step 2: Access The Edit & Create Menu
Look at the top toolbar. Click the “Edit & Create” button. A dropdown menu appears.
Select “Trim” from the list. This opens the video editing interface. Do not confuse trim with crop; they are different.
Step 3: Use The Crop Tool
After clicking Trim, you see a new window. Look for the “Crop” icon on the right side. It looks like a square with arrows.
Click it. A crop box appears over your video frame. Drag the corners to select the area you want to keep.
You can also adjust aspect ratio presets. Options include 16:9, 4:3, and square. Choose one that fits your needs.
Step 4: Apply And Save
Once satisfied, click “Save a copy” or “Save”. The app processes the crop. A new file is created with the cropped version.
Your original video remains untouched. This is safe for experimentation.
Note: The Photos app crop tool is basic. It does not allow fine pixel adjustments. For precise control, try other methods below.
Using Third-Party Software For Advanced Cropping
Sometimes the Photos app is not enough. You may need exact dimensions or rotation. Free tools like VLC Media Player and Shotcut offer more features.
How To Crop With VLC Media Player
VLC is a popular media player. It includes a hidden cropping feature. Here is how to use it.
- Open VLC and play your video.
- Go to “Tools” then “Effects and Filters”.
- Click the “Video Effects” tab.
- Select the “Crop” subtab.
- Enter pixel values for left, right, top, bottom.
- Click “Close”. The crop applies instantly.
VLC does not save the crop permanently. You must record the cropped output separately. Use the “Convert/Save” option under “Media”.
How To Crop With Shotcut (Free Editor)
Shotcut is a full video editor. It gives you complete control. Download it from the official website.
- Import your video into Shotcut.
- Drag it to the timeline.
- Click “Filters” then “+” and choose “Crop”.
- Adjust the crop rectangle in the preview window.
- Export the video using “Export” button.
Shotcut supports keyframes. You can animate the crop over time. This is useful for panning effects.
How To Crop A Video Windows 10 Using Online Tools
If you prefer not to install software, online tools work. Websites like Clideo, Kapwing, and Canva offer cropping. Upload your video, crop, and download.
Be careful with privacy. Do not upload sensitive videos to unknown sites. Check their terms of service.
Online tools usually limit file size. Free versions add watermarks. Consider this before choosing.
Common Cropping Scenarios And Solutions
Different videos require different approaches. Here are typical cases.
Removing Black Bars From A Video
Black bars appear when aspect ratios mismatch. To remove them, crop the video to match the content area.
In Photos app, drag the crop box to exclude the black bars. Preview to ensure no important content is lost.
Cropping A Screen Recording
Screen recordings often include taskbars or notifications. Crop to focus on the main window.
Use precise pixel values in VLC or Shotcut. Measure the desired area with screenshot tools.
Changing Aspect Ratio For Social Media
Instagram requires square or vertical videos. TikTok uses 9:16. YouTube prefers 16:9.
Select the preset in your editor. Adjust the crop box to keep the subject centered.
Tips For Better Video Cropping Results
Follow these tips to avoid common mistakes.
- Always keep the subject centered. Cropping off-center looks unprofessional.
- Use grid lines if available. They help with alignment.
- Export in the same resolution as original to avoid quality loss.
- Test different aspect ratios before finalizing.
- Save a backup of the original file.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes cropping does not work as expected. Here are solutions.
Video Quality Drops After Cropping
Cropping reduces resolution. To minimize quality loss, crop only what is necessary. Export at highest bitrate possible.
Photos App Crop Option Grayed Out
This happens with unsupported file formats. Convert the video to MP4 using a converter. Then try again.
Cropped Video Has Wrong Dimensions
Check your export settings. Ensure you are not adding extra padding. Use “Custom” dimensions if presets fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Crop A Video Without Losing Quality?
Cropping always reduces pixel count. However, using high bitrate exports minimizes visible quality loss. Avoid excessive cropping.
Is There A Way To Crop A Video In Windows 10 Without Apps?
No built-in tool other than Photos app exists. You can use online editors, but they require internet.
How Do I Crop A Video To A Specific Size In Pixels?
Use Shotcut or VLC. Enter exact pixel values for width and height. Photos app does not support pixel input.
What Is The Best Free Video Cropper For Windows 10?
Shotcut is the most powerful free option. VLC is good for quick adjustments. Photos app is easiest for beginners.
Can I Crop A Video And Keep The Audio?
Yes, cropping does not affect audio. All methods listed preserve audio tracks. Only the visual frame changes.
Final Thoughts On Cropping Videos In Windows 10
Now you know how to crop a video windows 10 using multiple methods. Start with the Photos app for simple tasks. Upgrade to Shotcut for advanced needs.
Practice on short clips first. This builds confidence without wasting time. Remember to always keep a backup.
Cropping is a fundamental editing skill. Master it, and your videos will look cleaner and more engaging. You can now remove distractions and focus on what matters.
If you encounter problems, revisit the troubleshooting section. Most issues have simple fixes. Do not hesitate to experiment with different tools.
Your video editing journey starts here. Go ahead and crop that video today.