How to Crop a Video on Windows 10
Cropping a video is an important part of editing because it lets you get rid of parts you don't want, focus on a certain area, or make the whole thing look better. There are a number of programs that can help you do this easily.
This guide will show you how to crop a video on Windows 10 using both well-known desktop and online tools.
Way 1. Icecream Video Editor
Icecream Video Editor is a free software that is great for people who are just starting out or have some experience. This app is very flexible. You can trim and combine clips, as well as add music, transitions, and visual effects for better projects.
How to use Icecream Video Editor for video cropping on Windows
- Download free video editor for PC, open the file, and follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
- Launch the app and click "Add files" to import your clip. You can also drop it directly into the media library.
- From there, drag the element to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.
- Press the "Crop" button located in the toolbar above the timeline.
- Choose one of the options:
- Scale to fit. The program will automatically crop video size so it would fit the aspect ratio.
- Crop. Manually adjust the frame by dragging the corners or edges to select the area you want to keep.
- Hit "Done" to apply the changes and then "Export video" to save the result.
Pros:
- Keep aspect ratio. This feature allows you to ensure that you maintain the same dimensions by locking it.
- Blurred background. If you decide to change the ratio, the blurred bars help seamlessly blend the result with the original footage.
- Intuitive interface. The drag-and-drop interface is easy to navigate, making it accessible for beginners and efficient for more experienced specialists.
- Export options. You can export the result in MP4 or WebM and set the desired resolution, quality, and frame rate appropriate for different platforms and devices.
- Editing tools. The video editing software provides a wide range of other options including trimming, merging, flipping, reversing, and more.
- Quick installation. The program is lightweight and does not consume excessive system resources, so it is suitable for a wide range of computers.
With Icecream Video Editor, it is easy to crop your video's size to focus on specific parts. It supports various formats and includes additional things. It is a comprehensive solution for professional-looking footage.
Way 2. Video Candy
Video Candy is an online platform that allows you to perform quick modifications without needing to download software. With an intuitive interface, it caters to both beginners and those with moderate experience.
How to utilize the online video cropper on Video Candy
- Open your web browser and go to the Video Candy website.
- Click the "Add File" button to select the clip from your computer. Alternatively, drag and drop it.
- Use the on-screen box to pick the area you want to keep. Also, you can set the needed dimensions among the presets, or enter width and height manually.
- Preview the footage to make sure the framing is exactly how you intended it to be.
- Once you're satisfied, hit "Export" to confirm the changes.
Pros:
- Flexible Dimensions. Choose from preset or manually enter custom numbers, providing precise control.
- Quick Processing. The service processes changes quickly, leading to faster turnaround.
- Mute. This option removes the audio track, allowing you to focus solely on visual editing without altering the original sound.
These advantages make Video Candy a practical, convenient, and versatile tool for simple online work.
Way 3. Adobe Express
Adobe Express offers a suite of powerful digital features for various needs, including video cropping. As part of the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem, it enables you to enhance and transform multimedia content.
How to crop videos online using Adobe Express
- Open the website and log in to your Adobe account.
- On the "Home" page, click "View all" in "Suggested Quick actions".
- In the window that opens, go to the "Video" tab and select "Crop video".
- Drag and drop the file from your device to the working area.
- Set the desired aspect ratio and adjust the part to your liking.
- Once you're satisfied with the result, hit the "Download" button.
Pros:
- Aspect ratio. Standard parameters include 16:9 (landscape), 9:16 (portrait), and 1:1 (square). You can also select "Freeform" to ensure it fits different services and devices.
- Accessibility. This is an online platform, which means you can access it from any device with an internet connection and a web browser.
- No installation. The service doesn't require any downloads. You can crop videos directly from any browser without having to worry about system compatibility or updates.
Cons:
- Internet dependency. Users in areas with slow or unreliable internet may experience delays or difficulties in uploading, processing, or saving, impacting the overall process.
- File restrictions. The free video cropper limits the size that can be uploaded and processed to 1 GB.
Overall, Adobe Express provides a convenient and versatile solution. It is great for those who need to work quickly and efficiently without the hassle of installing software or dealing with complex interfaces.
Crop vs trim
| Aspect | Crop | Trim |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Removes parts of the frame, usually from the sides, top, or bottom, to focus on a specific area. | Cuts out unwanted sections from the start or end of the clip to shorten its length. |
| Purpose | Adjusts the visible area or removes distractions. | Deletes unnecessary portions to retain the main content. |
| Output Quality | Can reduce resolution or modify visual balance due to the removal of frame parts. | Keeps the visual quality intact. |
Tips for cropping videos effectively
- If you want the footage to remain in the same proportions as the original, ensure you either cut evenly from all sides or use a tool that locks the aspect ratio for you.
- Avoid cutting out too much of the background or context unless it enhances the main focus.
- Keep the subject centered or framed to ensure the viewer’s attention stays where you want it.
- A helpful guideline in video cropping is the rule of thirds. Imagine dividing the frame into a 3x3 grid. Place the most important elements along these lines or at the intersections. This will make the image feel more balanced and visually appealing.
- If you're planning to upload the clip to a specific platform (like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok), optimize dimensions for that service.
FAQ on how to crop a video on Windows 10
- Does Windows 10 have a built-in tool for cropping videos?
- No, the Photos app offers basic features, including trimming, drawing, and changing the playback speed.
- Is cropping different from resizing?
- Yes, it removes portions of the frame, while resizing changes the dimensions of the entire frame.
- Does cropping affect the size?
- Yes, especially if you're taking away a lot of the frame. But the effect on the file is usually small compared to other actions, like video compression.
- Can you crop a video without losing its quality?
- Yes, you can keep the resolution by cutting in a way that keeps the same amount of space or by using techniques like "pan and scan" to make it look like the frame is moving.
- Can I crop videos to remove a watermark?
- Yes, this process can hide logos from. However, this may infringe on copyright or licensing agreements depending on the content.
- Is there a way to automate the process?
- Yes, some advanced video editing software lets you do batch procedure, which means you can apply the same settings to more than one clip at a time.
Conclusion
Once you know which tool to use and how to find your way around its features, using a video cropper on Windows 10 is easy.
Whether you opt for the versatile options of Icecream Video Editor or the simplicity of Adobe Express, you now have the knowledge to enhance your content by focusing on the most important elements.
Expert Tech Writer
