Trim Video Using VLC Media Player [Full Guide in 2026]

VLC Media Player is not just an ideal program for playing your media files. It can also offer a trimming feature, allowing you to shorten your video length without needing a separate video editor. With this feature, users can trim unwanted sections and save a shorter version of their footage directly from the videos. So, if you want to learn how to trim video in VLC, you are in the right place. Check here for the best method you can follow. Plus, we will also give you the best alternative, like Vidmore Video Converter, as an ideal tool for a smoother video trimming process.

Part 1. Can I Trim a Video Using VLC

Wondering if VLC Media Player can trim your videos? The answer is yes. The software is not just an excellent tool for playing your audio and videos. You can also trim your videos by using the recording feature. With this feature, you can shorten the video and extract a specific part. Plus, after the trimming/recording process, the video will be saved in your computer's video folder. You can even ensure the original quality is retained, resulting in better video playback. So, if you are planning to trim videos, consider using VLC Media Player.

Part 2. How to Trim Video with VLC

Want to trim a video in VLC? Well, trimming your video is simple. All you need to do is rely on the program's recorder feature. It can help you get the desired part from the video and save it at the original quality. To begin the procedure, follow the steps outlined in this section.

Step 1. For the first step, download VLC Media Player to your Windows or Mac computer. Then, start installing it to begin the process.

Step 2. After launching the program, go to the top interface and click Media > Open File options to add the video you want to trim.

Step 3. Then proceed to the View > Advanced Controls section to see the other controls below. Then, start hitting the Record button to start recording the video.

Let the video play until the section you want to keep. Click the same button to stop recording.

Step 4. After that, the saved and trimming video will be found in your recordings folder.

With this method, you can ensure that you can trim MP4 and other video files. It can even provide a simple process, making it an ideal program for handling your videos. So, for an effective trimming process, especially when getting your desired part from the video, consider using VLC Media Player.

Part 3. Pros and Cons of Trimming Video in VLC

After reading the section above, you have learned that VLC can trim your videos. Now, if you want to learn more about the program, check the details here, as we offer its advantages and limitations.

Good Things about VLC Media Player

Free and Lightweight

VLC Media Player is a free-to-use platform. It is ideal for users who want to trim their videos without spending a penny. Not only that, but the software is also lightweight. It means you can download it to your computer without worrying about storage space, making it the best choice for users with limited storage.

Simple to Operate

What makes the platform ideal is its comprehensive layout. You can trim and record your video without any trouble. You can easily navigate and use all the necessary functions instantly, making it a top choice for beginners.

Support Various Formats

VLC is not just capable of trimming your videos. It can also support various input and output formats. Some of the formats it supports are MP4, MKV, WMV, AVI, FLV, M4V, and more. This capability ensures that you won't encounter any compatibility issues when trimming and recording your videos.

Cross Platform

You can download and install VLC on your Mac, Windows, and Linux. It ensures you can run the program on any platform without issue.

Offer Basic Editing Tools

If you want to enhance the video before trimming, you can do so. VLC can offer basic editing tools you can use. You can crop the video, adjust playback speed, change aspect ratio, add effects, and more. These tools can help you get a better version of your video before the final trimming process.

Drawbacks of VLC Media Player

Limited Precision

Cuts are based on manual playback. It means that exact frame-level trimming is challenging.

No Advanced Editing

As we mentioned, VLC can only offer basic editing tools. If you want to improve the video using advanced tools, it is recommended to use a professional-grade video editor.

Outdated User Interface

The program's main layout is not particularly appealing to users. It is too simple compared with other video editors and media players. It can be one reason some users don't use it.

You can also visit: Effective Methods on how to send large files.

Part 4. Troubleshooting: Why VLC Trimmed Files Didn't Save

Here are some common reasons your trimmed videos in VLC might not have been saved, along with how to fix them.

Recording Not Started Properly

Fix: Always ensure that you have clicked the red Record button after opening this feature on Views > Advanced Controls section. The process won't start if you don't press the actual button.

File Location Confusion

Fix: By default, the trimmed and recorded video on VLC will be kept in the Videos folder. Always check the folder in the Tools > Preferences > Input/Codecs > Record Directory section.

Permission Issue

Fix: If your VLC doesn't have permission to write to the chosen folder, you can't save the video. You can try setting a different directory and ensure that you have write access.

Part 5. Alternative Method to Trim Video Easily

VLC is a helpful tool for trimming video. However, to get the result you need, you have to rely on this recorder feature. So, if you are looking for the best alternative that offers a standalone video trimmer, we suggest using Vidmore Video Converter. This program is a strong alternative to VLC for trimming videos. It is ideal for users who need more flexibility and precision. Compared to VLC's recording method, Vidmore offers a dedicated trimming tool with frame-level accuracy, allowing you to remove unwanted sections smoothly. The best part here is that you can adjust other parameters during the process. You can deal with the video's resolution, frame rate, format, encoder, and more. With that, we can say that Vidmore Video Converter is the best replacement for VLC for trimming your videos.

Step 1. Download Vidmore Video Converter on your desktop. Open it to trim the video immediately.

Step 2. Navigate to the Toolbox section and select the Video Trimmer feature. Tap Plus to start adding the video from your device.

Step 3. You can start trimming the video. Use the adjustable start and end points. Then hit the Trim feature to start trimming.

Step 4. You can also go to the Output section to choose your preferred video output format, resolution, frame rate, and more. Hit OK to apply changes.

Step 5. For the last process, click the Export button to keep the trimmed video on your computer.

Thanks to this program, you can easily and smoothly trim the video. It can even offer more features than VLC, making it the superior choice for handling your videos. Therefore, if you need the best VLC replacement for trimming videos, it is best to use Vidmore Video Converter.

Part 6. FAQs about Trimming Video in VLC

Is it good for trimming long videos on VLC?

It is not ideal to trim long videos in VLC. Since the program can only record the video, it will take much time to get the final result.

Is VLC safe to use for trimming video?

Definitely, yes. VLC is an offline media player and editor. It ensures you can trim and manage your videos without compromising your privacy or security.

What is the best video trimmer?

If you need the best trimmer, you can access Vidmore Video Converter. With its Video Trimmer feature, you can trim your videos to your preferences. You can even adjust various parameters, such as resolution, formats, and encoder settings. It ensures that you can achieve the result you want after the editing process.

Conclusion

If you want to trim a video in VLC, you can follow the methods from this guidepost. It can help you trim the video using its built-in recorder. Plus, if you want the best VLC replacement with a reliable video trimmer, Vidmore Video Converter is the best choice. It can help you trim videos and save them with the best quality for better playback.