Introduction to editing with VLC
When you think of VLCmost people associate it with a all-round media playercapable of opening virtually any format.
What few people know is that VLC can also be used for easy video editingwithout the need to download heavy and complex programs.
If you are looking for a way to cutting scenes, joining fragments together or saving specific moments video, VLC can be your ideal ally.
Why choose VLC for video editing? 🤔
The answer is simple: VLC is free, lightweight and cross-platform.
Unlike other publishers, does not require expensive licenses and does not consume too many resources on your computer.
In addition, as it is available in its official websiteYou can download it with total confidence and security.
Preparing VLC for editing
Before jumping into cutting scenes, make sure that your VLC is up to date to the latest version.
This ensures that you have access to the recording and conversion tools without unexpected errors.
Remember that VLC is not a professional editor, but it can be perfect for quick and basic tasks.
How to cut a video fragment ✂️
One of the most common uses of VLC is to extract specific parts of a video.
- Open VLC and load the video you want to edit.
- Activates the advanced controls bar from the menu View > Advanced controls.
- Place yourself at the starting point of the fragment.
- Press the red save.
- Let the video advance to the end of the fragment.
- Press the red button again to stop recording.
The result will be a new video file saved in your Videos folder.
This method is ideal for saving movie clips, online classes or long transmissions.
Advantage of cutting with VLC
What is most interesting is that VLC does not recompress videowhich means that the resulting file preserves the original quality.
This makes it a fast and lossless option for to extract specific moments.
How to join several fragments together in VLC 🔗
Although VLC does not include a direct tool for merge videosthere is a little trick.
If the videos have the same format, resolution and codecyou can either join them with the line command or with the exported playlist.
- Open VLC.
- Drag the videos to the player in the order you want to join them.
- Save the playlist as a file
.m3u. - Play and export the whole set to a single file from the convert/save.
The process may seem technical, but it is an effective way of combine recordings without getting too complicated.
Converting video formats with VLC 🔄
Editing does not only mean cutting or joining, it also involves adapt a video to different formats.
With VLC you can convert an AVI file to MP4, MKV to MOV or even extract only the audio to MP3.
- Opens the menu Medium > Convert/Save.
- Select the video file.
- Choose the output profile (e.g. MP4).
- Adjust resolution and codec parameters if needed.
- Save the new file.
So you can have a video ready for mobile devices, uploading to social networks or sharing without compatibility issues.
Extract the audio from a video 🎵
Many times you just want to save music or video narrationand with VLC it is very easy.
Following the same conversion process, it is sufficient to choose a MP3 or FLAC output profile.
In seconds you will have the audio isolated in a separate file.
Perfect for podcasts, interviews or recorded classes.
Practical tips for editing with VLC 💡
- Activate keyboard shortcutsPause, record or fast forward will be more convenient.
- Organize your Videos folderVLC saves trimmed clips there by default.
- Test different output formatsIf a video does not play on your mobile, change it to MP4.
- Do not abuse back-to-back conversionsevery conversion can affect the quality if you don't use the right parameters.
Limitations of editing in VLC ⚠️
It is important to clarify that VLC is not a substitute for a professional editor such as Adobe Premiere or DaVinci Resolve.
You will not be able to add transitions, visual effects or advanced color correction.
However, if what you need is make quick cuts, extract audio or convert formatsVLC is a perfect solution.
Free alternatives to VLC for basic editing 🎥
If after using VLC you feel you need more features, you can try it:
- ShotcutFree editor with multiple filters and effects.
- Openshoteasy to use, with timeline for more elaborate projects.
- Avidemuxexcellent for cutting and joining without recompressing.
Each has its advantages, but VLC stands out for its simplicity and speed.
Conclusion
The basic video editing in VLC is a tool that many people don't know about, but that can get you out of trouble in seconds.
You don't need to be an expert or invest money to cut clips, join fragments or convert files.
So the next time you open VLC, remember that it is much more than just a player: is a small editor hidden in your computer.