How To Get The Windows Video Editor: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Edgar Nicov

How-To

5 min. read

Published on November 6, 2025

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The Windows Video Editor, often referred to as Microsoft Video Editor, is a handy tool built right into Windows 10 and 11. It allows you to create and edit videos without needing to download any extra software. This guide will walk you through exactly how to access and start using the Windows Video Editor, even if you’re not sure where to find it.

Whether you want to trim a video, add text, apply effects, or create a slideshow from your photos, the Windows Video Editor provides a simple and intuitive interface. Let’s get started and unlock the creative possibilities within your Windows operating system.

Where Do I Find the Windows Video Editor?

The Windows Video Editor isn’t a standalone app in the traditional sense. It’s part of the Photos app. Here’s how to find it:

Accessing the Video Editor Through the Photos App

Open the Photos app: Click the Windows Start button, type “Photos,” and select the Photos app from the search results.
Start a new video project: In the Photos app, look for the “Video Editor” tab at the top or side. If you don’t see it, click “New video” and then select “New video project.”
Name your project: A window will pop up asking you to name your video project. Enter a name and click “OK.”

Creating a Video from Existing Photos or Videos

Select the photos or videos: In the Photos app, select the photos and videos you want to include in your video.
Click “Create”: Click the “Create” button at the top of the screen.
Choose “Automatic video with music” or “Custom video with music”:

Automatic video with music: Windows will automatically create a video with music and effects.
Custom video with music: This opens the Video Editor where you can customize the video yourself.

Starting the Video Editor from a File

Locate the video file: Find the video file you want to edit in File Explorer.
Right-click the video file: Right-click the video file.
Select “Open with”: Choose “Open with” from the context menu.
Select “Photos”: Select the Photos app from the list of options. This will open the video in the Photos app, and you can then start a new video project as described above.

Troubleshooting: If You Can’t Find the Video Editor

Update the Photos app: Open the Microsoft Store app.
Check for updates: Click the three dots in the upper-right corner and select “Downloads and updates.”
Update the Photos app (if available): If an update for the Photos app is available, click “Update.”
Reset the Photos app: If updating doesn’t work, try resetting the app. Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
Find the Photos app: Locate the Photos app in the list.
Click “Advanced options”: Click on the Photos app and select “Advanced options.”
Click “Reset”: Scroll down and click the “Reset” button.
Reinstall the Photos app: If resetting doesn’t work, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.

Uninstall the Photos app: In the “Advanced options” screen, click “Uninstall”.
Reinstall from the Microsoft Store: Go to the Microsoft Store, search for “Microsoft Photos”, and reinstall the app.

Tips for Using the Windows Video Editor

Keyboard shortcuts: Learn keyboard shortcuts to speed up your editing process.
Experiment with effects: Try out different visual effects and filters to enhance your videos.
Use music effectively: Choose music that complements your video’s mood and pacing.
Add text overlays: Use text overlays to provide context or highlight important information.
Keep it concise: Aim for shorter, engaging videos to keep your audience’s attention.

Windows Video Editor: Your Editing Toolkit

With these steps, you’ll easily find and start using the Windows Video Editor to create engaging videos.

FAQ

Is the Windows Video Editor free? Yes, the Windows Video Editor is a free tool included with Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Can I add music to my videos using the Windows Video Editor? Yes, you can add music to your videos. You can choose from the built-in music library or use your own music files.

Does the Windows Video Editor support different video formats? Yes, the Windows Video Editor supports a variety of video formats, including MP4, AVI, MOV, and more.

Can I trim videos with the Windows Video Editor? Yes, you can easily trim videos by dragging the start and end points of the video clip in the timeline.

Where are the video editor files saved? Video projects created in the Windows Video Editor are typically saved in the Photos app library, but you can specify a different location when you export the final video.

Comparing Windows Video Editor to Other Editors

Feature	Windows Video Editor	Paid Video Editors (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro)
Cost	Free	Paid
Ease of Use	Very Easy	Steeper learning curve
Advanced Features	Limited	Extensive
Target Audience	Beginners, Casual Users	Professionals, Advanced Users
Export Options	Basic	Advanced

Creating Videos Made Easy

Now you know how to access and use the Windows Video Editor, allowing you to create and edit videos directly on your Windows computer without needing any additional software. Start experimenting with its features and unleash your creativity!