Remember the days when you could effortlessly stitch together your vacation clips using the Windows Movie Maker app? Introduced in 2000 as part of Windows ME, this intuitive video editor quickly became a favorite among users for its simplicity and ease of use. It allowed anyone to become a media creator, crafting memorable videos without the need for advanced skills. However, in 2017, Microsoft discontinued the Windows Movie Maker app, leaving many searching for suitable alternatives.
But don’t worry! The video editing arena has since evolved, and we have plenty of video editing tools that cater to both novices and seasoned editors. Let’s look at some Windows Movie Maker alternatives.
Top 10 Windows Movie Maker Alternatives In 2025
1. Microsoft Photos (Video Editor)
Surprisingly, your Windows 10 or 11 PC comes equipped with a handy tool: the built-in Video Editor within the Microsoft Photos app. While primarily known for photo viewing, this app also offers basic video editing capabilities. You can trim videos, add text, incorporate music, and apply simple effects. It’s perfect for quick edits without the need to download additional software.
Best suited for: Casual users who need to perform basic video edits without diving into complex software.
2. OpenShot
If you’re seeking a free, open-source solution, OpenShot is a great Windows Movie Maker alternative. It boasts a user-friendly interface and is accessible to beginners. Features include drag-and-drop functionality, clip resizing, scaling, trimming, and even 3D animations. Its cross-platform nature ensures compatibility with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Best suited for: Beginners and intermediate users looking for a free tool with a balance of basic and advanced features.
3. Shotcut
Another free, open-source gem is Shotcut. This video editor supports a wide range of formats and offers features like timeline editing, audio mixing, and a host of filters and effects. Its modular design allows users to customize their workspace, tailoring the interface to their preferences.
Best suited for: Users who desire a customizable interface and need support for various video formats.
4. DaVinci Resolve
For those aiming for a professional touch, DaVinci Resolve stands out. Renowned for its advanced color correction and post-production capabilities, it’s a favorite among filmmakers and video editors. While it offers a free version packed with features, there’s also a paid version for folks wanting more advanced tools.
Best suited for: Professional editors and filmmakers requiring advanced color grading and post-production features.
5. VSDC Free Video Editor
VSDC offers both free and pro versions, catering to a wide range of users. The free version provides a color correction, audio and visual effects tools, and supports various formats. It has a non-linear editing approach so you can have more flexibility and position video clips in any sequence on the timeline.
Best suited for: Intermediate users seeking non-linear editing capabilities without a hefty price tag.
6. Animotica
Designed with beginners in mind, Animotica is a user-friendly video editor available on the Microsoft Store. This Windows Movie Maker alternative offers features like trimming, splitting, merging, and a variety of transitions and effects. Its intuitive interface ensures that even those with minimal editing experience can produce polished videos.
Best suited for: Novice editors and casual users looking for straightforward editing tools.
7. VideoPad Video Editor
VideoPad is a lightweight yet powerful video editing software suitable for both beginners and professionals. It supports a range of video formats and offers features like transitions, visual effects, and 3D video editing. Its straightforward interface gives you a smooth editing experience.
Best suited for: Users seeking a balance between simplicity and advanced features without a steep learning curve.
8. Clipchamp
Acquired by Microsoft, Clipchamp is an online video editor that combines ease of use with a rich set of features. It offers templates, stock media, filters, and transitions, making video creation a breeze. Being web-based, it ensures compatibility across devices without the need for installations.
Best suited for: Content creators and social media enthusiasts needing quick edits and access to stock media.
9. Kdenlive
Kdenlive, short for KDE Non-Linear Video Editor, is a free and open-source video editing software. This Windows Movie Maker alternative offers multi-track editing, a wide range of effects and transitions, and support for various formats. Its customizable interface caters to both beginners and advanced users.
Best suited for: Users seeking a free, open-source alternative with advanced editing capabilities.
10. Filmora
Filmora is a popular choice among content creators for its balance between advanced features and user-friendly design. It offers a vast library of effects, transitions, and royalty-free music. Features like motion tracking, keyframing, and color matching make it a versatile tool for various editing needs.
Best suited for: Content creators and YouTubers seeking a feature-rich yet intuitive video editing platform.
Bottom Line
Windows Movie Maker may be gone, but your video editing journey doesn’t have to end there. Whether you’re a casual creator or an aspiring filmmaker, there’s an ideal tool out there for you, from the simplicity of Microsoft Photos to the pro-level features of DaVinci Resolve and Filmora. Explore these top alternatives and find the one that fits your style, skill level, and vision.
Looking for more tech tips and tools? Dive deeper into the world of smart software with Yaabot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why was Windows Movie Maker discontinued?
Microsoft discontinued the Windows Movie Maker app in 2017 to focus on more integrated solutions within the Windows ecosystem, such as the Photos app, which offers basic video editing features.
- Is there a direct Windows Movie Maker alternative in Windows 10 or 11?
While there’s no direct replacement, the built-in Video Editor within the Microsoft Photos app is a basic Windows Movie Maker alternative for simple video editing tasks.
- What features should I consider when choosing film software?
When selecting film software, prioritize a user-friendly interface, compatibility with your operating system, and advanced editing capabilities. Ensure the film software supports the formats you work with.
- How can a film editor improve their editing skills?
A film editor can enhance their skills by practicing regularly, studying various editing techniques, and staying updated with industry trends. Collaborating with other professionals and seeking constructive feedback also aids a film editor’s growth.
- Are there other media creator tools suitable for beginners?
Yes, media creator tools like Canva, Adobe Express and CapCut are ideal for beginners and have paid versions with enhanced features. These media creator applications offer intuitive interfaces and essential features to kickstart your editing journey.
