YouTube terms

Video Editor

YouTube's built-in tool for basic video editing.

What is a video editor in YouTube?

A video editor in YouTube is a built-in tool that allows users to edit their uploaded videos directly on the YouTube platform. This tool provides basic editing features such as trimming, splitting, and combining clips, adding audio tracks, and creating transitions between clips. It also allows users to add annotations, captions, and titles to their videos.

However, it's important to note that YouTube's video editor is not as advanced as professional video editing software. It is designed to provide simple, user-friendly editing options for casual users and content creators who may not have access to or experience with more sophisticated editing tools. Despite its limitations, the YouTube video editor is a convenient tool for making minor adjustments and enhancements to videos before they are published.

How to use the Video Editor in YouTube?

To use the YouTube Video Editor, you first need to sign in to your YouTube account. Once you're logged in, click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select "YouTube Studio" from the dropdown menu. In the YouTube Studio dashboard, select "Videos" from the left-hand menu, then click on the thumbnail of the video you want to edit. This will open the video details page. Click on the "Editor" tab on the left-hand side to start editing your video.

The YouTube Video Editor interface is divided into two main sections: the video timeline at the bottom and the preview window at the top. You can use the timeline to trim your video, add end screens, blur parts of your video, and more. To trim your video, click and drag the blue handles at the beginning or end of the timeline. To add an end screen, click on the "Add element" button in the top right corner of the Editor, then select "End screen". You can also add audio tracks to your video from YouTube's free audio library by clicking on the "Add a track" button in the "Audio" tab. Once you're done editing, click on "Save" in the top right corner to save your changes.

What features does the Video Editor in YouTube offer?

The Video Editor in YouTube offers a variety of features that allow users to create and edit their videos. This includes trimming, which allows users to shorten their videos and cut out any unnecessary parts. Users can also add music to their videos from a library of licensed songs. There are also options to add filters and effects, adjust the lighting and color, and add text to the video.

In addition to these basic editing tools, YouTube's Video Editor also offers features like blurring, which can be used to blur out sensitive information or to create a depth of field effect. Users can also use the end screen feature to promote other videos, encourage viewers to subscribe, or direct viewers to their website. Furthermore, the editor allows users to combine multiple videos and images, add transitions between clips, and control the video's speed. It's a comprehensive tool that caters to both basic and advanced video editing needs.

Is the Video Editor in YouTube free to use?

Yes, the Video Editor in YouTube is free to use. YouTube provides this feature to its users at no additional cost. It allows users to edit their videos directly on the platform, offering basic editing tools such as trimming, adding music, and adding end screens.

However, it's important to note that while the YouTube Video Editor is free, it is relatively basic in comparison to professional video editing software. For more advanced editing features, users may need to consider using other software, which may come at a cost. But for simple edits and adjustments, the YouTube Video Editor is a convenient and cost-effective tool.

If you create and edit videos...

You should try Tella.tv - a screen recorder that doesn't compromise on speed or creativity.

Tella simplifies video creation: record, customize, and share in one place; combine separate clips and quickly remove mistakes; apply beautiful backgrounds, layouts, and effects with just a few clicks; share the video link or export in 4K.

With Tella, create YouTube videos, tutorial videos, and online courses that look amazing in minutes, not hours!

Tella screen recorder

< Back to YouTube glossary

Try Tella today!

Screen recording for creators — simple and powerful.

7-day free trial — no credit card required