How to Trim MP4 Files: A Complete 2025 Guide

If you’ve ever had to deal with an MP4 video that’s way too long or needs some editing to get just the right clip, you’re in the right place. Sometimes, we record videos that need a little trimming- maybe you want to cut out the boring intro, remove unnecessary scenes, or just shorten an MP4 video to fit your project. Whatever the reason, knowing how to trim an MP4 file can save you a ton of time and make your video way more enjoyable to watch.

In this guide, we will share 3 easy ways to trim MP4 files, whether you're on Windows or Mac, and whether you want to cut MP4 on your desktop or do it online. You’ll get the lowdown on three super-useful tools.

GUIDE LIST

Why Do People Need to Trim MP4 Files?

Method 1: Trim MP4 Using ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate

Method 2: Trim MP4 Using Movavi Video Editor

Method 3: Trim MP4 Using iMovie (For Mac Users)

FAQs

Why Do People Need to Trim MP4 Files?

So, why would you even want to trim MP4 files? Good question! There are a ton of reasons people need to cut MP4 videos. Maybe you're trying to share a video on social media, but it’s too long. Or maybe you're working on a project where you only need a specific part of the video. In both cases, trimming the MP4 file can save you space and make the video way easier to work with.

The beauty of trimming is that you can keep just the parts of the video you care about. No more sitting through extra footage or wasting time editing out unimportant sections. Whether it’s trimming an MP4 for YouTube, trimming an MP4 for a school project, or just shortening a personal video, there are lots of ways to get the job done!

Let’s break down a few of the easiest tools you can use to cut MP4 files.

Method 1: Trim MP4 Using ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate

If you’re looking for an all-in-one tool that can handle trimming, converting, and even enhancing MP4 files, ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is a solid choice. This software is like a Swiss Army knife for videos-it works great for both beginners and more advanced users.

While cutting an MP4 file, it provides you with various methods, like cutting an MP4 into several parts by average, cutting parts from an MP4 file, keeping the parts you want to keep, copying MP4 clips, and more.

Open the software and click on the Add Files button to upload the MP4 file you want to trim.

Besides, you can use the copy feature to duplicate an MP4 clip and split 1 MP4 file into average clips.

After selecting your preferred portion, hit the Save button. The software will quickly process the clip and save your trimmed MP4 video.

Verdict:

What we like: ArkThinker Video Converter Ultimate is super easy to use, offers a lot of customization options, and supports many file formats. It's fast and works on both Windows and Mac, so you're covered no matter what device you're using.

What we dislike: It’s not free, though it does come with a trial version. Also, while it's great for beginners, some advanced features might take a little getting used to.

Method 2: Trim MP4 Using Movavi Video Editor

Next up is Movavi Video Editor, which is another fantastic tool for trimming MP4 files. Movavi is perfect if you’re looking for something simple yet has all the key features you need for cutting and editing videos. Whether you’re new to video editing or you’ve dabbled before, Movavi will have you trimming MP4 files like a pro in no time.

Here are the steps to cut MP4 in Movavi Video Editor:

Drag the video file to the Timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Click the Split button (scissors icon) to cut the video at the marker.

Select the unwanted segment and press the Delete key or click the Trash icon.

Tips:

For cutting out parts in the middle, drag the red marker to the start of the unwanted section and click Split.

• Move the marker to the end of the unwanted section and click Split again.

• Select the unwanted segment and press Delete.

• If there are gaps left after deleting segments, right-click on the gap and choose Delete Gap or Delete All Gaps to close them.

Verdict:

What we like: Movavi is easy to use with its intuitive interface, and it’s packed with extra features like transitions and effects, which is awesome if you want to spice up your video. It’s a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate editors.

What we dislike: It’s not free, though Movavi does offer a trial version. The full version might be a little pricey if you're only looking for basic trimming features.

Method 3: Trim MP4 Using iMovie (For Mac Users)

If you're on a Mac, iMovie is a go-to for editing MP4 videos. It’s free, and it comes pre-installed with most Mac devices, so you don’t even have to download anything extra. iMovie is known for being beginner-friendly while still offering plenty of editing tools for when you're ready to dive deeper into video production.

Here are the steps of using iMovie to cut an MP4 file on a Mac.

For more details on trimming a video in iMovie, you can check it here.

Verdict:

What we like: iMovie is free, easy to use, and comes with a ton of built-in features for Mac users. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to trim MP4 on a Mac without needing third-party software.

What we dislike: iMovie is Mac-exclusive, so if you’re using Windows, this option won’t work for you. It also doesn’t have quite as many features as more advanced editors, but it’s great for basic trimming and editing.

FAQs

Conclusion