Clipchamp, the video editing platform acquired by Microsoft in 2021, has established itself as one of the easiest options to use for both content creators and casual users.
With a focus on simplicity and increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, this tool from Copilot’s smart suite allows you to transform videos with just a few clicks.
Additionally, it is available by default on any Windows 11 installation and most of its features are free. All advantages, right? The reality is that it has many detractors, who highlight its slowness and recurring failures.
Given its relevance and ubiquity, it is worth exploring its main functionalities and, in particular, the AI features that are helping users streamline and improve their editing process.
Clipchamp: In a word, simple
Clipchamp was launched in 2013 as an online video editing tool. Since then, it has evolved considerably, and with the support of Microsoft, has expanded its functionality and has become a desktop application.
This allows users to work on projects without relying exclusively on an internet connection.
Clipchamp stands out mainly for its focus on accessibility: you don’t need to be an editing expert to achieve attractive results, as it offers templates, predefined effects and automated tools that make the process easier.
Not everything is free
The subscription options have also made Clipchamp a viable option for other types of users. The free version allows you to export at up to 1080p resolution, which is suitable for social networks and personal projects.
However, if the goal is to achieve higher quality and access additional content, such as audio tracks or video effects, the paid subscription allows you to export to 4K and access a library of premium content. The subscription also includes online backup, through OneDrive.
AI in Clipchamp: Tools that facilitate creativity
Microsoft has incorporated several AI tools into Clipchamp that not only help optimize the time spent editing, but also add a professional touch to each project.
Automatic video creation
When starting a project, the user can opt for this functionality that, when loading their multimedia files and setting a title, automatically organizes the images, videos and music.
Clipchamp’s AI suggests styles and transitions, and even allows the user to give quick feedback via approve or reject buttons.
With this, the system can adapt recommendations to the user’s taste, facilitating quick editing for those looking for immediate results without having to work through every detail of the timeline.
This functionality saves time, especially for creators working on repetitive projects or quick productions for social networks.
Mind you, the tool is very susceptible to making questionable aesthetic decisions, so it will more than likely require additional adjustments to the timeline for a fully polished finish.
Text to Speech
Clipchamp’s text-to-speech generator allows you to add voiceover in over 170 languages, with a selection of over 400 AI voices. Users can adjust tonality and intonation to give the impression of natural narration tailored to the tone of the video.
This tool is particularly useful for educational content creators and companies looking to quickly generate multimedia presentations or product demos.
Additionally, the fact that voices can be modified in gender and style provides flexibility, allowing creators to achieve the exact tonality they want for their projects.
The ability to narrate in multiple languages is also an added value for those who want to reach international audiences.
Automatic subtitles
Subtitles are an essential tool to improve the accessibility and reach of videos, as they allow people with hearing difficulties or who prefer to watch content in silence to follow the thread of the message.
With Clipchamp’s auto-subtitle tool, users can automatically add subtitles in over 140 languages. **
The system uses AI to transcribe the audio and add text directly over the video, saving the effort of manually subtitling.
In addition, Clipchamp allows you to customize the style of the subtitles, adjusting the font, color and other visual aspects so that they integrate properly with the aesthetics of the video.
However, although automatic transcription is generally accurate, proofreading is advisable as there may be slight errors in some dialects or complex phrases.
Voice Assistant: Speaker Coach
Speaker Coach is one of Clipchamp’s most innovative AI features, designed to improve the quality of spoken recordings.
This assistant analyzes the speed, pitch and intonation of the voice in real time, and provides suggestions to the user to adjust their speaking. **
This tool is particularly useful for those recording on camera, as it allows you to train in communication skills while recording, ensuring clearer and more effective speech.
In addition to helping improve video quality, Speaker Coach can be an educational tool, allowing users to develop communication skills and confidence on camera.
Sound and music editing
Clipchamp also offers a library of over 180 royalty-free audio tracks, which users can add as background music to their videos.
Although AI does not play a prominent role in audio selection, it makes it easier to synchronize sound with visual content.
Additionally, users can separate and adjust the audio track from the video, and with a simple click can mute parts of the recording, adding flexibility in sound editing.
Limitations of Clipchamp
Despite its versatility, Clipchamp has obvious limitations. Those looking for more advanced editing or accustomed to more comprehensive tools may not value Clipchamp’s ease of use the same as beginners.
Clipchamp lacks features such as motion tracking, advanced audio filters and specific file output settings. Additionally, some other features are only available through premium subscriptions.
As for the premium subscription, it costs $11.99 per month, which puts it in the same segment as other simple video editors like Capcut Pro, which are better rated by its users.
Clipchamp isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay
Honestly, the average Clipchamp user isn’t much different from those who used Windows 10’s Video Editor or previous versions’ Movie Maker. People who need to crop, or just stitch together some photos and videos.
However, AI functionalities are new. Automatic video creation, text-to-speech, and auto-subtitles make it an excellent option for those looking for speed and quality in their creations without facing a steep learning curve.
With free plans that allow access to good resolution and advanced options in its paid subscriptions, Clipchamp has the potential to suit both casual users and growing content creators.
However, those looking for complete control over every aspect of their productions could consider more advanced alternatives, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Davinci Resolve.
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