Due to their software limitations, Chromebooks often get a bad rep, especially when it comes to more complex tasks like video editing. Many people simply assume these lightweight devices aren’t designed to handle anything beyond basic web browsing or document editing. But that’s not exactly true.
With the right tools and workarounds, Chromebooks can actually be surprisingly capable. If you want to learn how to easily dodge their specific limitations and turn your Chromebook into a video editing powerhouse, keep on reading!
Video editing on Chromebook: frustrating or fun?
The burning question remains: can you edit videos on a Chromebook without compromising on quality or rage quitting within the hour? Spoiler alert: yes, you can!
However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before diving straight into your next video project:
Storage can be tight
If you’ve recently switched to ChromeOS after years of using Windows or macOS, you might notice that Chromebook’s storage feels a bit tight. That’s because Chromebooks are designed with cloud storage in mind, making local storage less of a priority.
But don’t worry – you can always rely on cloud storage platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox to save your work – from simple clips or images to entire video projects. Or, you can go a step further and do all your editing online using an online Chromebook video editor like Flixier.
Multi-tasking is tricky
If there’s one thing to be said about video editing, it’s that it can quickly make your fan spin into overdrive… especially on a Chromebook. Even if you do manage to install some apps on this device, running too many of them at once can quickly push your Chromebook to its limits.
Chromebooks don’t like traditional apps
When it comes to video editing apps for Chromebooks, you might be in for a little disappointing surprise. See, Chromebooks aren’t designed to run traditional software you might be used to on Windows or macOS devices, so your best bet is to choose a web-based tool that doesn’t require downloads or installations.
The best-kept secret of Chromebook video editing
The limited storage, modest performance, and lack of support for traditional video editing apps might make you think twice about using a Chromebook for editing videos. But that doesn’t mean you should give up just yet. The trick is to get creative.
What kind of tool would be able to rise up and tackle these challenges? A video editor that operates directly in your browser, requires no downloads or installs, and automatically saves your work in the cloud.
Our first thought goes to Flixier, an online video editor for Chromebook that runs so smoothly your computer fan might forget it’s running. Jokes aside – Flixier is a versatile editor that gives you all the tools you need to edit videos with confidence, even if your device’s specs are less than impressive.
Editing videos on Chromebook with Flixier: 4 easy steps
The beauty of a browser-based Chromebook video editor is that all you need to get started is an internet connection – no downloads, installations, or other workarounds required. It’s the simplest, most headache-free way of editing videos on a Chromebook.
Here’s how you do it:
Open Flixier
Open a new tab in your browser and type in Flixier.com, or simply look up Flixier on Google. Once you’re on the homepage, hit that Get Started button, and voilà – you’ll be whisked away to the editing dashboard.
Import your media
Next, click the Import/Record button to start uploading your video or audio files. If you don’t have any media stored on your device – which may often be the case on Chromebooks – you can also bring media from cloud storage or streaming platforms or even from your phone via QR code.
Edit your videos
Once your files are all processed, the editing process can properly begin. At this point, you can let your creativity run wild – blending clips, adding smooth transitions, playful animations, colorful filters, and auto-synced captions.
Export and share
When you’re happy with your work, hit Export to save it. You have the standard option of downloading your media to your computer, but since you’re working with limited local storage, you can simply choose to save your files on a cloud storage space like Dropbox or even share them online to social media.
Improvise, edit, overcome!
Chrome OS might be known for tossing a few curveballs when it comes to video editing, but by using a free video editor for Chromebook like Flixier, you can keep doing what you love without jumping ship to another operating system.