MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 makes video editing easy. In this review, I’ll examine its features and see why it’s a solid choice for beginners.
Video editing tools are essential for sharing content on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, etc. MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 lets you quickly trim, add subtitles, and apply effects to improve your videos.
I’ve only used basic video editors like Windows Photos as a beginner, so I tried MiniTool’s MovieMaker to see what it could do. To my surprise, it offers everything I need for simple editing tasks.

Main Features of MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1
- Aspect Ratio Settings
- Adjust Video Speed
- Trim, Split, and Crop
- Audio and Video Effects
- Add Subtitles
- Flip and Rotate Videos
- Ready-Made Templates for Quick Edits

MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 offers a free version and paid options. It’s wise to start with the free video editor version to see if it meets your needs. If it does, you can opt for a subscription or a one-time purchase for a lifetime license. The Ultimate Plan covers up to three PCs and is currently 40% off, making it a cost-effective choice for beginners.
Installing MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1
Installing MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 is a breeze. Download the installer from the official website, and within minutes, you’ll be ready to start editing. The software’s straightforward setup process is designed to save you time and make it ideal for beginners.
Editing with MiniTool MovieMaker

After installation, open the software and click “New Project” to begin. Click “Import Media File” to import your video and select your footage. Once imported, click the red “+” to add it to the timeline.

MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 boasts a user-friendly design. You won’t need to read a manual—the tools are easy for beginners to use immediately, giving you a sense of comfort and ease.
Trimming
Trimming is the basic technique for video editing.

If you click on the frame in the image below, you can move the blue bar, and a scissors mark will appear.
So I press the scissors button… and woah, it cuts!

Select the frames you don’t need and click the trash can icon (or right-click and select Delete). It will trim them properly!
Insert subtitle text
The next most common thing is inserting text, such as subtitles.
I wonder if this can be done from the “Text” in the upper left. If you click on it, various subtitle patterns appear.

For now, select Caption1 and press the “+” button just like you did with the video, and it looks like you’ll be able to add the subtitles successfully!
The text content can be edited using the Text Property in the upper right.

You can adjust the time the text is displayed by dragging and dropping the purple area at the bottom left!
Trimming and inserting subtitles are basic operations in video editing. Still, even if you’re using it for the first time, you can use it quickly and without hesitation, so it’s convenient!
Now, let’s try some more advanced editing.
Transitions
However, the basic operation method is roughly the same for other devices.
Select Transitions to the right of the Text.
Similarly, various patterns will appear, so drag and drop them between the videos as appropriate.

Similarly, when I tried to do this with the “+” button, there were some positions where it worked well and somewhere it didn’t.
It could be a problem with how I use it. Drag-and-drop is more stable, so I recommend it.
Video editing can be a real pain, and even simple edits can take a surprisingly long time, but with this, even beginners can make videos quickly!
Saving and Exporting Your Video
Finally, I want to show you how to save this edited project and output the edited video.
This is also easy. Click the three lines in the upper right corner to “File,” → “Save Project,” and save the project file.

When you want to resume editing, you can load the project file from “Open Project.”
Next, exporting the edited video is easy; click the “Export” button in the top right corner of the screen where the video is played in the center.
Yes, I haven’t read the official user manual at all up to this point! Lol

It was intuitive, and I never had any trouble editing videos!
It’s recommended for beginners.
Why MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 Works Well
Compared to other video editors like Windows Photos, PowerDirector, and Filmora, MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 stands out for its ease of use. Here’s what makes it a good option:
- Easy Interface: It’s designed for beginners who want to start editing without hassle.
- Quick and Efficient: The software lets you edit videos quickly without lag.
- Cost-Effective: MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 offers excellent value, especially with the option to buy a lifetime license.
Final Line
MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 is a great choice for anyone needing simple, free video editing software. Whether you’re editing family videos, tech tutorials, or social media content, this software gives you the tools you need to do the job without complexity.
Also see: MiniTool ShadowMaker 4.4 Review
The paid versions offer additional options for those who need more advanced features. With its ease of use and low cost, MiniTool MovieMaker 8.1 is one of the top video editing tools for beginners.