When it comes to video editing and photo editing on computers in the past, many of you probably immediately think of Windows Movie Maker. It used to be an indispensable ‘companion’ for many people just starting to cut and splice videos or create slideshow memories. This free software from Microsoft was once very popular, but is it still worth using today? Let’s explore it with Softbuzz.
Why Did Windows Movie Maker Used to ‘Storm the Scene’?
Back then, Windows Movie Maker was loved intensely for good reasons.
First, its extremely friendly and easy-to-use interface. Beginners in video creation or even older users needing simple clips could drag, drop, and edit seamlessly. No need to be a professional, which is the beauty of it.
Next is the effects and transition library, although not as large as modern professional software, it’s sufficient for DIY videos. From blurring effects, shadowing, to fun transition styles, Windows Movie Maker helps your videos look more lively and attractive.
An additional point is its convenient video sharing capability. Once the clip is done, you can upload directly to social networks like Facebook, YouTube quickly. Back then, this feature was quite ‘premium’.
The software also supports many popular file formats for both images and sounds, videos such as PNG, JPG, MP3, WMA, MPG, BMP, AVI… This makes it easy to import various sources for editing without worries about compatibility.
Oh, and it also has a preview feature. Before publishing the final product, you can review it to make adjustments. Very handy to make sure the video turns out as desired. Later versions even added features like adding watermark, removing pauses, which are quite useful.
What You Need to Know About Windows Movie Maker Today
However, you should note that the ‘golden age’ of Windows Movie Maker has passed. Here are some important points:
First, Microsoft officially stopped supporting and developing Windows Movie Maker from 2017. This means no new updates, security patches, and it is no longer integrated into new Windows versions like Windows 10 or Windows 11.
Therefore, if you want to use it, you’ll need to find external sources to download and install, which involves risks of viruses or malware. Additionally, its features are now quite outdated and limited compared to other modern video editing software, including free ones.
Conclusion
Windows Movie Maker was once an excellent, simple, and effective video editing software for beginners. It is associated with many users’ memories. However, it is no longer supported by Microsoft and its features do not meet the increasingly high demands. If you only need basic cut and splice functions and accept the risks of installing from unofficial sources, it might still be useful. But if you want more features, stability, and safety, it’s probably time to consider more modern alternatives.
