Designed to capture and process video
VirtualDub is a video editing program designed for use as a general utility tool. Its main focus is AVI file processing, and it can trim a large number of video files in an instant.
Trim and clean up video fast
The program interface within VirtualDub is clean, and the workflow is efficient.
When you open the program, you can see that the interface is a little old fashioned, and could do with a revamp. This isn’t a big issue, as VirtualDub still boasts many beneficial features. Although AVI is the whole of VirtualDub, it is still possible to import other file types as needed. There are some import plugins, and external encoders you can take advantage of.
The interface and the workflow make editing easy, and fast. It will take some time to get used to as on first glance, and it can seem confusing. Once you get the hang of it, you will find the workflow is perfect for the task in hand.
VirtualDub is excellent when it comes to extracting audio. It can complete the task non-destructively, without encoding, so is quick. It’s easy to swap out an MP3, and replace it with a WAV, for example.
One potential downside is that some of the more modern file types do not have plugins available. These cannot run through VirtualDub. To avoid issues, make sure you know what file type you are using, and make sure it’s compatible.
Where can you run this program?
VirtualDub is available for Windows 98, and later. The program is not currently available for Mac OS or Linux.
Is there a better alternative?
No, not for AVI, and other supported file types. You could use Handbrake, but the workflow is not user-friendly. Avidemux is another possible option. Yet, this has many other functions which cost you simplicity.
Our take
The software is excellent for its time, and specific primary function. You should check it out if you know you will usually be using AVI file types.
Should you download it?
Yes, the software is free to download, so there is no risk. Even if you need to process other file types, you can still use this for AVI files.
