Turning Your Edit Into a Video File
Exporting is the final step: CapCut renders your timeline into one playable video file you can post, send, or keep.
Exporting
- Click Export in the top-right corner.
- Set the file name and where to save it.
- Choose your settings (details below), then click Export again.
- Wait for the progress bar to finish, then click Open folder to find your file.
Export settings explained
- Resolution: 1080p is standard for YouTube and most videos. 4K is larger and sharper but takes longer.
- Frame rate: 30 fps is the default; 60 fps is smoother for fast action.
- Format: MP4 works everywhere — use it.
- Bitrate: higher = better quality + bigger file. The default “Recommended” is fine.
Aspect ratio (shape of the video)
- 16:9 — widescreen, for YouTube and TVs.
- 9:16 — vertical, for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
- 1:1 — square, for some social feeds.
Set the aspect ratio when you start a project (or change it any time). Auto reframe can automatically re-center a video when you switch it to vertical.
Sharing directly
CapCut can post straight to TikTok or YouTube if you’re logged in. For a school project, export the MP4 file and submit or share the file itself.
Try it yourself
Export your finished video as an MP4 at 1080p, then play it back outside CapCut to make sure it looks and sounds right.
Course on media.sacaa.org — free for any visitor, no login required. Work through lessons in order.