Published on May 8, 2025 4 min read

Best HandBrake Alternative to Merge Video Files Easily (2025 Guide)

Have you ever found yourself with a collection of short video clips that you wish to compile into a single, cohesive video? Whether it's vacation footage, gaming highlights, or project clips for school, you need a tool that simplifies this process. While HandBrake is a popular choice for video tasks, it isn't designed for easy video merging. If you're looking for something more efficient, there are superior alternatives available. Let's explore why you might consider an alternative and how it can simplify merging your videos.

Why HandBrake Isn’t Ideal for Merging Videos

HandBrake excels in converting video formats and reducing file sizes, supporting a wide range of file types. However, when it comes to merging videos into a single file, it doesn't provide a straightforward solution. The process involves complex steps such as encoding separate files and manually stitching them together, which can feel more like solving a puzzle than making a quick edit.

For most users, especially those looking for a quick solution, this process is unnecessarily complicated. You don't need to delve into bitrates, containers, or encoding settings. You simply want your clips to play seamlessly without losing quality. This is where better alternatives come into play, offering user-friendly interfaces that don't require technical expertise.

Good alternatives will allow you to arrange videos, preview them, and export a single, polished file without dealing with complex settings. Some even offer basic trimming features to ensure your final video looks neat. These tools are ideal for casual users who desire simplicity and efficiency.

Top Alternatives to HandBrake for Merging Videos

Shotcut

Shotcut is a free, cross-platform video editor available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. While it offers full video editing capabilities, its user-friendly interface makes it easy to merge videos. Simply drag and drop your clips into the timeline in the desired order, preview the result, and export as a single video. Shotcut maintains video quality when set to match the original settings.

Clideo Video Merger

Clideo Video Merger offers an even more straightforward solution. As a web-based tool, there's no need for downloads. Upload your clips, rearrange if necessary, and merge them directly in your browser. This is a great option if you prefer not to install software or are working on a Chromebook or shared computer. Keep in mind that upload times may vary based on your internet speed.

Movavi Video Editor

Movavi Video Editor is a paid tool that is highly user-friendly. It provides a polished experience with drag-and-drop functionality and additional features like transitions between clips for a more professional look. Movavi ensures high-quality final videos, making it perfect for important projects like presentations or significant events.

Each of these tools eliminates the complex setup often associated with HandBrake, offering clear interfaces and easy navigation for merging videos.

How to Merge Videos Using an Alternative Tool: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let's walk through the process using Shotcut as an example, although the steps are similar across other recommended tools.

Step 1: Download and Open the Software

Begin by downloading Shotcut from its official website. It's a free and safe tool. Install it just like any other program and open it.

Step 2: Create a New Project

Upon opening Shotcut, you'll be prompted to start a new project. Name it whatever you like and select a folder to save your project files.

Step 3: Add Your Video Files

Click “Open File” to select all the clips you wish to merge. You can add them all at once or individually. They will appear in the playlist area.

Step 4: Arrange Your Clips

Drag each clip into the timeline at the bottom, arranging them in your preferred sequence. You can easily rearrange them if needed.

Step 5: Trim if Needed

If any clip has extra footage at the beginning or end, simply click on the clip's edge and drag to trim it down.

Step 6: Export the Merged Video

When satisfied with the arrangement, click “Export.” Opt for default settings if you wish to preserve the original quality. Click “Export File,” choose a save location, and let it process.

And there you have it—a seamless, single video created from your clips without any hassle.

• Using Clideo is even simpler: upload → arrange → merge → download.
• Movavi offers a similar experience to Shotcut, but with a more vibrant and organized interface, along with helpful tips.

Conclusion

While HandBrake is excellent for compressing videos, it isn't the best choice for quick and easy merging. For a more straightforward approach to combining videos into one file, consider tools like Shotcut, Clideo Video Merger, and Movavi Video Editor. These options provide an intuitive way to arrange clips, preview them, trim as needed, and export a smooth final video without compromising quality. Whether you prefer a free application, an online service, or a feature-rich tool, there's a perfect solution to make your video merging experience easy and efficient.