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Why can’t I download Windows Movie Maker?

Niamh Lynch

Niamh Lynch

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Here at Softonic we get a lot of comments about Windows Movie Maker. Some people are surprised that there’s no download button on the program page, and others can’t figure out why there are so many versions and why it’s so complicated to find the one they need. If you’ve ever been confused, read on!

What version of Windows Movie Maker you need depends entirely on your operating system:

Windows XP

You’ve probably got it easiest, XP users! Movie Maker 2.1 was included in service packs 2 and 3, which you’ve probably already installed by now. If you haven’t, download them asap, because as well as Movie Maker, they include other essential security and other functionality fixes.

If you want to know what Movie Maker 2.1 offers, read our review, but remember that you can’t actually download the program – it’s bundled as part of the service packs. If you’re looking for a non-Microsoft alternative, try VideoSpin.

Windows Vista

When Vista was released, Movie Maker got updated to Windows Live Movie Maker 2011. This is part of Windows Live Essentials, Microsoft’s collection of essential, must-have apps. If you’re on Vista, have Windows Live Essentials installed and STILL can’t use Windows Live Movie Maker, make sure you’ve installed Windows Vista Service Pack 2 and Platform Update. If you’re still having a problem, try downloading it separately here, but bear in mind that you have to use the Windows Live Essentials installer and, as a result, you need to be vigilant so as not to install other apps that you don’t want, like the odious Windows Live Messenger.

All that sounds too complicated? Try VideoPad, an app that doesn’t look as good, but does an excellent job.

Windows 7

Windows 7 doesn’t come with Windows Live Movie Maker, but it is compatible, so you can download it separately if you need. What we said earlier about it being part of Windows Live Essentials still stands, though, so watch out on that download! Windows Live Movie Maker is a solid, uncomplicated program and, for some users, is exactly what they need. Others, though, might be interested in a little more oomph, and since Windows 7 is a powerful operating system, this might be the moment to get adventurous. Have a look at this blog post and see if any of the programs we’ve described might fit your needs.

Windows 8

So far, we haven’t seen a Microsoft app for the latest Windows incarnation, Windows 8, but then again, it’s only in the earliest stages of production. Hopefully the Microsoft will come up with something, as Movie Maker is still a very popular app. Although it’s not the most powerful out there, lots of people are very comfortable with it, and it meets all their needs.

Have you tried any video editors on Windows 8 (or elsewhere) that live up to the Movie Maker legacy?

Niamh Lynch

Niamh Lynch

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