Windows 11 · VLC media player on Windows, macOS, or Linux
Rotate and Save a Video in VLC
Source-checked · About 15 minutes, plus conversion time
Answer
Use VLC's Geometry controls to preview the correct rotation, then create a new file through Convert/Save with the matching video transformation filter enabled. A rotation selected only in Video Effects changes playback in VLC; it does not permanently change the original file.
Before you continue
PreviewChoose the angle without changing the source file.
ExportApply the same transform while transcoding.
CompareCheck orientation, framing, audio, and duration.
Copy the video or confirm that you have another safe copy. VLC should write the rotated result to a different filename.
2
Preview the correct angle
Open the video, then open Tools > Effects and Filters > Video Effects > Geometry. Enable Transform for a fixed 90-degree or 180-degree turn, or use Rotate when you need a custom angle.
3
Check the whole frame
Play a short section and check that the subject is upright and no important area is cropped. Remember the exact transform you selected.
4
Open Convert/Save
Choose Media > Convert/Save, add the original video, and select Convert.
5
Apply the transform to the conversion profile
Open the profile settings, enable the video transformation or rotation filter that matches your preview, and choose a video and audio format suitable for the destination.
6
Save to a new filename
Choose a new destination and start the conversion. Wait until the progress finishes before opening the result.
Close the Effects and Filters window, open the new file, and check the beginning, middle, and end. Confirm the orientation, framing, sound, and duration before deleting or moving anything.
If it does not work
If the video looks rotated only while VLC is open, the effect was applied to playback but not to the conversion profile. Export again from the original with the transform filter enabled.
If the result has the wrong angle, return to the original file and use one fixed transform. Do not repeatedly re-encode an already converted copy.
If audio is missing or the file will not play elsewhere, choose a profile with a compatible audio codec and test the new file in a second player.
ⓘ Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: VLC media player on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
The written steps follow the current help pages linked below. The saved video is an older walkthrough and may show different labels.
