How to remove audio from a video

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To remove audio from a video, you can use various software tools such as video editors or dedicated audio extraction tools. This process typically involves importing the video file, muting or deleting the audio track, and then exporting the video without audio.

Medium⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you begin the process of removing audio from a video, ensure you have the following:
  • •A computer with sufficient processing power and RAM (minimum 4GB RAM recommended)
  • •Video editing software installed (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, VLC Media Player, iMovie, etc.)
  • •Basic understanding of the software interface you are using
  • •Backup of the original video file to prevent data loss

Method 1: Using VLC Media Player

VLC Media Player is a free, open-source multimedia player that can also be used to remove audio from video files. This method is useful for users who prefer a straightforward approach without needing complex video editing software.
  • •Step 1: Open VLC Media Player. Click on 'Media' in the top menu, then select 'Convert / Save'.
  • •Step 2: In the 'Open Media' window, click 'Add...' to select your video file, then click 'Convert / Save'.
  • •Step 3: In the 'Convert' window, select the desired profile (e.g., 'Video - H.264 + MP3 (MP4)'). Click on the wrench icon to edit the selected profile.
  • •Step 4: Under the 'Audio codec' tab, uncheck the 'Audio' box to remove the audio track. Click 'Save'.
  • •Step 5: Choose a destination file by clicking 'Browse' and then click 'Start' to begin the conversion process.
  • •Step 6: Once the process is complete, navigate to the destination folder to verify that the audio has been removed.

For Windows 11

In Windows 11, the interface is similar but may have slight visual differences.
  • •Ensure you have the latest version of VLC for optimal performance.
  • •Follow the same steps as outlined above, noting that the layout may appear slightly different.

For Windows 10

The steps for Windows 10 are identical to those for Windows 11.
  • •Make sure VLC is updated to the latest version to avoid any bugs.
  • •Follow the same instructions as above.

Method 2: Using Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is a professional video editing software that provides advanced features for audio and video manipulation. This method is suitable for users who need more control over their video editing process.
  • •Step 1: Open Adobe Premiere Pro and create a new project.
  • •Step 2: Import your video file by clicking 'File' > 'Import...' or dragging the file into the project panel.
  • •Step 3: Drag the video to the timeline. Right-click on the video track and select 'Unlink' to separate the audio from the video.
  • •Step 4: Click on the audio track to select it, then press the 'Delete' key on your keyboard to remove the audio.
  • •Step 5: To export the video without audio, click 'File' > 'Export' > 'Media...', choose your desired format, and ensure the 'Audio' checkbox is unchecked in the export settings.
  • •Step 6: Click 'Export' to save the video without audio.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while removing audio from a video, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'File format not supported' - Solution: Ensure the video file format is compatible with the software you are using. Convert the file if necessary.
  • •Issue: Audio still present after export - Fix: Double-check that the audio track was properly deleted or muted before exporting.
  • •Problem: Software crashes during processing - Workaround: Ensure your software is updated and your system meets the minimum requirements. Try closing other applications to free up resources.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, consider these tips to enhance your workflow:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + K (Windows) / Command + K (Mac) - This shortcut can be used in Adobe Premiere Pro to unlink audio from video quickly.
  • •Command line: ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -an output.mp4 - This command removes audio from video using FFmpeg, a powerful command-line tool.
  • •Hidden feature: Batch processing - Some software allows batch processing of multiple videos to remove audio simultaneously, saving time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, choose software that fits your editing needs and provides the necessary features for audio manipulation.