Split Screen and Putting Two Videos Side by Side

Split-screen videos are everywhere these days. They’ve become increasingly popular with the rise of “before and after” videos, reaction videos, and video collages. Just open TikTok, Instagram, or another social media app, and you’re sure to find one.
Creating side-by-side videos can be tricky, even if you have professional editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro. We’re here to make the process simple. Here’s what you need to know to create your own split-screen video.
- What Are Split-Screen (Side-by-Side) Videos?
- How to Put Two Videos Side by Side Using CyberLink PowerDirector
- How to Put Multiple Videos Into One Screen Using CyberLink PowerDirector
- Use PowerDirector to Make More Than Side-by-Side Videos
- Frequently Asked Questions on Side-by-Side (Split-Screen) Videos
- Conclusion
What Are Split-Screen (Side-by-Side) Videos?
Split-screen videos occur in film and video when two separate clips are playing simultaneously side by side. This format contrasts with traditional filmmaking, where one single camera feed or image is in the frame at a time. Some video editors use this effect to disrupt the viewing experience, to compare or contrast the images from the two camera feeds, or to add visual effects.
Before the modern digital era, split screens required optical printers. The device contained multiple film projectors linked to a camera so that a projectionist could project more than one image at once and the camera could then film the two images together. The advent of digital technology made creating a video overlay much more time and cost-effective and also improved the quality of the images.
How to Put Two Videos Side by Side Using CyberLink PowerDirector
Cut, add titles and effects, edit audio and export – PowerDirector 365 offers best-in-class editing with an intuitive workflow. Create compelling split screen videos with ease with it’s Video Collage Designer. No matter your level of proficiency, you can create spectacular videos.
Follow these simple steps to create a split screen using Video Collage Designer in PowerDirector.
Step 1: In the “Plugins” drop down menu at the top select Video Collage Designer.

Step 2: Import media clips you would like to use and select which style layout you would like to use for your split screen.

Step 3: Drag and drop a video clip to each of the numbered sections in the split screen layout.

Step 4: Hover over the video to see the adjustment settings. You can trim, adjust volume of sound as well as zoom in and out. You can adjust the clip framing by dragging video around in the layout. If you want to remove a video clip just drag it outside of the layout frame.

Step 5: Once you have your clips placed, adjust your border settings on the right.

Step 6: Scroll down on the right side to adjust the frame animation. If you want to create a traditional static split screen, turn the frame animation off.

Step 7: Open “Advanced Settings” to adjust the playback of your video clips. Match your collage duration to “Shortest Clip” so your split screen will be the length of your shortest video otherwise it will turn into a freeze frame until the other video has finished playing.

Step 8: Click “Ok” when you are happy with your split screen to add it to your timeline.
How to Put Multiple Videos Into One Screen Using CyberLink PowerDirector
Want to add more than two videos to your split screen? Check out this tutorial to make animated, multi-video split screens.
Use PowerDirector to Make More Than Side-by-Side Videos
CyberLink PowerDirector is a fast, free, and full-featured video editing software that bridges the gap between professional and amateur productions. The program offers the latest technologies and features while remaining accessible to users of all ability levels. While many people use it to create side-by-side videos, it can do much more.
Some of PowerDirector’s stand out features include:- 360-degree video editing
- 4K and 3K capabilities
- Action camera tools
- Content-aware editing
- Motion tracking
- MultiCam Designer
While the expansive toolbox can appear overwhelming, PowerDirector presents editors with a clean and easy-to-navigate interface. You’ll only be a few clicks away whether you want to add a transition or some eye-catching text. CyberLink continues to add new and innovative tools to its video editing software.The program also supports most video formats, so you never have to worry about compatibility.
The video editor handles action camera footage from leading brands like GoPro, Koda, and Sony. PowerDirector has a dedicated Action Camera Center where you can apply different effects to alter video’s speed and appearance. You can even counteract the inherent fisheye look that comes with some action cameras with PowerDirector’s camera-based corrections.
PowerDirector works on Microsoft Windows 10, 8/8.1, 7, as well as macOS 10.14. The application takes up 7 GB of hard disk space and requires at least 4 GB of memory. You can also download the app for Androids, iPhones, and iPads at Google Play and the App Store.
Frequently Asked Questions on Side-by-Side (Split-Screen) Videos
How do I make a split video for free?
PowerDirector is a free video editor that you can use to make a split video. The software is available for download at the CyberLink website, as well as Google Play and the App Store. The split-screen video maker gives you all the tools you’ll need to create compelling content.
How do you do side-by-side videos on iPhones and iPads?
The PowerDirector Video Editor app allows users to create side-by-side videos on iPhones and iPads. The split-screen video maker offers a simple and intuitive way to trim, crop, and edit clips next to each other. PowerDirector supports videos up to 4K resolution so that the final product will have a professional-grade look and feel.
Conclusion
Get started making side-by-side videos with PowerDirector today. You can download it from the CyberLink website for free.
If you're an aspiring editor looking to create cool videos, head on over to our complete guide on video editing effects. We've also got other great articles in our blog that'll introduce you to all the tools you need to enhance your portfolio.