Updated October 2026 · Video sound
Audio drifts out of sync after export usually because of a mismatch in frame rate, variable frame rate footage, or a sample-rate conversion in the export settings. Check the project and export frame rates match the source, convert variable footage to constant frame rate, then export a short test.
A video that looks perfect in the editor but drifts after export is one of the most frustrating problems in video work. The sound and picture were correct on the timeline, so the cause is usually a setting that changed during export. The fix is a few checks, and a short test before the full export.
If the project frame rate does not match the source footage, the editor may stretch or drop frames. The audio stays at its length, so the picture and sound drift apart over time. Match the project frame rate to the footage, and check the export uses the same rate.
Some phones and cameras record variable frame rate video, which changes speed during the clip. Editors can struggle with it, and the sync can drift. Convert the footage to a constant frame rate before editing, using a transcoder or a re-export.
If the audio was recorded at one sample rate and exported at another, the editor converts it. A correct conversion does not cause drift, but a faulty one can. Keep the project and export sample rates the same as the recording, where possible.
Export a thirty-second section that includes a clap or a clear sound, then check the sync in the exported file, not in the editor. A short test saves time and shows the problem before you export the full video.
If the export has drifted, re-export with corrected settings rather than trying to stretch the audio by hand, which can leave the speech sounding odd. For future projects, record a sync point, keep the frame rate constant, and check a short export before the final one.
Drift can have several causes, and some are in the source footage. If the drift remains after the settings are correct, check the original file, and consider re-recording the affected section.
Spot clipping, noise, rumble and level problems. Runs in your browser, nothing is uploaded.
Footage where the frame rate changes during the clip. Editors can struggle with it, so convert it to constant frame rate.
A frame rate or clock mismatch is accumulating. Check the frame rate and the source footage.
Only as a last resort. Re-exporting with correct settings is cleaner.
Export a short section with a clap or sharp sound, then check the sync in the exported file.
