# Web vs Desktop Export

Source: [Web vs Desktop Export](<https://pr-586-preview.chatcut.dev/docs/web-export-limits>)

Documentation index: [llms.txt](<https://pr-586-preview.chatcut.dev/docs/llms.txt>)

Last updated: 2026-10-21

For video and audio on the web, use a supported browser with the project open. The Agent Plugin normally uses that editor’s browser renderer. ChatCut Desktop can render video locally when the project and required media are available there. Follow the current export panel and any compatibility message for the output you need.

| Where you work | Where rendering runs | How the file arrives | Keep available |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Manual web video/audio export, compatible browser | In the open browser | Downloaded or saved by that browser | Open project tab and intended Timeline |
| Agent Plugin, browser-local video/audio export | In the open browser | Downloaded by that browser | Connected editor, active Timeline, and open tab |
| ChatCut Desktop local video export | On your computer | Saved directly to the selected folder | Project and required media available on that computer |

## Export manually from the web app

1.  Select **Export** in the editor header, then choose the output type and settings.
2.  ChatCut checks the current browser, output settings, timeline media, motion graphics, and audio requirements. There is no renderer switch to choose manually.
3.  After starting the job, follow progress under the header **Export** button. Keep the tab open while a browser export is running.
4.  Use **Download again** or **View** afterward when that action appears.

Compatible video and audio exports run in the open browser. Depending on projected size and browser support, ChatCut either uses browser storage or asks where to save a large output. A compatible device can also offer 4K browser video export.

If the requested local output is unavailable, keep the project and original media and follow the displayed message before retrying.

## Export with the Agent Plugin

Ask the agent to export video or audio. By default, it renders in the browser tab with the project open. Keep the requested timeline active and that tab open until the file downloads.

If no connected editor can render the output, the agent reports an error. Open the project in a supported browser, activate the requested timeline, resolve any reported compatibility issue, and retry.

## If local export is unavailable

Keep the project and original media. If the message says local export is temporarily unavailable, try again later as directed. If it identifies browser or output-setting support, try a compatible browser or the suggested codec or resolution. If it identifies a timeline graphic or audio issue, resolve that issue before retrying.

## Export video locally in ChatCut Desktop

Before switching to Desktop, confirm that the project and original media you need are available there.

1.  In ChatCut Desktop, select **Export → Video**.
2.  Choose dynamic range, resolution, frame rate, and export range.
3.  Choose a destination folder and start the export. Keep Desktop open while it renders.
4.  When it finishes, select **Show in Finder** or **Open**.

Desktop local video export saves directly to the selected folder. Choose among the resolution and dynamic-range options available in your current Desktop export panel. Available options and actual speed depend on the version, computer performance, codec support, timeline complexity, and output settings.

These steps describe Desktop’s local video export. Audio, transparent graphics, and bundled handoffs can have different requirements; check the selected output’s current panel and detailed guide before starting.

## Credits and output limits

Export does not spend ChatCut credits. Browser and device compatibility, supported formats, and plan permissions still apply. Individual outputs can still require Pro—for example transparent ProRes 4444 motion graphics. Credits and export permissions are separate; check the current output panel and your plan before choosing an output.

See [Free and Pro](https://pr-586-preview.chatcut.dev/docs/free-and-pro), [Desktop Local Export and 4K](https://pr-586-preview.chatcut.dev/docs/desktop-local-export), and [Export Queue, Downloads, and Retries](https://pr-586-preview.chatcut.dev/docs/export-history).