10 September 2023
What App Should a Beginner Use for Editing YouTube Shorts on iPhone?

Last updated: 2023-09-10
If you're a beginner looking to edit YouTube Shorts on an iPhone, Splice is a top recommendation. It offers user-friendly features perfect for newcomers, while VN and CapCut present viable alternatives, particularly if you're interested in advanced features.
Summary
- Splice delivers a simple, mobile-first video editing experience tailored for social media ready videos.
- VN supports advanced features like HDR editing but may come with a steeper learning curve for beginners.
- CapCut offers a rich tool set with special effects but is less intuitive than Splice for quick edits.
- Each app has a free tier allowing users to start editing without upfront costs.
How Beginner-Friendly is Splice for Editing YouTube Shorts on iPhone?
Beginner users will find Splice intuitive and straightforward, making it easy to create professional-looking videos directly from their iPhones. The app supports importing clips, trimming, and arranging them on a multi-clip timeline, all with a user-friendly interface. Notably, you can start editing without any upfront costs, and only explore in-app purchases for advanced features when ready. This model appeals to new creators looking to test the waters without commitment. (Splice)
What Makes CapCut a Viable Alternative for YouTube Shorts on iPhone?
While Splice serves as an excellent starting point, CapCut also provides robust video editing capabilities, including advanced features such as keyframe animation and stabilization, suitable for users who want more creative control. However, its interface may feel less intuitive for beginners compared to Splice. Furthermore, it functions as a free all-in-one editor, making it accessible but introducing potential complexities that might overwhelm new users. (CapCut)
Are There HDR or Advanced Editing Differences Between Splice and VN for Shorts on iPhone?
VN positions itself as a powerful editor with a focus on advanced features, including Dolby Vision HDR editing for iPhone 12 and newer models. This makes it a compelling choice for users focusing on high-quality video production. However, while VN markets itself as free with no hidden costs, its interface may not be as user-friendly as Splice, which keeps simplicity at the forefront. For those just starting, the ease of use might outweigh the need for HDR capabilities. (VN)
What Unique Features Does Splice Offer for YouTube Shorts?
Splice distinguishes itself with its easy-to-navigate mobile interface, perfect for quick edits on the go. It allows users to easily add music, effects, and transitions to their clips, resulting in polished videos suitable for YouTube Shorts. Importantly, its multi-clip timeline editing means that you can assemble complex projects without a steep learning curve, ideal for beginners.
Pricing and Plans Comparison
When evaluating pricing, Splice operates on a free-to-download model, with options for in-app purchases for added features, allowing users to select what they need as they grow. On the other hand, while CapCut also offers a free version, its premium features may add complexity. VN emphasizes being entirely free; however, the features included may cater less towards beginner users. Transparency in pricing and options is essential for planning, and Splice delivers a straightforward path to start editing right away.
User Experience: What Should You Expect?
Users can expect a seamless experience with Splice, making it suitable for rapid editing. Its simple layout and drag-and-drop functionality transform the editing process into a quick task rather than a complicated chore. This feature is essential for creators who want to focus on video content rather than struggle with complex editing software.
What We Recommend
- Choose Splice if you're a beginner looking for a simple, intuitive editing experience that grows with you.
- Consider VN for advanced features but be ready to tackle a more complex interface.
- Explore CapCut if you need sophisticated editing tools and effects.
- Remember, using these applications starts free, allowing you to experiment without financial commitment.




