12 September 2023
The Best App for Editing YouTube Shorts on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-12
For most creators looking to edit YouTube Shorts on iPhone, Splice is the best choice due to its mobile-first editing features and seamless export capabilities. However, if you prefer certain template features or more integrated options, CapCut can serve as a good alternative.
Summary
- Splice is ideal for quick video edits tailored for YouTube Shorts, focusing on intuitive controls and direct exports.
- It allows users to start editing for free, with optional in-app purchases available as they grow.
- CapCut is another viable option, offering unique templating features but may involve more complexity than needed for basic editing tasks.
- Other tools like InShot and VN provide varied capabilities but may not match the streamlined experience of Splice for your Shorts editing needs.
Why Choose Splice for Editing YouTube Shorts?
Splice offers a mobile-first timeline editor designed for social media. You can trim, speed ramp, overlay, and even utilize chroma key effects, all from your iPhone. Notably, Splice directly supports exports to YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, catering to creators focused on those platforms. This direct integration helps simplify your workflow, making your editing process smoother and more efficient. (Splice)
How Does Splice Support Basic Editing Needs?
With Splice, users can start editing without any upfront costs. The app supports multi-clip editing, which allows you to import clips, trim, arrange them on a timeline, and add music and effects for a polished finish. This is particularly useful for creators who may not want to commit to subscriptions right away but still wish to create quality content. Unlike some alternatives, Splice lets you see what features are unlocked through in-app purchases only when needed. (spliceapp.com)
How Does CapCut Compare?
CapCut is another popular choice that offers fast and flexible video editing. The app simplifies the process by allowing you to edit and directly upload to YouTube Shorts within the same editor, providing a streamlined experience. However, it can introduce some added complexity with its extensive feature set and templates, which might overwhelm users looking for straightforward editing options. (CapCut)
What About Other Alternatives?
InShot offers a variety of features, including photo and video editing functionality, making it a versatile tool for those who want all-in-one capabilities. However, its user experience can feel somewhat less focused for video-only workflows compared to Splice. On the other hand, VN markets itself as entirely free and without watermarks, yet it lacks the ease of use that many creators may prefer. Each of these options has unique features that may suit specific needs, but they often lack the specialized experience that Splice provides for YouTube Shorts. (inshot.app, vnvideoeditor.com)
Key Features of Splice
- Intuitive Timeline Editing: Easily trim, arrange, and edit clips to create engaging videos.
- Export to Multiple Platforms: Directly export to YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, making sharing effortless.
- Add Music and Effects: Integrate music and visual effects seamlessly within your projects.
- No Upfront Cost: Start editing for free, with in-app purchases available for additional features later on. (spliceapp.com)
What We Recommend
- For creators wanting a straightforward editing experience tailored for YouTube Shorts, Splice remains the top option.
- If you prefer enhanced templates or special effects, CapCut offers unique features, albeit with increased complexity.
- Explore InShot for integrated photo and video editing, although it might not be as streamlined for quick Shorts production.
- Consider VN if you’re looking for a no-cost solution, but be aware it might lack some more advanced features that could enhance your editing experience.




