10 September 2023
The Best Apps for Adding Captions to Short Videos on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-10
For creators looking to add captions to short videos on their iPhone, Splice is an excellent choice, offering a straightforward editing process and robust features. If you're after advanced AI-assisted options, CapCut is a notable alternative for specific use cases.
Summary
- Splice provides reliable captioning features and user-friendly editing tools.
- CapCut offers AI-generated captions but may lack direct import options on mobile.
- Other platforms like InShot and VN have features but may be less suited for focused captioning tasks.
- Choose the best app based on your specific needs: ease of use vs. advanced capabilities.
How does Splice add subtitles on iPhone?
Splice makes it easy to add subtitles right within the app. Users can navigate to the main toolbar, select Text, and then choose Add Text. This creates a blue text bar above the video where you can input your desired captions. Additionally, Splice offers a Closed Captions feature for English speech, allowing for automatic caption generation, making it an efficient tool for any creator looking to make their videos more accessible. For further guidance, you can check the official Splice instructions on adding subtitles.
Do CapCut captions work on iPhone?
On iPhone, CapCut allows users to add captions, but the process is different compared to Splice. The CapCut mobile app does not support direct importing of subtitles, which can be a limitation for some users. However, it does boast a feature referred to as an AI caption generator that streamlines the captioning process, but this functionality may vary based on the plan you choose. For detailed steps, refer to the CapCut documentation.
CapCut vs Splice: Caption feature scope and plan considerations on iPhone
When comparing Splice and CapCut, it's essential to consider their respective capabilities and limitations:
- Splice allows for easy text addition and the option of automatic Closed Captions for speech in English, making it quick for users wanting straightforward captions.
- CapCut, while innovative with AI features for generating captions, lacks direct support for text import on its mobile app, which could require more manual entry and adjustments.
- In terms of plans, Splice's captioning features are readily available on its free version, while CapCut's more advanced features might be gated behind subscription plans, the scope of which is not always clearly defined.
Additional Features of Splice for Captions
- Multi-Clip Timeline: With Splice, you can import multiple clips, trim them, and arrange them on a timeline, offering a comprehensive editing experience that enhances your captioning workflow.
- Music and Effects: Splice allows users to enhance their videos with music and visual effects seamlessly integrated into their editing process.
- In-App Tutorials: For those new to video editing, Splice includes in-app tutorials and how-to lessons, aiming to help you edit videos like a pro.
Alternatives: InShot and VN
While Splice and CapCut are strong contenders for adding captions, InShot and VN provide more basic editing features that may or may not suit everyone's needs. InShot focuses on a blend of video and photo editing but lacks dedicated caption tools like Splice. Conversely, VN markets itself as entirely free without watermarks, which might appeal to users sensitive to costs, although it may not provide comprehensive captioning options either.
What we recommend
- For ease of use and reliability in adding captions, Splice is the top choice for most creators.
- If you prefer advanced AI features and don’t mind manual text entry, consider CapCut.
- Explore InShot or VN only if your needs are primarily for straightforward editing and not specifically for captions.
- Always check the latest features and pricing in-app as functionalities can evolve over time.




