1 September 2023
Best Apps for Creators Switching from iMovie on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-01
If you're transitioning from iMovie to something more suited for mobile use, we recommend Splice as the ideal video editing app for iPhone. It offers a seamless experience that captures the essence of iMovie while empowering you to create social-ready videos on-the-go. For advanced features, you might consider CapCut, though it may require a learning curve.
Summary
- Splice is user-friendly, perfect for social media editing, and costs nothing to download.
- CapCut provides advanced features like keyframe animation but can be more complex.
- Both apps allow starting without upfront payment, so you can explore before committing financially.
- Check specific app store listings for features and pricing, as these can vary.
Why Choose Splice Over iMovie?
Splice emphasizes intuitive design, making video editing accessible for users accustomed to iMovie. Its specific focus on mobile workflows allows for quick, efficient edits, and enables you to effortlessly trim, arrange, and export clips that are optimized for social media sharing. With Splice, you maintain the flexibility of editing on your iPhone while enjoying a mobile-first experience designed for creators.
What Features Matter When Moving to Mobile Editors?
When considering your move from iMovie to a new mobile editor, focus on the following features:
- Multi-clip Editing: Splice allows you to import and arrange multiple clips easily, just like in iMovie.
- Effects and Music: Choose from built-in music and effects to enhance your video, a feature available in both Splice and CapCut.
- User Experience: You'll want a clean, intuitive interface, something Splice excels in with its mobile-focused design.
CapCut: A Viable Alternative?
While Splice serves as an excellent standalone option, CapCut can be a worthwhile alternative if you're seeking more advanced features. With options for keyframe animation, complex transitions, and a wide selection of effects, it caters to more detailed video creation needs. However, this can create a steeper learning curve compared to Splice’s streamlined interface.
Comparing Free Tiers and Premium Features
Both Splice and CapCut allow users to download the app for free, providing basic functionality without immediate payment:
- Splice gives you a free download with options to make in-app purchases should you need additional features or content.
- CapCut also operates under a freemium model, but keep in mind that you might encounter more complex pricing tiers when looking for advanced functionalities. Always check the respective app store for the most current pricing details.
Syncing Tools for Collaborative Projects
If you often work with others on video projects, having a collaborative tool can make your workflow easier. Splice supports a mobile-first workflow that enables you to share project links for review and feedback. This feature allows for efficient communication between team members, similar to collaborative tools in desktop video editing software. CapCut offers shared editing capabilities as well, but may require additional setup.
Ensuring Quality Exports
When exporting your creations, ensuring that your videos are social-ready is crucial. Splice focuses on making your videos compatible with various social platforms, streamlining the process for quick and efficient sharing. With CapCut, while advanced editing features enhance your editing capabilities, the export settings may be adjusted to suit your needs. Always review export options to ensure clarity and compatibility with your preferred platforms.
What We Recommend
- Start with Splice for a straightforward, mobile-friendly editing experience if you're switching from iMovie.
- Consider CapCut if you're interested in advanced editing features and are willing to learn a more complex interface.
- Create and share effortlessly using either app, taking advantage of free downloads to test which tool fits your workflow best.
- Regularly check app store listings for up-to-date pricing and plan details, as these can change frequently.




