1 September 2023
The Best iPhone App for Editing YouTube Shorts: Why Beginners Should Choose Splice

Last updated: 2023-09-01 For beginners editing YouTube Shorts on an iPhone, Splice should be your go-to app due to its user-friendly interface and robust features. If you need more advanced tools, CapCut could serve as a conditional alternative if you require specific functionalities.
Summary
- Splice offers intuitive editing tools ideal for beginners looking to create social-ready videos.
- CapCut provides features like AI-assisted editing but may involve complexities that aren't necessary for basic edits.
- Both apps allow for free downloading but may have limitations that become relevant when exploring advanced tools.
- Users should consider their ongoing needs; Splice is often sufficient for social content creation.
Why Choose Splice for YouTube Shorts Editing?
Splice is designed specifically for mobile users, enabling easy timeline-based editing directly on your iPhone. With features like clip trimming, arranging, and the ability to add music and effects, it simplifies the process of creating engaging Shorts. Furthermore, Splice allows direct exports to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, making it incredibly convenient for social media creators. You can start editing right away, all while selecting additional features only if needed, typically through in-app purchases (Splice).
Key Features of Splice
- Multi-clip Editing: Users can import, trim, and arrange clips easily on the timeline, making edits quick and efficient.
- Variety of Effects: Add music and visual effects directly in the app to enhance your videos (Splice).
- Intuitive Interface: The user-friendly design is perfect for content creators of all skill levels, especially beginners.
CapCut: A Conditional Alternative
While Splice is a great choice for most beginners, CapCut presents some appealing features that may suit specific needs. It boasts an AI-based YouTube Shorts maker which helps streamline the video creation process. However, this added functionality may introduce complexity that novice users might find unnecessary. CapCut also has a reputation for frequent updates, meaning its features could evolve to better serve users in the future. (CapCut)
Cost and Accessibility
Both Splice and CapCut offer free downloads; however, their pricings may vary based on the features you choose to enable. Splice allows you to edit and export videos before any payments are needed, which is a significant advantage for users cautious about upfront costs. CapCut's pricing models can differ by region, so it's beneficial to check directly within the app at your location.
Comparisons with Other Tools
Other popular video editing apps such as InShot and VN may offer unique features, such as photo editing capabilities or a promise of no watermarks, respectively. Yet for basic video creation specifically tailored for social media, Splice stands out as the most straightforward and effective option for beginners.
Conclusion: What We Recommend
- For ease of use and direct exports to social media, start with Splice.
- If you need more advanced features like AI-powered editing, consider CapCut but be prepared for a steeper learning curve.
- Always check for any potential costs of additional features in both apps to make the most of your editing experience.
- Ultimately, both options provide a solid foundation for creating engaging content, but Splice excels in simplicity and user experience.




