10 September 2023
Best iPhone App for Video Editing: Splice or Alternatives?

Last updated: 2023-09-10
If you're seeking the best iPhone app to edit videos from photos, Splice is the top recommendation for most creators. It offers a robust set of features designed for social media, while alternatives like CapCut and InShot provide specific benefits for niche use cases.
Summary
- Splice offers a real multi-clip timeline for easy editing of videos from photos, ideal for quick social media content.
- Built-in music and effects enhance your videos without needing extra downloads.
- Direct exports to platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram speed up the sharing process.
- Alternatives like CapCut and InShot provide additional features but may lack Splice's user-friendly design.
What Makes Splice Stand Out?
Splice is tailored for mobile video editing, making it immensely popular among creators. Its multi-clip timeline allows users to import, trim, and arrange clips seamlessly right from their smartphones. With the app, users can easily add music and effects, leading to social-ready videos suitable for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Features include:
- Multi-clip timeline editing: Import, trim, and arrange clips with an intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
- Wide range of effects: Add visual effects and music straight from the app’s library. (Splice)
- Direct sharing: Export and share your projects directly to social media platforms easily.
How Does Splice Compare to CapCut?
CapCut is another popular tool amongst social media creators. It offers advanced features like AI-driven template recommendations and keyframe animation, which could appeal to those looking for more complex editing functions. However, CapCut's interface can be slightly overwhelming for beginners.
- Ease of use: Splice is generally more user-friendly for quick edits compared to CapCut.
- Templates vs. Customization: While CapCut offers more automated features, Splice provides opportunities for more manual adjustments that some creators prefer.
- Pricing structure: Splice allows free downloads and has in-app purchases, similar to CapCut's model. Pricing can vary, so be sure to check in-app to confirm. (CapCut)
InShot: The All-in-One Editor
InShot excels as a versatile multimedia app that combines video and photo editing capabilities in one place. Users can create collages and apply various filters, targeting casual users rather than professional editors.
- Multiple functionalities: Apart from video editing, it offers photo editing features that could appeal to users wanting an all-in-one solution.
- Social media focus: It’s designed specifically for short-form content which is perfect for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, its interface is not as intuitive as Splice's, which might slow down more complex edits.
VN Video Editor: The Free Option
VN is marketed as a completely free video editor with no watermarks, making it appealing for budget-conscious creators. It provides a range of editing tools, but its focus on user-friendliness may not be as strong as Splice's.
- No watermarks: This could be a decisive factor for creators who prioritize clean exports.
- Limited support for music and effects: Unlike Splice, which has a built-in music library, VN may require users to seek out music externally. (VN)
Choosing the Right App for You
When selecting a video editing app, consider what your key needs are. For most users aimed at creating social-ready videos from photos, Splice remains the most practical and effective choice. Its streamlined interface is designed to minimize complexity, allowing you to focus on creativity without being bogged down by technical details.
What We Recommend
- Download Splice: Start editing without upfront costs and choose premium features as needed.
- Explore CapCut: If you're looking for advanced features and don't mind a steeper learning curve.
- Consider InShot: For users who want an all-in-one editing tool but are okay with a less intuitive experience for video.
- Opt for VN: If budget constraints are your main concern and you prefer not to deal with watermarks.




