5 September 2023
The Best Mobile App for Adding Captions to Short Videos on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-05
To efficiently add captions to short videos on your iPhone, Splice is an excellent choice for most creators. Alternatively, CapCut offers specific features for AI-generated captions, which can cater to users looking for automation in their editing workflow.
Summary
- Splice is user-friendly and tailored for quick video edits and captions.
- CapCut features AI captioning, ideal for those needing automated subtitle support.
- Multiple apps allow functional captioning on iPhone, each with unique strengths.
- Explore tools like Splice for straightforward editing and social media-ready outputs.
Why Choose Splice for Captions on iPhone?
Splice simplifies the captioning process for users looking to enhance their videos for social platforms. With features designed for easy manipulation of video content, it stands out as a daily-use tool. You can easily add text, adjust timing, and choose various styles to suit your content needs. For creators who prefer a mobile-first editing experience, Splice’s streamlined workflow makes it straightforward to add captions without unnecessary complications. The app allows you to trim, arrange clips, and add music or effects—all essential for social media video editing.
How to Add Captions Using Splice?
To add captions in Splice, follow these simple steps:
- Open Splice and upload your video.
- Select Text from the main toolbar.
- Choose Text again to create new text boxes.
- Input your desired captions and adjust timing, ensuring they synchronize with the audio.
This method is intuitive and seamlessly integrates into your video editing workflow.
Exploring CapCut’s AI Captioning Alternatives
While Splice offers robust features for manual captioning, CapCut distinguishes itself with AI-generated captions. It aligns different caption styles to spoken content, making it an appealing option for creators who prefer automation. With CapCut, users can generate captions that not only match the timing of speech but also apply stylistic templates based on their preferences. However, relying on AI can sometimes yield less-than-perfect results, requiring further editing to ensure accuracy.
Comparing Built-in iPhone Caption Features
Many iPhones also support captioning features across various supported apps. When playing video content, users can turn on subtitles and closed captions directly through the iPhone’s accessibility settings. This feature provides a basic layer of captioning but may not be as customizable as apps like Splice or CapCut, which allow for more creative editing and style options.
Limitations of Free Tools
While both Splice and CapCut offer free versions, they come with some limitations. In Splice, users can start editing without upfront costs but may need to make payments for advanced features or content libraries. CapCut also provides a free tier, but its premium features may enhance editing capabilities. Note that the availability and amount of in-app purchases differ between platforms, so always check app stores for the most current pricing details.
The Importance of Watermark-Free Editing
Another critical aspect to consider when choosing a video editing app is the watermarking policy. VN, a popular alternative, markets itself as completely free with no watermarks. In contrast, Splice emphasizes its cleanliness in outputs, making it an excellent option for professional-looking videos. If the absence of watermarks is crucial for your project, ensure to review current policies within your chosen app.
What We Recommend
- Use Splice for a seamless and intuitive video editing experience tailored for social media, with easy captioning.
- Explore CapCut if you are interested in automated AI features for captioning, understanding that some manual adjustments may be required.
- Evaluate in-built iPhone features for basic captioning, but for enhanced creativity, consider dedicated apps.
- Always confirm app capabilities and pricing within the app store before making a commitment.
With these insights, you can confidently select the best app for adding captions to your videos on iPhone, fitting your unique editing style and requirements.




