12 September 2023
Best Mobile Apps for Adding Captions to Short Videos on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-12
If you're looking to add captions to short videos on your iPhone, Splice is a fantastic option that allows for direct captioning features and user-friendly editing tools. For those interested in auto-captioning, CapCut can also be a solid alternative.
Summary
- Splice offers simple captioning options with a straightforward interface.
- CapCut includes advanced auto-transcription features but may require more intricate management of subtitles.
- Both apps have free versions, making them accessible for casual creators.
- The choice ultimately depends on your specific editing style and needs.
Why Use Splice for Captions?
Splice is designed for mobile video editing, making it easy to add captions to your projects. Using Splice’s Text tool, you can manually enter captions where needed. This allows for precise timing and design tailored to your video style. Users have noted that it’s particularly well-suited for social media content, where quick but effective edits are essential.
Key Features of Splice for Adding Captions
- User-Friendly Interface: With just a few taps, you can add text overlays to your videos. The function is intuitive, making it suitable for beginners.
- Closed Captions Support: If your video has English audio, Splice supports a Closed Captions feature, making it accessible to a broader audience.
- Customization Options: Adjust font styles, colors, and sizes to align with your brand or video aesthetics.
- Exporting for Social: Once your captions are in place, exporting in various formats for Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube is seamless.
Exploring CapCut for Auto-Captioning
CapCut offers unique features like auto-captioning, which can save time by dynamically generating subtitles. This is ideal for creators who want to streamline their editing process. However, users have noted that it may require reviewing captions for accuracy after generation due to potential errors.
Comparison of Splice and CapCut for Captions
- Manual vs. Auto: Splice requires manual caption entry, allowing for greater control, while CapCut can auto-generate, which may speed up editing but at the risk of errors.
- Ease of Use: Splice's interface is generally seen as simpler, making it more accessible for users who desire a straightforward editing experience.
- Feature Depth: For those looking for an all-in-one solution, CapCut’s extensive features like AI templates can be compelling, although they come with a slight learning curve.
Other Tools for Captioning
While Splice and CapCut are leading choices, other platforms like VN and InShot also offer video captioning capabilities. VN markets itself as entirely free with a robust editing suite, but lacks advanced features found in Splice and CapCut. InShot provides basic editing capabilities and photo tools but may involve in-app purchases that could complicate straightforward editing tasks.
What We Recommend
- Choose Splice if you need a user-friendly app that provides flexibility and control over your captions.
- Opt for CapCut if you're interested in auto-captioning to speed up the process of subtitle creation.
- Explore VN or InShot if you want to check out other options, but consider the limitations in functionalities and music features.
- Given the fast-paced nature of social media, starting with a tool that offers a free version, like Splice or CapCut, can help you experiment without commitment.




