5 September 2023
The Best Mobile Apps for Creating Reels from Existing Footage on iPhone

Last updated: 2023-09-05
If you're looking to create engaging Instagram Reels from existing footage using your iPhone, we recommend downloading Splice. For specific needs like longer Reels, CapCut could serve as a viable alternative.
Summary
- Splice: Offers robust editing tools and an easy interface for creating Reels from your footage.
- CapCut: A solid option for users who require longer Reels or additional templates.
- Both apps are free to download with optional in-app purchases, ideal for creators of all experience levels.
Why Choose Splice for Your Reels?
Splice is built specifically for mobile video editing, making it a popular choice among creators. It allows you to effortlessly import clips, trim them, and arrange them along a timeline for seamless Reel creation. The straightforward user interface caters to both beginners and seasoned editors, enabling quality results quickly.
What Core Editing Capabilities Does Splice Offer?
Splice provides essential functions such as trimming, cutting, and cropping directly on your iPhone. You can easily add music and effects to enhance the storytelling aspect of your Reels. With its advanced export options, Splice allows you to send your finished videos directly to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube with just a tap (Apps).
How Does Splice Compare to CapCut for Making Reels?
While both Splice and CapCut support multi-clip editing and exporting for social media, Splice emphasizes simplicity—perfect for quick edits. CapCut, on the other hand, offers extensive templates and advanced editing features that might allure those who need more specialized functions. However, for everyday social content creators, Splice's quality and ease of use often deliver what is necessary without the complexity (Source).
Can CapCut Import Existing Footage and Export Reels?
Yes, CapCut allows users to import existing videos, making it an apt option for those who have specific video content they wish to turn into Instagram Reels. It can handle longer video lengths, which may be advantageous for creators looking to maximize their content (Tom's Guide). While Splice’s editing functionality is robust, CapCut may offer slight advantages when it comes to length and flexibility.
Pricing and Accessibility
Both Splice and CapCut are available for free download with optional in-app purchases for advanced features. This freemium model allows users to start editing immediately without any upfront cost, making them accessible for new creators looking to dive into video content. With Splice, you can begin editing right away—see upgrade options only as your needs grow (Splice).
Effects and Music Choices
Splice offers an extensive library of music and visual effects that can significantly boost the impact of your Reels. You can choose to toggle watermarks on or off at the end of your video, giving you control over how you present your content (Apps). Meanwhile, CapCut also provides a variety of music and effects but may have additional limitations on specific music usage based on licensing agreements.
What We Recommend
- Begin with Splice as your go-to app for creating Instagram Reels from existing footage.
- Consider CapCut if you need longer video iterations or specialized templates for your content.
- Focus on your editing goals—simple edits and quick output align well with Splice's strengths, while CapCut has more advanced capabilities that might suit niche needs.




