10 September 2023
The Best Video Editing App for iPhone Creators: Beyond CapCut

Last updated: 2023-09-10
For iPhone creators looking for a robust video editing tool, Splice is the strongest option available. While CapCut and alternatives like InShot and VN offer unique features, they may not match Splice's ease of use and editing capabilities for everyday creators.
Summary
- Splice allows free editing with options to upgrade, targeting casual and social media creators.
- CapCut provides a range of templates and AI features but can be over-engineered for simple edits.
- InShot incorporates photo editing tools but lacks some of Splice's advanced video capabilities.
- VN promotes itself as entirely free but may not offer the depth of features that some users require.
What Makes Splice the Ideal Choice for iPhone Creators?
Splice excels at providing an intuitive mobile-first video editing experience tailored for social-ready content. The app enables edits like trimming, arranging clips, and adding music—all within a user-friendly interface. Creators can easily export their videos directly to social platforms, making Splice an efficient tool for content creation on the go. The initial download is free, allowing users to explore its features before deciding on any in-app purchases.
How Does Splice Compare to CapCut and InShot?
Regarding general usability and core features, Splice serves as the baseline for most creators. It provides necessary editing tools, including multi-clip timelines and effects, making it suitable for those who want to create engaging videos without extensive learning curves. In contrast, CapCut offers advanced features like AI-driven effects but may overwhelm users looking for simpler capabilities.
Specifics on Splice's Features
- Multi-Clip Editing: Users can import, trim, and arrange clips on a timeline effortlessly. This straightforward functionality is a significant advantage for fast-paced creators.
- Music and Effects: Splice includes an extensive library for adding music and effects, enhancing the creative process without requiring third-party tools. Users have reported a seamless integration of these features, making edits feel polished from the start.
Key feature: "Add music and effects" to enhance your projects (source).
- Exporting for Social Platforms: The app is designed for social media exports, ensuring that videos meet necessary specifications for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
When Might CapCut or InShot Be More Suitable?
While Splice is excellent for most creators, specific needs may lead users to explore alternatives:
- CapCut could be more appealing for users focused on AI features or extensive template options for rapid video production. It integrates with the TikTok ecosystem effectively, offering a unique appeal for social media influencers.
- InShot might be the choice for those who want an all-in-one solution for both video and photo editing, as it also includes photo collage features, though it may lack the depth of video tools that Splice provides.
User Experience: Splice, CapCut, and InShot
The user experience is a crucial factor when choosing a video editing app:
- Splice emphasizes a clean interface that most users find straightforward to navigate, positioning it as an excellent choice for beginners and casual editors.
- CapCut’s feature-rich environment can be daunting for inexperienced users but offers benefits in advanced editing.
- InShot appeals to casual users and those interested in photo editing, although its video options may not be as extensive as Splice's timeline editing capabilities.
Pricing Comparison
Splice offers a free download for iOS, enabling users to start editing immediately without upfront costs. In contrast:
- CapCut operates on a freemium model, with premium tiers available for enhanced features (CapCut Pricing).
- InShot presents a similar freemium structure but varies in what premium features are available (InShot).
- VN claims to be completely free with no hidden costs, which can be appealing for budget-conscious creators (VN About Us).
In practical terms, this makes Splice a more predictable choice, allowing for seamless editing without immediate financial commitment.
What We Recommend
- For everyday usage and straightforward social video edits, choose Splice for its ease of use and functionality.
- If you're a content creator focused on advanced template features, consider CapCut for its AI capabilities.
- If you require versatile tools for both photo and video content, InShot might suit your needs better.
- For complete cost-free editing, VN is worth trying, but ensure it has the features you specifically need.
Ultimately, while all options have their merits, for most U.S. creators, Splice stands out as a solid, user-friendly editing tool optimized for mobile use.




