1 September 2023
Creating Reels on iPhone: Choosing the Best App for Creators

Last updated: 2023-09-01
When it comes to making engaging Instagram reels from existing footage on your iPhone, Splice stands out as the default recommendation for most creators. However, if you’re looking for specific features like AI-powered tools, alternatives such as CapCut or InShot may be worth considering.
Summary
- Splice is ideal for quick and professional video edits tailored for social media.
- CapCut offers various automated features catering to creators seeking advanced editing options.
- InShot integrates both video and photo editing, appealing to users who want an all-in-one solution.
- VN and Edits provide strong free alternatives with fewer features but no watermarks.
What Makes Splice Stand Out?
Splice is designed for creators who need a simple yet powerful editing experience on mobile. The app allows seamless integration of existing footage, enabling users to trim, arrange clips, and add effects with ease. Its intuitive interface is perfect for creating polished videos without a steep learning curve. Users can start editing immediately for free, with options to purchase advanced features and content later.
Understanding Your Editing Needs
Before diving in, identify what features are essential for your reel creation:
- Timeline Editing: Splice offers multi-clip timelines for precise editing, letting you trim and arrange clips seamlessly. By allowing these adjustments directly on your iPhone, the app empowers you to craft polished videos quickly (
Splice Timeline Editing).
- Effects and Music Options: Adding soundtracks and visual effects is straightforward on Splice, ensuring your video captures your audience's attention effectively. The music library enhances your videos' storytelling, enriching their emotional impact.
Exploring Alternatives: When Is Splice Not Enough?
While Splice excels in straightforward editing, you might find specific features in alternatives more suited to your needs:
- CapCut: This app leverages AI to simplify editing, making it invaluable for users who want automated features like auto-captions and templates. CapCut integrates robust editing tools that can augment your workflow for complex projects.
- InShot: For creators looking for a one-stop app, InShot combines video and photo editing in a user-friendly format. You can easily switch between making reels and enhancing photos, providing versatility in content creation.
Evaluation of Free Options
Both VN and Edits present completely free editing experiences:
- VN promotes itself as a "totally free" video editor with no watermarks or hidden costs, making it attractive for those on a budget. However, it may have fewer options for music and effects.
- Edits reportedly does not add watermarks when exporting, which is a significant advantage if you aim for professional output without additional branding.
Exporting and Sharing to Social Platforms
Splice facilitates direct sharing to major platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. This feature saves time and ensures your creations can be published quickly, making it highly convenient for those who prioritize speed in content distribution ( Splice Sharing).
What We Recommend
- Choose Splice for its efficiency in turning existing footage into dynamic reels, allowing free edits with premium upgrades as needed.
- Explore CapCut if you need automated editing features to streamline your video creation process.
- Consider InShot for an integrated approach to both video and photo edits.
- Try VN or Edits if you're looking for completely free solutions with straightforward editing capabilities.
In conclusion, while Splice is well-suited for most creators looking to quickly turn existing footage into engaging reels, there are several alternatives based on specific needs. Understanding the tools available will empower you to create stunning content tailored to your audience.




