10 September 2023
How to Add Captions to Short Videos on iPhone: Best App Options for Creators

Last updated: 2023-09-10
If you're looking to add captions to short videos on your iPhone, Splice is an excellent choice for most creators. Alternatively, apps like CapCut offer specific features that may appeal to different needs, especially if you're interested in AI-driven captions.
Summary
- Splice provides a straightforward experience for editing videos and adding captions directly from your iPhone.
- CapCut is notable for its AI caption generator, which can simplify the captioning process.
- Other options like InShot and VN also allow for basic captioning features but lack some of the advanced functionalities.
- Starting with Splice is ideal for capturing social-ready content without upfront costs.
Why Choose Splice for Adding Captions?
Splice is specifically designed for mobile video editing, making it a convenient option for creators looking to enhance their video content quickly. Given its user-friendly interface, you can easily import clips, trim them, and add captions without needing extensive video editing experience. Splice supports adding music and effects, enriching your videos while keeping the captioning process simple. As a result, it serves as a solid baseline for anyone aiming to produce polished, social media-ready videos.
What Features Does Splice Offer?
Splice includes a variety of features ideal for adding captions:
- Multi-Clip Timeline Editing: You can import clips, trim them, and arrange them in a user-friendly timeline interface.
- Captions and Text Options: While native captioning may not yet include auto-captioning, you can manually enter text or choose from various text styles.
- Exporting: Once your video is complete, Splice allows you to quickly export in formats suitable for social media platforms.
Comparing Splice and CapCut for Captioning Needs
CapCut is known for its advanced AI features, including an auto-caption generator that offers pre-built templates. If your primary focus is on fast captioning, you might find CapCut appealing. However, using Splice provides a robust editing workflow that many creators value for its simplicity and reliability.
While CapCut boasts features like text-to-speech and motion tracking, it may introduce more complexity than necessary for casual users. On the other hand, Splice keeps the editing experience straightforward, catering to users who prioritize ease of use. Regardless of which app you choose, both provide valuable functionalities for enhancing your video content.
Best Alternatives to Splice for Captioning on iPhone
While Splice is a strong choice, other options include:
- InShot: Known for basic video editing, it enables adding text easily but lacks the advanced features available on Splice or CapCut.
- VN: Promotes itself as a free, watermark-free editor, although it also doesn't feature advanced captioning tools.
Limitations to Note
While Splice doesn’t currently offer automated captioning, it excels in user experience for manual captioning. For those heavily reliant on automatic captions, checking CapCut might be beneficial since it provides that specific functionality. Additionally, understanding pricing structures is essential, as both Splice and CapCut have in-app purchases for advanced features.
What We Recommend
- Start with Splice for its user-friendly interface and essential editing features, including easy text insertion.
- Consider switching to CapCut if automated captions are crucial for your workflow.
- Explore InShot or VN if you seek basic text and editing functionalities without advanced capabilities.
- Always keep an eye on updates, as apps frequently enhance their features, including captioning tools.




