Whether you’re looking to share your cat chasing its tail or want to drop some quick life advice, short videos are the way to go. Everyone’s scrolling through Reels, Shorts, and Stories these days. But choosing the *right* app to make those snappy videos? That’s where Reddit comes to the rescue.
TL;DR
Table of Contents
Reddit users love quick, easy video editors for Reels and Shorts. Apps that are free (or cheap), easy to use, and full of cool features always rise to the top. We picked the top 5 small video apps Reddit users recommend the most. You’ll find the right one for your next viral clip right here.
1. CapCut – The People’s Champion
This app is everywhere right now. And Reddit LOVES it. Developed by ByteDance (yes, the TikTok folks), CapCut is great for both newbies and pros.
- No watermark on free exports (a miracle!)
- Templates – Just plug and play your clips
- Auto-captioning that actually works
- Supports multiple tracks, just like pro editors
If you check any thread on “best free video app,” CapCut is usually the first reply. From meme edits to mini-vlogs, it does it all.
Best for: TikTok, Instagram Reels, fast edits with effects
Platform: Android and iOS. Also has a web version now!
2. InShot – quick, clean, and buttery smooth
For small videos and polished vibes, Redditors swear by InShot. It’s super easy to learn. And those clean fonts and transitions make your content pop without looking overdone.
- Slick UI with drag-and-drop goodness
- Resize quickly for TikTok, Insta, or YouTube Shorts
- Add your own music or choose from built-in options
- Adjust speed, crop, trim – like an editing ninja
Many creators mention that the free version is solid, but the one-time Pro upgrade unlocks more transitions and filters, all for pretty cheap.
Best for: Lifestyle reels, dance clips, quick tutorials
Platform: Android and iOS
3. Splice – Powerful But Pretty Simple
Originally a GoPro tool, Splice has evolved massively. Redditors rank it high for serious editing – but in a fast, mobile-friendly way.
It’s like having Final Cut on your phone… but easier.
- Precision trimming and multi-clip edits
- Sync your video to music (it’s real-time magic!)
- Clean animations and overlays
- Good audio tools, more than just volume and fade
Splice is super popular in Reddit’s iPhone community, especially for content creators who want slightly more control.
Best for: Travel edits, skateboarding shorts, action clips
Platform: iOS mostly, limited Android support
4. Mojo – Animate Like a Pro
If you’re into motion graphics or fancy text animations, Mojo is for you. Reddit marketing threads love it for promos. TikTokers love it for captions that *move* with music.
- Animated templates + motion text tools
- 16:9, 9:16, square – auto-sized for every platform
- Perfect for highlight reels and story-style vids
- Can animate logos and social handles really nicely
It’s not as full-featured as CapCut or InShot, but for high-quality motion posts? It rocks.
Best for: Business reels, event promos, IG Stories
Platform: Android and iOS
5. Kinemaster – Full Control on Mobile
When Reddit users want more layers, blending, chroma key (yes, green screen!), and almost desktop-style features, they pick Kinemaster.
Not the lightest app, but it’s the most powerful on this list.
- Supports multi-layer editing
- Add B-roll, voiceovers, background music
- Professional-style transitions
- Green screen support that actually works
Great for folks who already edit and want to dive in deep using only their phone.
Image not found in postmetaBest for: YouTube Shorts, mini-documentaries, hands-on creators
Platform: Android and iOS
Bonus Mentions – Because Reddit Knows More
Okay, five is plenty, but Reddit can’t stop giving amazing suggestions.
- VLLO – Cool beginner tool with solid effects
- Clips (Apple) – Great for iOS-only users; simple and social
- LightCut – AI editing with auto beats and cuts
If you’re overwhelmed, start with CapCut or InShot. Most Reddit users bounce between two apps for different moods or projects.
Tips From Reddit Creators
In between all the app recos, users drop nuggets of pure gold. Here are a few Reddit-fueled editing tips for short-form glory:
- Use jump cuts to keep the energy up
- Keep most videos under 30 seconds for best retention
- Text-on-screen beats talking-only clips 90% of the time
- Good music + captions = viewer gold
And here’s the big one: Don’t overthink it. Post it. Then post again.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect app for Reels and Shorts depends on your style and goals. Need motion text? Mojo is your friend. Want precise edits? Try Splice or Kinemaster. Don’t want to think too hard? CapCut and InShot will spoil you!
And remember – the best app is the one you actually use. So pick one, start creating, and scroll through Reddit when you need new tips or inspo.
Happy filming!
