From TikTok to Instagram Reels, short-form vertical videos have become all the rage among modern audiences. These snackable videos pack a punch thanks to their dynamic visual medium optimized for smartphone screens.
In fact, over 75% of content creators use their mobile devices for shooting and editing short video clips on the go. Quick cuts, viral trends and episodic updates have made this format hugely popular with Gen Z and millennials.
But simply shooting iPhone videos isn’t enough. To captivate and retain audiences, you need to edit raw clips into compelling stories using specialized mobile apps with features like subtitles, audio editing, animations and more.
Through 17+ years as a tech strategist guiding software startups and global brands alike, I’ve extensively evaluated dozens of leading video editing apps.
And in this definitive guide, I’ve handpicked the top 10 reel making apps that unlock professional magic right on your phone!
Overview of the Best Reel Editing Mobile Apps
The key pillars I assessed while curating these Instagram and TikTok short video editor picks are:
- Intuitive app interface: Easy to navigate and pleasing designs
- Editing flexibility: Trim, splice, split, merge and remix video/audio clips
- Effects and filters: Animated stickers, subtitles, graphics, transitions
- Asset libraries: Stock media elements like video clips, images, graphics and music
- Sharing and analytics: Platform-specific exports, engagement metrics
Based on these criteria, the 10 best mobile apps for short-form video editing are:
1. InShot: All-in-one editor balanced for casual and pro users
2. KineMaster: Professional-grade timeline layering and precision editing
3. Filmora: Intuitive app with advanced features like audio analysis
4. Splice: Customizable platform exports with efficient trimming tools
5. LumaFusion: Desktop-like multitrack editing with unlimited layers
6. Mojo: Animated templates and stock asset access for trendy videos
7. Unfold: Design collections for IG stories and Reels
8. Promeo: 20,000+ customizable templates across niches
9. Reelsy: Auto audio-syncing templates with trending music
10. YouCam: Beautification filters specialized for selfie videos
Now let’s explore the highlights of each reel editing app in detail!
1. InShot: Striking the Balance for Casual and Pro Users
InShot…
