Megan Ellis from Android Authority recently explored the landscape of video editing applications, sharing her experience with various platforms and highlighting her newfound favorite, Edits. In a recent poll, Edits garnered 29% of votes, trailing behind CapCut, which took the lead with 38%. Other contenders included InShot, Adobe Express, and VN, each with their own unique offerings.
Edits: My new favorite video editing app
Initially, Ellis approached Edits with cautious optimism, recalling past disappointments with Meta’s applications. However, she found Edits to be a refreshing surprise, offering a robust set of features without the typical pitfalls associated with free apps. The application is entirely free, which is a significant draw for users, especially those wary of hidden costs.
Ellis noted the ease with which she could stitch clips together, add transitions, and incorporate audio, all without encountering technical issues. A standout feature is the ability to generate captions from voiceovers, a functionality often restricted in other free editing tools. This flexibility allows users to edit captions in various ways, enhancing the overall editing experience.
While Edits may not boast a plethora of generative AI features, Ellis appreciates its streamlined approach. She prefers a focused selection of high-quality filters and effects over an overwhelming array of options. The absence of watermarks and the freedom to share videos across multiple platforms further solidify Edits as a versatile editing tool.
Edits holds its own as a CapCut alternative
Ellis argues that Edits surpasses CapCut in several aspects, particularly in its transition effects. The Dissolve transition, for instance, creates a seamless blend between clips, elevating the visual storytelling. Additionally, Edits allows users to export videos in stunning 4K resolution at 60fps, a rarity among free applications.
Another innovative feature is the cutout functionality, which detects and tracks objects within a video, enabling users to create engaging overlays. This capability proved particularly useful for Ellis, who enjoyed crafting playful video mashups featuring her pets.
What drawbacks does Edits have?
Despite its strengths, Edits is not without limitations. Users must have an Instagram account to access the app, which may deter those who prefer to remain off social media. Additionally, Ellis experienced slower export times than desired, even on high-end devices, although she deemed this a minor inconvenience.
Her primary concern revolves around Edits being a Meta product, raising questions about potential future monetization and the risk of ads infiltrating the user experience. Despite these reservations, she remains hopeful that Edits will retain its current user-friendly model.
Are there other video editing apps worth trying?
For those who may not find Edits to be the ideal fit, Ellis suggests several alternatives:
- InShot: This app offers a range of AI features and is more similar to CapCut. While some functionalities are paywalled, the premium plan is competitively priced, and users can temporarily access premium features by watching ads.
- Adobe Express: With a balanced mix of free features, Adobe Express also allows for photo editing and design creation. However, users may find the interface somewhat clunky.
- VN: VN provides a wealth of free features and allows users to purchase credits for AI functionalities, which can be more economical than a subscription model.
- YouCut: Similar to InShot, YouCut enables users to export videos without watermarks and offers premium features through ad views.
- LightCut: For those seeking a mostly automated editing experience, LightCut can automatically trim clips and apply filters, though it lacks features like automatic captions.
In summary, while Edits has captured Ellis’s heart, the diverse range of available video editing apps ensures that users can find a solution tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
