Every week (sometimes every day), someone will ask, “What’s the best app to edit videos for social media?” or “What do people use to record and edit?” “What do you use to edit videos?”.
And every time, I want to say:
The best one is the one that works for you.
Actually I just remembered we wrote about this back in 2023!we wrote about this back in 2023! And video editing software in 2020video editing software in 2020. Time for a quick update.
What works for me won’t work for you. I use multiple software depending on the situation. Yes, this includes professional software, but I’ve been professionally editing/creating for a VERY long time and I am used to those tools. Plus I do this for other people as part of my business. Do I recommend you use professional software- for the most part no.
For solo and small business owners the truth is most tools will do the job — if you’re clear on what the job actually is.
So before you start downloading every app with a 4.8-star rating, let’s break this down properly.
1. What do you need it to do?
This is where most people get stuck. They jump straight to tools without working out what they’re trying to create and what functions they will need.
Ask yourself:
- Are you filming talking head videos or screen recordings?
- Are you stitching together clips or just trimming a single one?
- Do you want fancy transitions, captions, or just something that works quickly on your phone?
Write this down somewhere — it helps. If you’re only doing basic edits, you don’t need a feature-heavy app designed for full-blown video production.
2. Match the Tool to Your Tech Comfort Level
Be honest here.
- If you get overwhelmed too many buttons, CapCut, InShot or Canva Video are good starters.
- If you’ve edited videos before and want a bit more control try VN, iMovie, or DaVinci Resolve (desktop) might be your thing.
- If you want to look like a content creator but don’t want to learn a whole new skillset, CapCut’s auto features will do more than enough.
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking fancier software equals better results. If you’re spending more time learning how to use the tool than creating content, that’s your answer right there — it’s not the right tool for you (yet).
3. Good Editing doesn’t equal Good Content
This is the part no one wants to hear.
A polished video with boring or unclear messaging will flop. A rough edit that actually connects with your audience will do better every time.
Your audience doesn’t care what app you used. They care about:
- Whether they understand what you’re saying
- Whether you’re holding their attention
- Whether you’re giving them something useful, funny, honest, or relatable
Don’t get stuck in “content perfection paralysis.” Aim for clarity and consistency over fancy effects.
4. Pick One and Stick With It (For Now)
The fastest way to burn out or give up is to constantly jump between tools.
Pick one app that meets your current needs and get familiar with it. As you grow, you can switch up later if you need to but right now, your job is to create, not compare.
5. A Quick (No-Fluff) Recommendation List
If you’re a beginner who wants easy
- Your phone (simple easy edits)
- CapCut (free, mobile-friendly, loads of templates)
- InShot (great for trimming and resizing for socials)
- Canva Video (especially if you’re already using Canva)
If you need something a bit more advanced
- VN Video Editor (more control, still free)
- iMovie (easy for Mac/iPhone users)
- Adobe Premiere Rush (simpler than Premiere Pro)
For serious editing on desktop
- DaVinci Resolve (free, professional-level — but has a learning curve)
- Final Cut Pro / Adobe Premiere Pro (paid, pro-level plus learning curve)
But again — don’t let the list fool you. All of these will edit your video. It’s the content inside that counts.
The Tool is a Means, Not the Magic
If you’re making short-form content for social media, stop overthinking. Your audience wants value, not perfection.
Pick a tool that you’re not going to fight with every time you open it. One you can use on the fly. One that feels like an extension of what you’re already doing.
Because the goal isn’t to become a video editor — it’s to connect with your audience.
And for that, the best app is the one you’ll actually use.
Don’t forget if it’s taking up too much of your time we can create,edit and even post your content if required 🙂
