Video Editing App better than Capcut

When it comes to mobile video editing, the question we all ask is: Which app is the best? Some say CapCut, others prefer InShot, KineMaster, VN, or even the recently hyped Filmr. But are these apps really worth the hype? And is there one app that beats them all in terms of features and ease of use?

In this post, I’ll compare all the top video editing apps—feature by feature—and by the end, we’ll select the best free mobile editing app that can take your YouTube or Instagram content to the next level, without spending a single rupee. I’ll also share my personal editing tips along the way, so make sure you read till the end!

Criteria to Select the Best Video Editing App

Before jumping into the comparison, let’s set some fair criteria. The app must:

• Export videos without watermark

• Offer advanced keyframing

• Include built-in effects and transitions

• Support export in at least 1080p HD

• Allow smooth layer-based editing (without lag)

• Be completely free to use

Let’s break down the top contenders now.

1. KineMaster

Pros:

• Professional horizontal editing interface

• Great layering system

• Powerful tools for highlighting text and adding effects to specific areas

• Highly customizable timeline view

Cons:

• Watermark can’t be removed unless you pay

• Some features locked behind a paywall

🔗 Download KineMaster (Google Play)

2. InShot

Pros:

• Simple UI, great for beginners

• Watch ads to remove watermark

• Features like background removal, auto-captioning, slow motion, and transitions

• Supports export in 1080p

Cons:

• Basic keyframing

• Limit on overlays (max 4)

• Some animations require payment

📝 My first 3 YouTube videos were edited using InShot, so I definitely recommend it for beginners!

🔗 InShot – Video Editor

3. VN Video Editor

Pros:

• Clean interface like InShot

• Free watermark removal

• Advanced color grading

• HDR effects

• Advanced keyframing

Cons:

• Limits overlays per clip (max 5)

• Can’t import audio longer than video duration

If I had to choose between VN and InShot, I’d go with InShot—it’s just simpler for day-to-day use.

🔗 VN Video Editor

4. CapCut

The current best overall. Why? Because it offers more features for free than any other app.

Key Features:

• Built-in trending transitions & AI effects

• Background and green screen removal

• Auto-captions, sound effects, noise remover

• Text-to-speech, camera tracking, masking, motion blur

• 4K video export

• No watermark or overlay restrictions

Cons:

• Can lag with longer edits (I fix this by editing in 1-minute clips)

• Banned in India — requires VPN to access

🔗 CapCut (Official Website)
🔗 Power VPN for Android

5. Filmr

This app is gaining hype lately, and it’s not banned in India.

Pros:

• Great for long edits

• Beginner-friendly interface

Cons:

• Most powerful features are paid

• Even 1080p export without watermark requires purchase

It’s a good app only if you’re ready to pay. Otherwise, CapCut still holds the crown.

🔗 Filmr by InVideo

6. Alight Motion

A game-changer when it comes to free professional 3D editing.

Pros:

• 3D transitions and advanced animations

• Can be used as a companion app for CapCut

Cons:

• Can’t remove watermark unless paid (but I found a workaround using masking tricks)

• Can lag and doesn’t offer features like CapCut

If you’re doing advanced animation, this app is a great support tool.

🔗 Alight Motion
🔗 Learn watermark removal technique here: YouTube Watermark Masking Trick

Final Verdict: CapCut + Alight Motion = Best Combo for 2024

Here’s the final ranking based on key criteria:

🎯 CapCut wins for being the most feature-rich, free, and user-friendly. Pair it with Alight Motion for 3D transitions and animations, and you’re set for 2024!

Bonus Tip: Storytelling Is the Key 🎬

Even with the best tools, your content needs a story. Learn how to craft impactful stories in video by watching this YouTube storytelling tutorial.