Instagram Reels have completely changed how we create and enjoy video content on every major social media platform in 2025.
With so many people posting short, creative videos, having the best app to make reels is now more important than ever for content creators, brands, and anyone wanting to grow their Instagram account.
The right video editor can help you turn simple ideas into eye-catching reels with smooth transitions, a music library, and advanced editing features that make your videos stand out from the crowd. Today’s mobile video editors are packed with powerful editing tools—many now rival desktop apps for creating professional-quality Instagram videos right from your phone.
Whether you are new or a skilled content maker, there is a reel app for you. If you want smart features like chroma key, keyframe moves, or sound effects, these apps have it all. They offer easy drag-and-drop tools and video templates. These tools help make editing simple and fun. You can create content faster with these helpful features.
In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on experience with the top reel editors of 2025, comparing their user experience, pricing, and premium features. No matter your skill level or creative style, you’ll find the best app to make reels automatically, with music, and with all the editing tools you need to take your social media content to the next level.
What Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are short-form vertical videos that can be up to 90 seconds long, allowing users to create engaging, creative video content with audio, effects, and various creative tools.
Launched as Instagram’s answer to TikTok, Reels have quickly become a core feature of the platform.
Why Reels Are Important For Social Media Growth?
Reels have proven to be a powerful tool for social media growth for several reasons.
First, the Instagram algorithm heavily favors Reels content, giving it prime placement in the app and greater reach than standard posts. This increased visibility can help grow your Instagram account significantly faster than other content types.
The short, engaging format of Reels also captures attention in today’s fast-paced digital environment, leading to higher engagement rates.
For brands and content creators, this translates to increased followers, better audience retention, and more monetization opportunities. Statistics show that accounts using Reels consistently see up to 2x more growth than those focusing solely on static content.
Key Features Of Effective Reels
Creating effective Reels requires attention to several key elements:
- High-quality video editing that ensures smooth transitions and visual appeal
- Properly balanced audio, including background music and voice-overs
- Creative text overlays that enhance messaging without cluttering the screen
- Appropriate aspect ratio (9:16 vertical format) optimized for mobile viewing
- Trending effects and filters that keep content fresh and relevant
The right reel editor will offer tools to optimize all these elements, making your hard work more effective and your content more engaging.
Why Use Dedicated Apps For Making Reels?
While Instagram offers a built-in editor, dedicated video editing apps provide significantly more capabilities for creating professional-quality content.
Limitations Of In-App Instagram Editing
The Instagram app’s native editor, while convenient, comes with notable limitations:
- Basic trimming and sequencing capabilities only
- Limited text styling options
- Restricted selection of transitions and effects
- Minimal audio editing tools
- No advanced features like keyframing or chroma key
- Frequent glitches that can result in lost work
As one creator mentioned, “Video editing in Instagram Reels is glitchy AF. I’ve lost count of the times my drafts have vanished, the audio un-syncs, and my patience is put to the test when trying to cut my footage to the beat.”
Benefits Of Third-Party Reel Makers
Dedicated reel maker apps offer substantial advantages:
- Advanced editing tools for precise control over your video content
- Extensive music libraries without copyright concerns
- Professional sound effects and voice modification options
- Complex video editing capabilities like speed ramping and motion tracking
- The ability to save projects and continue editing later
- More creative freedom with transitions, filters, and effects
Statistics show that 55% of creators use third-party apps to enhance their Reels, suggesting that relying solely on Instagram’s built-in tools may put your content at a competitive disadvantage.
Best App To Make Reels In 2025
InShot
InShot is a favorite among content creators for making Instagram reels thanks to its simple interface and wide range of video editing tools. You can easily trim, merge, and reverse video clips, add text overlays, and choose from a rich music library to enhance your video content.
InShot’s AI-powered features like auto captions, background removal, and smart tracking help you create professional reels without a steep learning curve. Speed control and keyframe animations let you add advanced effects, while the app’s free version is great for quick edits (though it leaves a watermark).
Upgrading to the Pro plan removes watermarks and unlocks more advanced features, making InShot a top choice for both beginners and experienced content creators looking to take their reels to the next level.
Canva
Canva has transformed into a powerful reel editor, perfect for anyone wanting brand consistency and easy video editing.
Its drag-and-drop editor, pre-sized Instagram templates, and huge stock library of photos, video clips, and music make it easy to create eye-catching reels.
Canva’s cloud storage and collaborative features are great for teams or businesses managing multiple social media accounts.
Even with the free plan, you get access to a wide range of templates and editing tools, while Canva Pro unlocks premium features like a larger music library and brand kit integration.
Canva’s intuitive interface and video templates help you produce professional reels quickly, even if you’re new to video editing.
Adobe Premiere Rush
Adobe Premiere Rush brings professional video editing to your mobile device and desktop, making it perfect for creators who want to work across platforms.
This app offers advanced editing tools like color correction, motion graphics, and audio mixing, all within a user-friendly interface. You can start editing on your phone and finish on your computer, thanks to seamless cloud storage and Adobe Creative Cloud integration.
Premiere Rush is ideal for content creators who want more control over their video content without the complexity of Adobe Premiere Pro.
It’s especially useful for those who need advanced features like multi-device editing and professional audio tools for their Instagram reels.
Splice
Splice is known for its powerful editing tools packed into a simple interface, making it a go-to reel editor for many content creators.
With multi-layer editing, you can overlay video clips, add text overlays, and use a wide range of sound effects and music tracks to make your reels stand out.
Splice also offers speed ramping, chroma key for green screen effects, and precise trimming tools. While the app is free to use, some advanced features require a subscription.
Splice is perfect for creators who want a mobile video editor that delivers professional results without a complex learning curve.
CapCut
CapCut has quickly become one of the most popular apps for making reels, offering professional editing tools for free and without watermarks.
It’s an automatic reel maker that saves you time by generating polished video content with AI-powered features.
CapCut provides a wide range of video templates, smooth transitions, keyframing, and an extensive effects library that’s regularly updated.
The app also supports cloud storage, making it easy to access your projects from any device.
CapCut’s music library, sound effects, and auto-captions help you create engaging reels for any social media platform, making it a top choice for both beginners and advanced users.
VN Video Editor
VN Video Editor strikes a balance between professional editing features and an easy learning curve, making it ideal for beginners who want to grow their skills.
The app offers multi-track video editing, a rich collection of filters, and advanced tools like keyframe animation and picture-in-picture effects. You can easily import music, sound effects, and text overlays, and even use the intelligent cutout feature to remove backgrounds.
VN Video Editor’s flexible import options and creative templates make it a versatile reel maker for anyone looking to create high-quality video content for Instagram or other social media platforms.
Final Cut Pro
Final Cut Pro is the gold standard for Mac users who need complex video editing for their reels. It offers professional-grade color grading, advanced audio editing, and motion graphics templates, along with a magnetic timeline for efficient editing.
While the learning curve is steeper compared to mobile apps, Final Cut Pro’s advanced editing features and export quality make it the best choice for content creators and businesses who want to produce top-tier Instagram videos and manage large-scale content creation.
It’s perfect for those who need more advanced features and are comfortable with desktop editing.
KineMaster
KineMaster is a mobile video editor that stands out for its multi-layer editing and frame-by-frame precision.
You can trim clips, add text overlays, and use the asset store’s wide range of music, sound effects, and transitions to enhance your reels.
KineMaster also supports chroma key for green screen effects and advanced speed control.
The free version adds a watermark, but upgrading unlocks premium features and removes limitations.
KineMaster is a great option for creators who want advanced editing tools in a simple interface, all from their mobile app.
FilmoraGo
FilmoraGo brings the power of Wondershare’s desktop video editor to your phone, offering a balance of simplicity and advanced features.
With one-tap theme editing, keyframe animations, and picture-in-picture effects, you can create dynamic and engaging reels.
FilmoraGo’s audio library and tools for speed ramping and audio ducking help you fine-tune your video content. The app offers both a free plan and premium features for those who want more control over their editing.
FilmoraGo is perfect for creators who want a mobile video editor that’s easy to use but still offers advanced editing features.
Prequel
Prequel is all about creative effects and filters, giving your reels a unique and artistic look. The app offers VHS overlays, film grain, advanced text animation, and custom aspect ratio controls.
Prequel’s one-tap editing presets make it easy to create visually stunning reels, even if you’re new to video editing.
With both free and premium options, Prequel is ideal for content creators who want to add a distinctive visual style to their Instagram videos and stand out on any social media platform.
These apps offer a wide range of editing tools, music libraries, and advanced features to help you create the best Instagram reels in 2025. Whether you’re looking for a simple interface, complex video editing, or premium features, there’s a reel maker here to match your content creation style and take your social media presence to the next level.
Comparison Of Reel Making Apps
Pricing Comparison
| App | Free Plan | Premium Plan | One-Time Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
| InShot | Yes (with watermark) | $3.99/month, $17.99/year | $49.99 (Lifetime) |
| Splice | Yes | $9.99/week | Not available |
| LumaFusion | No | Not applicable | $29.99 |
| Yes | Not applicable | Not applicable | |
| FlexClip | Yes | Various tiers | Not available |
| Canva | Yes | $12.99/month | Not available |
| Adobe Premiere Rush | Limited trial | $9.99/month | Not available |
| Final Cut Pro | No | Not applicable | $299.99 |
Feature Comparison
| App | Multi-Layer Editing | Music Library | Text Animation | AI Features | Export Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InShot | Yes | Extensive | Advanced | Yes | High |
| Splice | Yes | Extensive | Basic | Limited | High |
| CapCut | Yes | Extensive | Advanced | Yes | High |
| KineMaster | Yes | Basic | Intermediate | Limited | High |
| No | Limited | Basic | Limited | Medium | |
| FilmoraGo | Yes | Good | Intermediate | Yes | High |
Ease of Use Ratings
- Most Beginner-Friendly: Instagram’s built-in editor, CapCut
- Balanced Learning Curve: InShot, FilmoraGo, Canva
- More Complex But Powerful: Adobe Premiere Rush, KineMaster
- Professional Learning Curve: Final Cut Pro, LumaFusion
Best Apps For Different Types of Reels
Best Apps For Beginners
For those just starting their reel creation journey, simplicity combined with enough features to create engaging content is key:
- InShot – Offers an intuitive interface with guided editing and simple controls
- CapCut – Provides templates and preset effects that make editing straightforward
- Instagram’s Built-In Editor – Allows you to create basic reels without downloading additional apps
“InShot is designed for those who seek professional quality without dealing with complex apps. It allows you to create stylish Reels easily.”
Best Apps For Professional Content Creators
Professional creators need more advanced features and precise control:
- Adobe Premiere Rush – Offers professional-grade editing with Creative Cloud integration
- LumaFusion – Provides desktop-quality editing on mobile devices
- Final Cut Pro – Delivers the highest quality output for those using desktop editors
“LumaFusion isn’t only for creating Reels. It’s an app for editing with an innovative timeline to give you more control. You can lock, mix, and mute tracks, all easily from your device.”
Best Apps For Business Marketing
Businesses require efficiency, brand consistency, and features that help convert viewers:
- Canva – Excels with brand kit integration and template-based editing
- InShot – Offers professional-looking results with a minimal learning curve
- Adobe Premiere Rush – Provides consistent quality across different marketing materials
How To Choose The Right Reel Making App?
Key Features To Look For
When choosing the best app to make reels, focus on features that match your content creation goals.
Look for a video editor with an intuitive interface, a wide range of editing tools, and support for the right aspect ratio for Instagram videos. Advanced features like keyframe animation, chroma key, and a music library with royalty-free tracks can help your reels stand out.
Make sure the app offers text overlays, sound effects, and video templates to speed up your workflow and improve your user experience.
Understanding Your Specific Needs
Think about what you want from a reel maker. Are you a beginner who needs a simple interface and easy video templates, or a professional looking for complex video editing and cloud storage?
Consider if you’ll be editing mostly on mobile or desktop, and whether you need automatic reel makers to save time. Also, check if the app supports your preferred social media platform and if it integrates with your Instagram account for direct sharing.
Free Vs. Paid Options
Free reel editors are great for learning the basics and creating quick, simple content. They usually include core editing tools, music libraries, and basic transitions, but may add watermarks or limit access to premium features and advanced editing tools.
Paid apps, on the other hand, unlock more advanced features, remove watermarks, and provide exclusive resources like premium templates, customer support, and better audio libraries.
If you’re serious about content creation or want a professional look, investing in a premium plan can save time and boost your results.
Tips For Creating Engaging Reels
To make your reels more engaging, start with a clear hook in the first few seconds to grab attention.
Trending Effects and Transitions
Using trending effects and transitions can help your reels get noticed on any social media platform.
Look for a reel editor that regularly updates its effects library, so you can add the latest filters, glitch effects, or smooth transitions to your Instagram videos. Experiment with split screens, zooms, and animated overlays to keep your content fresh and visually appealing.
Using Text and Captions Effectively
Text overlays and captions are essential for making your reels accessible and easy to understand, especially when viewers watch without sound. Use bold, readable fonts and position your text where it won’t block important visuals.
Many editing apps offer automatic captions or templates for quick text addition. Highlight key messages and calls to action to encourage interaction and boost your social media growth.
Music Selection Strategy
Choosing the right music can set the tone for your reel and increase viewer retention. Use the app’s music library to find trending tracks or sound effects that fit your video content.
Make sure the music’s energy matches your visuals, and adjust background noise or volume levels for clarity. If you want to use custom audio, check the app’s terms of use and privacy practices to ensure you have the right permissions for your Instagram account.
FAQ’s:
What Is The Best Free App To Make Reels?
CapCut stands out as the best free app to make reels in 2025, offering robust editing tools, effects, and transitions without watermarks. InShot is a close second with its intuitive interface, though its free version includes a watermark.
Can I Make Reels Without Downloading An App?
Yes, you can create reels directly within the Instagram app using its built-in editor.
While convenient, this approach limits your editing capabilities compared to dedicated apps. The Instagram reel editor provides basic functions like adding filters, music, and simple text overlays, but lacks advanced features like multi-layer editing and precise control.
How Do I Add Trending Music To My Reels?
To add trending music to your reels, you can either use Instagram’s built-in music library by tapping the music icon during creation, or import audio through third-party apps like InShot, which allows you to add custom sounds.
Many reel maker apps also feature their own regularly updated music libraries with trending songs.
What Video Format Is Best For Instagram Reels?
The optimal video format for Instagram reels is MP4 with H.264 codec in 9:16 vertical aspect ratio. For best quality, aim for 1080×1920 pixel resolution with a frame rate of 30fps and a maximum file size of 4GB.
How Long Can Instagram Reels Be?
As of April 2025, Instagram reels can be up to 90 seconds long for most users. The platform previously limited reels to 60 seconds but extended the duration to allow for more comprehensive content. The minimum length remains 3 seconds.
Can I Edit Reels On My Computer?
Yes, you can edit reels on your computer using desktop applications like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or web-based tools like Canva.
After editing, you can either transfer the video to your mobile device for uploading or use Instagram’s desktop upload feature. Desktop editing often provides more precise control and advanced editing features than mobile apps.
Conclusion
The best app to make reels depends on your specific needs, technical skills, and content goals.
For beginners and casual creators, InShot and CapCut offer the ideal balance of features and usability.
Professional content creators might prefer the advanced capabilities of LumaFusion or Adobe’s Creative Cloud tools, while businesses may find Canva’s template approach most efficient.
What matters most is finding a reel editor that fits seamlessly into your workflow and helps you translate your creative vision into engaging social media content.
With the right tools in your arsenal, you’ll be able to create reels that captivate audiences and stand out in increasingly crowded feeds.
Remember that while the video editing app is important, it’s your creativity and understanding of your audience that will ultimately determine the success of your content. The perfect reel maker simply helps you execute your vision more effectively and efficiently.
