Sooner than expected, Instagram launched their new editing app called Edits. 🙌 We couldn’t wait to try it out and are more than happy to share our first impressions with you!
Overall feeling
The app is very user-friendly and feels very natural to use. The interface looks very familiar if you’ve used CapCut before, it’s almost a twin. 🫣 That said, Edits offers plenty of functionalities but doesn’t go quite as deep as CapCut when it comes to advanced editing tools. However, where CapCut locks some features behind a paywall, Edits is completely free. Speaking about a big plus, right?
For businesses that are just starting out with Reels, we’d actually recommend Edits over CapCut. It’s less overwhelming, more accessible, and doesn’t cost you a thing.
What we love
One of the standout things about Edits is that your exported videos don’t come with a watermark. That alone makes it a strong alternative to other editing apps. On top of that, the app makes it really easy to add voiceovers directly while editing, and it gives you full access to Instagram’s Sound Library. We also really liked the automatic captioning feature. It’s quick and accurate, plus it saves you a lot of time.
What we miss
There are still a few things we felt were missing. For starters, there’s currently no search option for sound effects, which means you have to scroll endlessly to find a specific sound. We also noticed the absence of more advanced editing features like speed ramps or speed curve adjustments, which are often key for more dynamic content. Lastly, video stabilization isn’t available yet, which could be a drawback if you’re shooting on the go and need smoother footage.
Bonus features we didn’t expect
What pleasantly surprised us was how Edits goes beyond just editing. You can view analytics for your published Reels directly within the app, including a retention graph that shows how long viewers are staying engaged. A really helpful tool for creators!
The app also has a strong focus on inspiration. ✨ There’s a dedicated section where you can scroll through trending or curated Reels, revisit saved content from Instagram, and even use sticky notes to jot down ideas and attach them to future video projects. It’s a small but thoughtful touch that helps keep your creative workflow in one place.
Edits feels like a very promising tool for creators and businesses, especially those who are just diving into Reels. It’s easy to use, offers a lot of value for zero cost, and integrates tightly with the Instagram ecosystem. While there’s room for growth, especially for more advanced users, it’s a great place to start. 🤳