Consider you've captured an incredible moment on your phone—a perfect shot just begging to go viral. But now what? From raw footage to a polished, share-worthy clip requires the right tool. Short-form content dominates social media, and grabbing attention in a sea of quick videos can feel daunting. That's where this guide comes in. We will explore the best short-form video editors to help you turn those raw moments into viral magic while keeping it fun and straightforward.
One standout tool is Crayo AI's clip creator tool. It makes editing so easy that even beginners can produce engaging short videos in no time.
Table Of Contents
What Is A Short Form Video?
Short-form video editors are creative wizards who craft videos under 60 seconds, although some can stretch this to three minutes. These videos are quick, impactful snippets designed to grab attention and keep viewers scrolling for more. As platforms like TikTok lead the way, short-form content is rapidly taking over social media. If your brand isn’t already creating these, it’s time to jump on the bandwagon.
The Ability of Short-Form Video Content
Short-form videos are more than just trendy—they're essential. TikTok has become the fastest-growing social media platform, reaching 1.53 billion users in just seven years. Consumers overwhelmingly prefer short videos to learn about products and services. And these videos aren't just about views; they deliver results. They boast the highest ROI and are excellent for lead generation and engagement. Plus, they stick with viewers—a third of these videos are watched more than 80% of the way through.
Why Short-Form Videos Are Your Secret Weapon
Marketers are catching on to short-form videos, with 47% believing they’re more likely to go viral. Adults in the U.S. already spend 46 minutes daily on TikTok, and that's expected to grow. These videos aren't just trendy; they're captivating and compelling. So, if you're looking to make an impact, now's the time to start creating short-form content.
10 Practical Tips On How To Edit A Video For Short
1. Effortless Editing with Crayo AI
Crayo AI transforms short-form video creation by allowing you to produce multiple videos rapidly. You can go from an idea to a complete video in no time. Just draft a prompt, pick your style from Crayo’s free templates, and export your video. This tool even auto-generates captions, effects, backgrounds, and music. Ready to make money with platforms like TikTok? Crayo can help you get there fast.
Try the clip creator tool on Crayo’s homepage today—no account needed!
2. Know Your Platform’s Time Limits
Each platform has its video length restrictions, which can change. Instagram Reels have a maximum length of 90 seconds, YouTube Shorts are capped at 60 seconds, and TikTok allows uploads up to 10 minutes, but it’s experimenting with longer formats.
3. Orientation Matters
For TikTok, Reels, and Shorts, use a 9:16 aspect ratio. If you’re repurposing content, don’t cut out important parts of the action or the speaker.
4. Record Vertically Whenever Possible
You can resize horizontal content for vertical platforms, but recording vertically to start is best. If you want to post on both horizontal and vertical platforms, try using two devices, like a phone and a camera, to capture both orientations.
5. Be Cautious When Repurposing Content
Not all long-form content works well as short clips. Tailor your content for each platform and understand their unique styles. Adding on-screen text, effects, or sounds can help make your existing content fit the platform’s style.
6. Avoid Over-Polishing Your Videos
While eye-catching transitions and graphics can succeed on platforms like TikTok, they can also risk making your content seem out of place. Many popular videos have a more authentic, unpolished aesthetic.
7. Captions Are Essential
Most platforms offer automatic captioning tools. Check for errors, and consider using burned-in captions to ensure accessibility.
8. Edit for Social Viewing
Editing practices for social networks can help your videos stand out. Use big visuals that are “readable” on screens, and understand the story of your video to arrange the pieces cohesively.
9. Authenticity Is Key
Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Present yourself authentically, and don’t force yourself into trends that don’t make sense.
10. Use Sounds and Music Wisely
Sound and music libraries are powerful tools, but they’re not required for success on every platform. Look to similar creators to see what popular sounds they’re using and how they engage their audience.
Crayo AI is the fastest way to create short videos. Create unlimited videos quickly and use opportunities to make money with platforms like TikTok. Use the clip creator tool on Crayo’s homepage today to get started.
Related Reading
22 Best Short Form Video Editor For High-Quality Videos
1. Crayo AI: Fast-Track Your Shorts
Crayo AI is the speed demon of video editors, turning your ideas into viral shorts in seconds. It's built for creators wanting to cash in on platforms like TikTok. Just jot down an outline, pick a style, and export. Crayo handles captions, effects, background, and music.
2. Adobe Express: More Than Just Edits
Adobe Express is like having a Swiss Army knife for video creation. Beyond basic edits, you can add masks, animations, and color palettes. It's part of the Adobe ecosystem, and you can access a vast library of assets. Great for quick edits and resizing for social media.
Pros
Dynamic tools for design
File sharing via private links
Cons
Older files may not be compatible
Limited customization on charts
3. Veed.io: Web-Based Versatility
Veed.io is your online video editing companion. It offers a clean interface with tools that both newbies and veterans can use. It’s responsive, though subscriptions can get pricey. It struggles when working with media but shines with templates.
Pros
Free account option
User-friendly interface
Responsive performance
Cons
Expensive subscriptions
Media upload issues
4. Animoto: Templates for All Formats
Animoto steps away from vertical-only editing, providing templates for all formats. It's perfect for transforming photos into videos or making explainer videos. However, it lacks creative effects and transitions.
Pros
Free trial with watermark
Simple to use
Cons
Basic editing tools
Restrictive interface
5. Quik by GoPro: Speed and Simplicity
Quik by GoPro delivers a quick video creation experience. Automatic editing means you trade off some control for convenience. It’s perfect for on-the-go editing but lacks advanced features.
Pros
Free to use
Automatic editing
No watermarks
Cons
Limited editing control
Preset themes limit customization
6. Filmora: Templates Galore
Filmora is a playground for creators, loaded with templates, effects, and transitions. You can split clips, edit them, and replace cuts with a tap. It's not for filming, but you can upload clips for editing.
Pros
Fast render speed
Intuitive interface
Lots of effects
Cons
No multicam editing
Disappointing AI features
7. LumaFusion: Pay Once, Own Forever
LumaFusion offers a robust editing experience on mobile or tablet. Pay once, and you’re set. The interface is versatile, and editing is a breeze, with almost everything a tap away. It's great for those serious about visual content.
Pros
Available on iOS and Android
Easy to use
Many features
Cons
Extra taps are needed sometimes
Not ideal for casual users
8. CapCut: Mobile Marvel
CapCut is a mobile app that is about ease and creativity. Share directly to social media and enjoy an intuitive interface. It’s mobile-only, which doesn’t satisfy desktop users, but it’s a great tool for quick edits.
Pros
Direct sharing to social
No watermarks
Intuitive interface
Cons
Mobile-only
Performance varies on older devices
9. KineMaster: Templates and Tools
KineMaster offers a robust template library and professional editing tools. Write on video clips, add animated layers, and record sound. The timeline displays in landscape mode, which sets it apart from others.
Pros
Great selection of tools
Easy to learn
Many free features
Cons
No outright purchase option
10. Opus Pro: AI-Driven Content
Thanks to AI-driven tools, Opus Pro transforms long videos into engaging clips. It's perfect for content creators and educators. While limited language support and cost can be downsides, it offers efficient content creation.
Pros
AI-driven tools
Active speaker detection
AI keyword highlighter
Cons
Limited language support
Cost can add up
11. Picsart: Photo Animation
Picsart is primarily for animating photos. It allows you to add up to 50 clips per video, crop, autofill backgrounds, and split clips. While advanced features are locked behind a paywall, it’s user-friendly.
Pros
Mobile-friendly
Range of free features
All-in-one tool
Cons
Advanced features are limited to paid plans
Navigation can be tricky
12. Canva: Video Made Easy
Canva Video Editor brings Canva's simplicity to video creation. It’s perfect for beginners but lacks advanced editing tools. Premium features require a subscription.
Pros
User-friendly interface
Versatile video types
Cons
Limited advanced features
Premium features require a subscription
13. VideoLeap: AI Tools Galore
VideoLeap is packed with AI tools and effects. While useful features are paywalled, it’s fun to use. The phone version is limited to portrait mode, but the tablet version offers more flexibility.
Pros
Choice of payment options
Simple and fun to use
Loaded with AI tools
Cons
Useful features behind paywalls
The phone only supports portrait mode
14. Vimeo Create Easy AI Workflow
Vimeo Create uses AI to help you create videos quickly. With templates and AI-powered creation, you can save time and publish videos directly to your brand's Vimeo channel.
Pros
Easy to use
Large stock library
Free plan
Cons
For casual editing only
Trimming can be laggy
15. Vizard AI: Clip Creator
Vizard.ai is all about transforming long videos into social-ready clips. It’s user-friendly and AI-driven, but the free plan is limited. It’s perfect for marketers and content creators.
Pros
Suitable for non-technical users
AI-driven features
Multiple language support
Cons
Limited free plan
Not for complex editing
16. YouCut: Simple and Effective
YouCut offers templates and stock footage to get you started. The interface is simple but has a long list of pro-level editing tools. The free version adds a watermark.
Pros
Free to download
Works flawlessly
Suitable for beginners
Cons
Purchase needed for full features
Watermark on the free version
17. Synthesia: AI Avatars Galore
Synthesia generates videos using AI avatars, offering text-to-speech and voice cloning. This method is perfect for brands like Nike and Google, but avatars lack human emotion.
Pros
No film production is needed
Wide range of avatars
Automatic embed updates
Cons
Avatars can appear as robotic
Lack of media blending
18. Deepbrain AI: Text to Video
DeepBrain AI turns written content into engaging videos using text prompts or documents. With over 100 AI avatars, it’s perfect for those needing a human touch. However, you can’t preview videos.
Pros
The large cast of avatars
Smooth ChatGPT integration
Multiple export options
Cons
No video preview
Formatting issues
19. Pictory: Script to Video
Pictory is ideal for those with no video experience. It creates videos for social media or your website by providing a script or article. It’s highly customizable but needs heavy editing.
Pros
Flexible video creation
Customizable output
Cons
Needs heavy editing
The first draft requires work
20. Simplified AI: One-Click Clips
Simplified AI creates multiple AI-enhanced clips from a long-form video. It offers a vast library of templates and a user-friendly interface. However, it’s limited to in-depth topics.
Pros
Fast text generation
Helpful editing tools
User-friendly interface
Cons
Limited for complex topics
No tone customization
21. InVideo: Versatile and User-Friendly
InVideo is versatile and ideal for beginners. With a vast library of templates and stock features, you can create videos in any style. However, exporting takes time.
Pros
Large library access
Easy to use
Automated text-to-speech
Cons
Exporting is lengthy
Requires stable internet
22. Biteable: Quick and Professional
Biteable offers quick, professional videos with animated templates. While simple tools make it easy to use, premium pricing can be a downside.
Pros
Clean interface
Easy to use
Unique assets
Cons
Premium pricing
Limited customization
Complete 3-Step Guide On How To Create Viral Clips and Shorts In Seconds With Crayo
Crayo AI is your shortcut to crafting short-form videos in no time. This tool lets you churn out unlimited video content at once, auto-generating captions, effects, backgrounds, and music. With Crayo, you can jump from concept to viral footage in seconds. Just jot down an outline or prompt, pick a style, and export. It’s that simple. The Tiktok Creator Fund program can turn those viral clips into cash.
Try Crayo’s free clip creator tool today—right from the homepage, no account needed—and watch your content go viral in minutes.
Related Reading
How To Choose The Best Short-Form Video Editor
User-Friendly Interface
Find an editor that’s straightforward and intuitive. You want essential editing functions like trimming and transitions at your fingertips. And honestly, if you’re new to this, a user-friendly design is non-negotiable. Drag-and-drop features can also make your life a lot easier by speeding up your workflow and allowing you to arrange video clips and effects quickly.
Ready-to-Go Templates
Templates make life easier, especially for TikTok and Instagram Reels. Look for theme-based templates designed for specific platforms or video types. They can help you create catchy, well-designed videos that perform better.
Device Compatibility
Ensure the editor works on your preferred platform, whether it's Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android. Cloud-based editors offer the flexibility to move between devices without missing a beat. And if you’re always on the go, a mobile app can be a lifesaver.
Visual Effects and Transitions
Choose an editor with a rich library of effects, filters, and text overlays. You want to keep your content visually engaging, so look for customization options that let you fine-tune effects to match your creative style.
Fast and Efficient
Speed matters. Opt for editors with fast export options, wildly if you’re churning out multiple videos for social media. Some lightweight apps offer faster performance on mobile or low-spec devices, so choose a tool optimized for your hardware.
Sound and Music
Built-in music libraries with royalty-free tracks are ideal. If you narrate your videos, look for editors with voiceover tools and background noise reduction. It’s about having the right audio to complement your visuals.
Smooth Social Media Integration
Some editors allow you to export and directly share to social media platforms, which saves you time. Quick presets for different aspect ratios, like vertical, square, or horizontal, are also handy for adapting your content to various platforms.
Price and Licensing
There’s a range, from free tools with limited features to paid options with advanced tools. Free versions often have watermarks, so consider upgrading if you need cleaner results. Choose what fits your budget and needs.
Extra Features
Text and subtitles are essential if your content includes dialogue or captions. Some editors offer AI-driven features for automated editing, which can be a real time-saver. Look for these additional features to enhance your workflow.
Community and Support
A strong community and access to tutorials can help you quickly learn the tool. Also, choose an editor with accessible customer support if you encounter issues. You don’t want to be stuck with a problem you can’t solve.
How To Use Short-Form Videos For Marketing
1. Brand Challenges: Get Your Audience Involved
Short-form videos are perfect for creating interactive branded challenges that can go viral. Think of them as modern-day commercials. According to a social media trends report, 20% of marketers use branded challenges, with 42% saying they exceed expectations. They're among the top social media strategies for 2024.
2. Influencer Ads: A Winning Combo
Influencer marketing is a staple in the industry and isn't going anywhere. More brands are using influencers in short-form content to promote their products effectively. Of companies using influencer marketing, 88% find it compelling, and 55% plan to increase their investment in 2024. Famous TikTok influencer TiffFoods recently starred in an ad for Fly by Jing.
3. Product Teasers: Build Anticipation
Product teasers give consumers a sneak peek at what's to come. Short-form videos can be a cost-effective way to generate buzz around an upcoming launch. Because they’re short and engaging, they can go viral.
4. User-Generated Content: Authentic and Relatable
User-generated content (UGC) is highly effective for marketers. In a HubSpot survey of over 500 marketers, 92% said UGC boosts brand awareness. It offers fantastic ROI, with 40% of marketers calling it a high-ROI format on social media. Why is UGC so influential? Brands can publish videos that evoke emotion and feel genuine and relatable without burning through resources.
5. Behind-the-Brand Videos: Show Your Human Side
Consumers want to see the people behind the brand. A Sprout Social study found that 70% of consumers felt more connected to brands whose CEO is active on social media platforms. Personalizing your content can help you engage with your audience more deeply.
6. Explainer Videos: Educate and Engage
Educational content is a top priority for marketers in 2024. Think of it as added-value content that helps your audience daily. According to a 2024 Wyzowl report, viewers want to see more brand explainer videos. These videos can help brands improve lead generation and build stronger brand loyalty.
Crayo AI is the fastest way to create short-form videos. Create unlimited short-form videos at once. Crayo even auto-generates captions, effects, background, and music for you. Try Crayo’s free clip creator tool today — just click the ‘Try Now’ button on our homepage to get started. No account is required!
Create Viral Shorts In Seconds With Crayo
Crayo AI is transforming short-form content creation. This tool lets you create unlimited shorts in no time. It auto-generates captions, effects, backgrounds, and music. You provide the idea; Crayo does the rest. Think about the time you’ll save as the app cuts your workflow from hours to seconds. With an intuitive interface, you just need to write an outline or prompt.
Then, customize the style by selecting a background, voice narrator, and music. Crayo’s free templates make it easy to craft the perfect clip. Finally, finish and export your masterpiece. No account is required to get started. Just hit the ‘Try Now’ button on our homepage.
Make Money with the TikTok Creator Fund
The tikTok creator fund is a great way to make money with your content. With Crayo, you can create viral shorts quickly and easily. The TikTok Creator Fund pays you based on the performance of your videos, so it’s essential to post regularly and engage your audience. Crayo helps you do this by streamlining the creation process.
You can create multiple videos at once and schedule them to post at optimal times. This increases your chances of going viral and earning more money. So don’t miss out on this opportunity. Take advantage of the tikTok creator fund and make money with your content today.