The Best Video Editing Apps for Instagram Reels & Stories in 2026

Creating scroll-stopping content for Instagram is top of mind for a lot of creators in 2026. Whether you’re putting together high-impact Reels or keeping your Stories on-brand, the right editing apps can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’re sharing the best video editing apps for Instagram Reels and Stories in 2026, so you can work faster and keep your audience coming back for more.

Why You Need Dedicated Video Editing Apps for Instagram in 2026

Instagram’s built-in camera editor can handle basic trims and filters, but it doesn’t give you the tools needed for advanced, attention-grabbing Reels and Stories.

Reels are where real reach happens – they can appear in more feeds than static posts, but only if you hook viewers in the first few seconds. Our Social Media Study confirms this: Reels in 2025 generated more interactions than posts, including comments, saves, and shares.

The takeaway is simple: if you want your content to stop the scroll, your Reels and Stories need to be eye-catching from the very first frame. Dedicated video editing apps give you the features like AI captions, beat-syncing, multi-layer effects, and high-quality exports, to make that happen.

Top 10 Video Editing Apps for Instagram Reels in 2026

With that in mind, let’s get into the tools that actually make this easier.

1. Edits by Instagram (iOS & Android)

Edits is Instagram’s own video editing app launched in 2025, and it’s quickly becoming the go-to tool for creators in 2026. Built specifically for the content creator workflow, Edits combines idea tracking, video planning, advanced editing, and actionable insights.

Highlights:

• Direct publishing to IG and Facebook
• 4K export, no watermark
• Timeline precision editing
• AI effects & auto-captions
• Shareable analytics PDF for brands
• Weekly AI content ideas

2026 Recent Updates (January-February):

• AI-powered effects for specific objects (tag, scribble, outline, blur, sparkle)
• Color correction tools
• Custom caption animations
• Keyframes for opacity control
• Voice recording with countdown and retake features
• Adjustment layers
• Safe zones and snap-to-edge features
• Volume ducking and 150% volume boost
• Send drafts to collaborators

Pricing: 100% Free (for now)

Best For: Instagram-first creators and brands wanting an integrated, analytics-driven experience.

Platform Availability: iOS and Android (requires Instagram account login)

💡 Creator Insight: Using Edits will help your reach on Instagram “a little bit,” according to Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s head. While the boost is small, the workflow efficiency and integrated analytics make it invaluable for Instagram-first creators.

Edits is Instagram’s answer to CapCut, and while it’s not yet feature-complete, it’s evolving rapidly. For creators who primarily post to Instagram, the seamless integration, free 4K exports, and built-in analytics make it a no-brainer first choice. However, if you need templates or create content for multiple platforms, you may still turn to CapCut as a supplement.

2. CapCut

CapCut has exploded in popularity and remains the top choice for video editing apps for Instagram stories and reels in 2026. Developed by ByteDance (TikTok’s parent company), CapCut offers an impressive suite of AI-powered tools that make creating viral-worthy content incredibly easy.

2026 Updates:

• Enhanced AI features including auto-captions in 130+ languages
• AI background removal with one tap
• Beat-sync effects that automatically match your cuts to music
• Smart object tracking for dynamic content
• Script-to-video generation

Pricing:

• Free Version: Surprisingly robust with basic editing tools, filters, transitions, and 1080p export
• Pro Version: $7.99-$19.99/month (varies by region)

• 4K export capability
• No watermarks on premium templates
• Advanced AI tools
• Cloud storage options

Best For: TikTok and Instagram Reels creators, beginners wanting powerful AI tools, anyone making short-form social content

Platform Availability: iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Web browser

3. InShot

InShot remains one of the most downloaded video editing apps for instagram with millions of positive reviews. Built specifically for social media, it’s an ideal choice for editing Instagram Reels and Stories on the go.

2026 Features:

• AI-assisted background removal
• Beat-sync effects
• Smart sky replacement
• Smooth text animations
• Auto-generated captions
• Support for all Instagram aspect ratios (1:1, 4:5, 9:16)

Pricing:

• Free: Basic features with watermark on some templates
• Pro: $4.99/month, $19.99/year, or ~$49.99 lifetime (one-time purchase)

Best For: Influencers, solo creators, small businesses needing quick mobile edits

Platform Availability: iOS and Android

4. Filmora (FilmoraGo)

Filmora offers a perfect balance between power and ease of use, making it one of the best video editing software for Instagram reels for creators who want more control without the complexity of professional tools.

2026 Enhancements:

• Beat detection technology
• Auto-speed adjustments
• Smart transitions
• AI Cutout tool for background removal
• 1GB cloud storage for cross-device editing
• Drag-and-drop interface

Pricing:

• Basic Plan: $9.99/month
• Advanced Plan: $34.99/year
• 7-day free trial available on all plans

Best For: Mobile-first businesses, brand managers, content creators wanting polished short videos

Platform Availability: iOS, Android, Windows, Mac

5. Splice

Splice, developed by GoPro, remains an excellent choice for video editing apps for instagram stories, especially for creators who shoot action footage or need precise speed control.

Key Features:

• Advanced speed control and slow-motion effects
• Professional transitions
• Multiple video tracks
• Audio library with sound effects
• Direct Instagram sharing
• Vertical format support for Reels and Stories

Pricing:

• Free with all core features
• In-app purchases for premium templates and effects

Best For: Action content creators, GoPro users, anyone needing advanced speed ramping

Platform Availability: iOS and Android (Quik app for Android)

6. Descript 

Descript brings a unique approach to video editing that’s perfect for talk-heavy content, interviews, and educational Reels.

2026 Standout Features:

• Edit video by editing text (revolutionary workflow)
• Automatic transcription and captions
• AI voice cloning with Overdub
• Studio-quality audio cleanup
• Remove filler words automatically
• Screen recording built-in

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Limited features
• Paid Plans: Starting around $12-15/month

Best For: Podcasters, educators, interview-style content creators, anyone working with dialogue-heavy videos

Platform Availability: Web, Mac, Windows (no dedicated mobile app)

7. Mojo

Mojo specializes in creating eye-catching animated Instagram Stories and Reels with professionally designed templates.

Key Features:

• 100+ animated templates optimized for Stories
• Automatic text animations
• Music synchronization
• Customizable branding
• Direct Instagram Stories export

Pricing:

• Free Version: Basic templates
• Pro: Pay to access professional template library

Best For: Story-focused creators, brands maintaining consistent visual identity

Platform Availability: iOS (Beta for Android)

8. Canva 

Canva has evolved beyond static graphics to become a comprehensive video editing app for Instagram reels and stories, especially for creators who need both photo and video editing capabilities.

2026 Video Features:

• Thousands of video templates for Reels and Stories
• Drag-and-drop video editing
• Brand kit for consistent styling
• Stock video and music library
• Text animations and transitions
• Magic Resize for multiple formats

Pricing:

• Free Version: Basic features
• Canva Pro: Approximately $13-15/month with full features

Best For: Beginners, small businesses, creators who also need graphic design tools

Platform Availability: Web, iOS, Android

9. Quik (GoPro) 

Quik, also by GoPro, focuses on speed and automation—perfect for creators who need to produce content quickly.

2026 Features:

• 23 themes (Android) / 26 themes (iOS)
• Automatic video assembly
• Beat-detection sync
• Customizable soundtrack selection
• Photo and video integration
• Multiple export formats

Pricing:

• Free with core features
• Premium: $9.99/month for advanced features (previously free trial available)

Best For: Creators with lots of footage who want automatic editing, businesses needing quick turnaround content

Platform Availability: iOS and Android

10. VN Video Editor

VN is a powerful free video editor that rivals paid apps in functionality, making it one of the best video editing apps for Instagram reels for budget-conscious creators.

Key Features:

• Multi-layer timeline
• Keyframe animations
• Chroma key (green screen)
• Curve speed adjustments
• Professional transitions
• No watermark even on free version

Pricing: Completely Free with no watermark

Best For: Advanced mobile editors, creators on a budget who need professional tools

Platform Availability: iOS and Android

Choosing the Right Video Editing App for Instagram

When selecting from these video editing apps for Instagram reels and stories, consider:

For Beginners:

• CapCut oder Edits: Best overall free option with AI features
• InShot: Simple, intuitive mobile editing
• Canva: All-in-one design and video tool

For Advanced Creators:

• Filmora: Professional features, reasonable price
• VN Video Editor: Advanced tools, completely free
• Descript: Text-based editing for dialogue content

For Specific Needs:

• Talk content: Descript 
• Animated Stories: Mojo
• Action Content: Splice/Quik

For Budget-Conscious:

• VN Video Editor – Free with no watermark
• CapCut Free – Robust features at no cost
• Edits 

2026 Trends in Instagram Video Editing

• AI-Powered Features: Almost every top video editing software for Instagram reels now includes AI capabilities from auto-captions to background removal to smart scene detection.
• Cross-Platform Editing: Cloud-based workflows allow creators to start editing on mobile and finish on desktop seamlessly.
• Vertical-First Design: All modern Instagram editing apps prioritize 9:16 aspect ratio for Reels and Stories.
• Template Libraries: Pre-made templates synced to trending audio make content creation faster than ever.
• Advanced Audio Tools: Better audio editing, noise removal, and voice enhancement are standard in 2026.

Final Thoughts

The best Instagram video editor is the one that fits your workflow. Start simple, stay consistent, and grow with your content. Tools like Edits, CapCut, and VN help you do more with less friction.

Need a hand scheduling and tracking performance? Metricool helps you plan, publish, and analyze your Instagram content from one central dashboard; Reels included.

Ready to create amazing Instagram content? 

Download one of these video editing apps for Instagram stories and reels today and start experimenting. The best way to learn is by doing, so pick an app, shoot some footage, and let your creativity flow!