On Tuesday, Instagram rolled out a major update that has people buzzing.
The platform now includes a new in-app editing tool, Instagram Edits, and it’s already turning heads. This advanced editing tool feels like a direct response to apps like CapCut that have been dominating the mobile editing game. Instagram Edits is rather impressive. For spontaneous content, stories, or polished reels, you can now do almost everything inside the app itself. It seems to have closed the gap in a big way.
Let’s begin by addressing the main question that some might have, especially if you’re unaware of this update.
What is Instagram Edits?
Instagram’s new in-app editing brings a more intuitive timeline view for Reels, plus a boost in tools like:
- Clip Trimming & Reordering: Finally, users can cut, trim, and reorder clips within the app itself; no more jumping to external editors for basic sequencing. You will also now have the ability to add multiple clips directly in one timeline
- Text & Sticker Timing: You can now precisely control when text and stickers appear and disappear during a reel.
- Voiceovers & Sound Effects: A full voiceover tool is now integrated, with a growing library of SFX.
- New Filters, Effects, & Transitions: More cinematic filters, updated effects, and smooth transitions have been added to help Reels stand out.
In short, it feels like Instagram is trying to keep creators inside the app; no need to prep your video elsewhere and upload it later. Instagram also teased that AI-powered effects and auto-captioning features are rolling out in the next few weeks. With Reels becoming the centerpiece of content creation, Instagram has clearly taken notes from popular video editing apps. But the real question is this; how does it compare to CapCut?
Let’s break it down.
Ease of use & workflow
Instagram Edits: Instagram’s editor is clean, user-friendly, and fast. If you’re creating content directly for IG and don’t want to juggle apps, this is a game-changer.
CapCut: Slightly steeper learning curve, but once you’re familiar, it’s incredibly efficient. Perfect for batch editing, longer form content, or exporting for multiple platforms.
Beginners will more than likely love Instagram Edits, while Pro creators may still choose to keep CapCut in their toolkit.
Music & sound syncing
Instagram Edits: They’ve improved auto-sync to music, and you can now time clips to the beat better. Still, it’s limited to Instagram’s licensed tracks and doesn’t offer deep control.
CapCut: Advanced beat detection, sound wave visualization, and custom audio import make CapCut ideal for tight edits and rhythm-based content. Plus, you can use TikTok’s full sound library if you’re posting there too.
CapCut wins this one for audio control, but Instagram’s updates are still enough for simpler projects.
Filter, effects, & trends
Instagram Edits: IG’s filters are more subtle, polished, and tailored to its aesthetic. Their new effects and AR tools are cleaner but more limited. Great for minimalist creators.
CapCut: CapCut is a trend machine. It constantly updates with the latest viral templates, visual effects, and audio trends. Want your reel to look like that video you saw on TikTok two hours ago? CapCut probably has a template for it.
This is a battle of aesthetics. Instagram Edits = elegant and brand safe. CapCut = wild, viral, and unfiltered. Choose your vibe.
Video editing
Instagram Edits: Instagram now allows you to trim, split, reorder, and sync clips directly in the app. You can add music, apply filters, and use basic transitions, all in a much smoother interface than before. It’s a huge upgrade from the clunky tools of the past.
CapCut: CapCut is still in a league of its own when it comes to control. Think multi-layer timelines, keyframe animations, speed ramping, chroma key (green screen), motion tracking, auto captions, and trend templates. It’s essentially a mini–Premiere Pro on your phone.
Overall, Instagram Edits definitely steps up, but CapCut still reigns. Instagram is great for quick edits on the go, but if you’re trying to craft a cinematic reel or follow TikTok-style trends, CapCut is still your go-to.
Instagram’s vision is clear: keep creators editing in-app so they post more often and are able to do it faster.
Instagram’s new editing tools are a solid step forward.
They make the app way more creator-friendly and could reduce friction for quick content creation. But unless Instagram adds advanced layers, green screen, and deeper customization, CapCut will continue to be the editor of choice for many pros and influencers. So which one should you use?
- If you’re a casual creator who wants to post directly to Instagram without fuss, the new in-app editor is a big win. It keeps things quick, clean, and simple, perfect for everyday Reels or Stories.
- If you’re a content creator, influencer, or business, CapCut still has the upper hand. The depth of control, creative freedom, and trend-aligned features make it ideal for producing polished, viral-ready content.
Instagram’s editing upgrades are a welcome move.
Especially for creators who want fewer steps between idea and upload. For casual users or quick content, the new Instagram Edits tool is a huge win. You can now shoot, edit, and publish a polished reel without leaving Instagram. But for creators who value customization, detailed edits, or trending templates, CapCut isn’t going anywhere just yet. If you’re chasing high production value or looking to stay ahead of trends, CapCut still rules the short-form game.
Best of both worlds? Edit in CapCut, then use Instagram’s tools for final polish and native optimization. Boom — content magic!
