CapCut
An app that edits short videos with templates, captions and effects.
What CapCut does
CapCut is a free video editor for iPhone and Android from ByteDance, the company behind TikTok. It packs templates, auto captions, background removal and keyframes into one app, and exports up to 4K at 60fps. In the US it is now run by the TikTok USDS joint venture.
CapCut is the editor a lot of short-form creators start with. You can trim and stack clips on a timeline, add text and stickers, pick a trending template, or let it write captions from your voice. It also does green screen, stabilization, background removal and text to speech, which is a lot for a free app.
The catch is that more of it now sits behind a paywall. Recent reviews say some templates and effects add a watermark or ask you to upgrade, and that the free plan is tighter than it used to be. Prices also vary by region, so check the plan screen before you commit.
On the US question: CapCut went dark briefly in January 2025 and came back in February. Since January 2026, the US version has been run by the TikTok USDS joint venture. If you mostly make TikToks and Reels, it's still one of the most capable free picks.
Alternatives to CapCut
Who it's for
Skip it if: Anyone who wants a fully free editor with no upsells.
Pricing
Free planCapCut is free to download and use. Paid plans (currently called Standard and Pro) add premium effects, AI tools and cloud storage. Sources list different US prices, so check the plan screen in the app.
Prices can vary by country. Checked 16 Oct 2026.
What people like
- Huge feature set for a free app
- Auto captions you can edit and style
- Trending templates make quick edits easy
- 4K 60fps export
Watch out for
- More effects and templates now need a paid plan
- Some free exports can carry a watermark
- Prices vary by region, and sources list different US prices
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Questions people ask
Is CapCut still available in the US?
Yes. It's on the US App Store and Google Play. Since January 2026 the US version has been run by the TikTok USDS joint venture.
Does CapCut add a watermark?
Reviewers say basic edits export without one, but some templates and premium effects add a watermark unless you pay.
Can CapCut export in 4K?
Yes, up to 4K at 60fps.
Does CapCut add captions automatically?
Yes. It turns speech in your video into captions you can edit and style.