Editly vs CapCut vs Descript: Which AI Video Editor is Right for You?
Choosing the right video editor can make or break your content workflow. Three names keep coming up in conversations about modern, AI-powered editing: Editly, CapCut, and Descript. Each has its strengths, and the right choice depends on how you work.
This guide compares all three to help you decide which fits your needs.
Editly: Prompt-Based AI Editing
Editly represents a new approach: describe what you want in plain English, and AI handles the technical execution.
Best For
- Creators who want speed over granular control
- People who hate timeline-based editing
- Quick social media content
- Non-technical users who find traditional editors overwhelming
Standout Features
- Natural language prompts ("add captions with modern font")
- No timeline - conversation-based workflow
- AI understands creative intent
- Fast iteration on edits
Limitations
- Less granular control than traditional timelines
- Newer platform, evolving feature set
CapCut: Timeline Meets Trends
CapCut combines traditional timeline editing with trend-friendly templates and effects, designed with TikTok creators in mind.
Best For
- TikTok and social media creators
- Users who want templates and effects
- Mobile-first editing
- Beginners comfortable with timeline basics
Standout Features
- Huge library of trendy templates and effects
- Auto-captions with styles
- Free tier with extensive features
- Excellent mobile app
- TikTok integration
Limitations
- Owned by ByteDance (same concerns as TikTok)
- Watermarks on free tier exports
- Can feel cluttered with options
Descript: Text-Based Editing
Descript's breakthrough idea: edit video like you edit a document. Delete words from the transcript, and the video cuts match.
Best For
- Podcasters and talking-head content
- Interview-style videos
- Writers who think in words, not visuals
- Teams needing collaboration features
Standout Features
- Edit video by editing transcript
- Overdub (AI voice cloning for corrections)
- Filler word removal
- Screen recording built in
- Excellent for podcast workflow
Limitations
- Less intuitive for visual-heavy content
- Can feel awkward for non-speech videos
- Higher price point
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Editly | CapCut | Descript |
|---|---|---|---|
| Editing Style | Prompt-based | Timeline | Transcript |
| Learning Curve | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Best For | Speed | TikTok/Social | Podcasts |
| Auto-Captions | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes | Limited |
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Editly if - You want the fastest path from raw video to finished content, and you prefer describing edits over manipulating timelines.
- Choose CapCut if - You're creating TikTok/Reels content and want access to trendy templates and effects with a familiar timeline interface.
- Choose Descript if - You create speech-heavy content like podcasts or interviews and love the idea of editing by editing text.
The Future is AI-Assisted
All three editors represent the shift toward AI-assisted editing. The best choice depends on your content type and preferred workflow. Try all three - most have free tiers - and see which clicks with how you think.
Editly offers a free tier to experiment with prompt-based editing. Upload a video and see if the conversational approach fits your style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple editors for different tasks?
Absolutely. Many creators use different tools for different content. You might use Editly for quick social clips, CapCut for trend-based TikToks, and Descript for podcast episodes. There's no rule saying you have to commit to one.
Is Editly really easier than timeline editors?
For many users, yes. If you find yourself frustrated by traditional editing software, prompt-based editing can feel liberating. Instead of hunting for the right tool or effect, you just describe what you want.
Which has the best auto-captions?
All three have capable auto-captioning. The differences are mainly in styling options and how captions integrate with the overall editing workflow. Try each and see which caption style you prefer.
