Starts atFree
- Free option listed
- Watermark not statedThe provider does not say
Head-to-head
YouTube Create vs iMovie: which free editor is better for Shorts?
At a glance
Starts atFree
- Free plan
- Watermark not statedThe provider does not say
Both are free. YouTube Create is made for YouTube: it uploads Shorts directly and includes licensed music. iMovie is Apple's editor for iPhone, iPad and Mac, with no Android version. For Shorts on a phone, YouTube Create is built for the job.
Quick verdict
- Choose YouTube Create if you post to YouTube Shorts and want music that is cleared.
- Choose iMovie if you edit on a Mac or iPad, or post to several platforms.
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | YouTube Create | iMovie |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Devices | Android with 4GB+ RAM, iPhone XR+ on iOS 17+ | iPhone, iPad, Mac |
| Upload | Direct to YouTube, Shorts and long videos | Export to device |
| Music | Shorts Audio Library. Removed from exports over 15 seconds; direct upload allows up to 60 seconds | Not reached on Apple's support page (Oct 2026) |
| Export | Up to 1080p (ShortStack data) | Not reached (Oct 2026) |
| Best for | YouTube Shorts on a phone | Apple users, any platform |
For Shorts, TikTok and Reels
The music rule matters. If you export a YouTube Create video longer than 15 seconds to post on TikTok, its Shorts library music is removed. For TikTok and Reels, iMovie or another editor is cleaner. For YouTube only, YouTube Create keeps music on clips up to 60 seconds when you upload direct.
How to choose
- YouTube only: YouTube Create.
- Android user: YouTube Create.
- Mac or iPad editing: iMovie.
- Cross-posting to TikTok: iMovie.
Questions people search
Is YouTube Create free?
Yes, free on Android and iPhone XR or newer.
Is YouTube Create on iPhone?
Yes. It needs iPhone XR or newer running iOS 17 or later.
Can you use iMovie for YouTube Shorts?
It works. Export from iMovie and upload in the YouTube app.
Related: phone video editing.
Sources: support.google.com/youtube/answer/13521602, support.apple.com/imovie. Apple's iMovie page did not list prices or export specs, so iMovie details come from ShortStack's tool data. Checked on 16 October 2026. Based on published plans and terms, not a hands-on test.