Short-form video isn’t slowing down in 2025. Whether it’s YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, or TikTok, creators need editing tools that balance speed with control. Three names stand out: Descript, CapCut, and Premiere Pro. Each offers a different workflow – from AI-powered quick edits to mobile-first simplicity to full professional control. Let’s see which one fits best for your Shorts strategy this year.
Key Takeaways
- Descript: Fastest workflow for auto-subtitles and AI editing.
- CapCut: Free, mobile-first, good for creators on a budget.
- Premiere Pro: Maximum control, steep learning curve, agency-grade.
- India context: CapCut free (no GST invoices), Descript and Premiere issue invoices but need card/UPI billing.
India Snapshot
- Descript:
- Pricing: ~$12/mo (~₹1,000).
- Payments: Cards; UPI via resellers.
- GST Invoice: Limited.
- Best For: Podcasters, Shorts editors who want speed.
- CapCut:
- Pricing: Free basic; Pro ~$7/mo (~₹600).
- Payments: UPI/Google Play billing.
- GST Invoice: No.
- Best For: Beginners, mobile-first creators.
- Premiere Pro (Adobe):
- Pricing: ~₹1,675/mo.
- Payments: UPI, Razorpay, Cards.
- GST Invoice: Yes.
- Best For: Agencies, pro editors who want deep control.
Descript vs CapCut vs Premiere: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Descript | CapCut | Premiere Pro |
India Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Subtitles | ✔ Best-in-class | ✔ Decent, mobile | ✘ Manual / plug-ins | Descript fastest |
| AI Editing | ✔ Overdub + filler removal | ✔ Basic AI effects | ✘ Minimal | CapCut fun, Descript pro |
| Ease of Use | Very simple | Beginner-friendly | Steep curve | CapCut easiest |
| Pro Controls | Limited | Medium | ✔ Full suite | Premiere best |
| Pricing | ~₹1,000/mo | Free–₹600/mo | ₹1,675/mo | CapCut cheapest |
When to Choose Descript
- You want quick Shorts edits with auto-subtitles.
- Podcast/video repurposing is your main workflow.
- You don’t need cinematic-level controls.
When to Choose CapCut
- You’re just starting out, on mobile.
- You want TikTok/Reels-style effects quickly.
- You don’t want to pay much upfront.
When to Choose Premiere Pro
- You’re running a video agency or YouTube channel with serious production needs.
- You want layered edits, cinematic cuts, color grading, motion graphics.
- You need clean GST invoices for business accounting.
Pros and Cons
Descript
Best AI editing speed
Easy interface
Not built for deep effects
CapCut
Free + fun
Mobile-friendly
Weak pro features
Premiere Pro
Industry standard
Full creative control
Expensive + heavy learning curve
Quick Checklist
- Fast AI editing → Descript.
- Free + mobile → CapCut.
- Full control for agencies → Premiere Pro.
For speed, Descript wins. For budget creators, CapCut is enough. For agencies needing full control, Premiere Pro remains the best choice in 2025.
