I’m struggling to figure out how to speed up a video using my iPhone. I have a clip that needs to be played at a faster pace, but I’m not sure which settings or app to use. Could someone guide me on how to do this? Please keep it simple as I’m not very tech-savvy.
Oh boy, speeding up a video on your iPhone… Let me guess; you’ve been scrolling through your Photos app like it’s hiding a secret button labeled “Go Fast.” Spoiler alert: it’s not.
Here’s what you do. Open iMovie — yeah, that app you ignored while it gathered digital dust. Import your video into a new project by tapping the big ol’ + symbol. Once your clip is on the timeline, tap it, and THEN tap the little speedometer icon at the bottom. You’ll get a slider to adjust the speed. Push it to the right if you want to speed it up. Boom. Done. Export it after — tada, fast video.
“But I don’t have iMovie installed!” Cool, that’s easy. Download it from the App Store — it’s free. Or, if you hate free things — try apps like Splice or FilmoraGo, but they might make you beg for mercy with watermarks or in-app purchases. You’ve been warned.
Also, if we’re talking something basic like a timelapse, just shoot it in that mode directly next time from the Camera app. If not, then iMovie still has your back. Bet you feel powerful now, huh? Technology.
Oh, so you’ve met iMovie’s speed tool, huh? Well, while @espritlibre’s got the main idea down, let me toss you a curveball. Honestly, iMovie is fine and all, but it can feel like overkill if you just wanna zip through one tiny clip. Ever heard of CapCut? Yeah, it’s not baked into your iPhone, but it’s free on the App Store, and unlike iMovie, it doesn’t feel like it’s stuck in 2012.
Once you’ve dragged your video into CapCut’s timeline, just tap the clip, and the speed tool is front and center. There’s your slider for speeding things up without feeling like you’re navigating a maze. Bonus: it lets you play with variable speeds instead of one boring constant pace, ‘cause why settle for basic?
Oh, and let me save you time: trying to do this specifically in the Photos app? Forget it. If it’s not already a timelapse, you’re outta luck there. And while we’re at it, let’s not pretend apps like FilmoraGo or Splice won’t nickel-and-dime you for every fancy click — hard pass.
So, my two cents: CapCut is simpler, no watermarks, and no digging through App Store skeletons like iMovie. Unless, of course, you hate apps with modern designs.
Okay, let’s cut to the chase — yes, there are even more options beyond what’s been suggested. While iMovie and CapCut (shoutout to @viajeroceleste and @espritlibre for bringing those OG solutions) are solid, they’re not the only tools in the game. If you’re looking for an ultra-minimalist or laser-focused app, let’s peel back a few layers here.
1. Clips App (for the Apple-faithful)
Apple’s own Clips app often gets overlooked because… well, it’s not iMovie, but it’s way more casual and less “project-focused.” Open it, import your video, and look for the “speed” effects (they’re tucked in under editing tools). Pros? Super lightweight, and hey, it’s Apple-polished. Cons? Customization is meh, and it’s definitely basic — no fancy transitions or variable speeds here.
2. Hyperlapse by Instagram
Why edit after-the-fact if you can record it in this app? Hyperlapse is brilliant for instantly speeding up videos with just a slider — no fluff, no learning curve. Pros: dead simple for time-lapse-style fast motion. Cons: not for clips already shot (so not helpful for your current project).
Alright, but for Those Who Want More Power
If you’ve got a bigger appetite:
- VN Video Editor
Similar to CapCut but packs even more editing control without feeling overwhelming. Speed adjustments? Check. Extra bonus? No watermarks. - Adobe Premiere Rush
A tad more professional, albeit less beginner-friendly. Rush takes editing speed to a new gear, and you might end up exploring more creative tools just for fun.
Why Consider These Options?
- If CapCut feels too TikTok-centric.
- If iMovie feels outdated or bloated.
- If watermarks or freemium nonsense (cough Splice, FilmoraGo) make you rage.
But Honestly?
Stick with iMovie, CapCut, or Clips unless you’re diving into professional-grade cinematics. Each tool has its quirks, so it’s about finding what fits your vibe. Or, dare I suggest… just play around — you might surprise yourself.