Best AI Tools for YouTube Shorts

Create vertical short-form videos optimized for YouTube Shorts. These videos need to be engaging within the first 2 seconds and work well without sound initially.

Quick answer

Top picks: Kling AI, Runway, Pika

Requirements for YouTube Shorts

Max Duration

60s

Aspect Ratio

9:16

Audio

Required

Commercial Use

Required

Recommended tools

Kling AI

Top Pick

Kuaishou's current video model for realistic short-form clips

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Starting at FreeRating: 88/100Workflow fit: 87/100

Strong current-model quality for realistic clipsNative audio generationCompetitive credit pricing

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Runway

AI creative suite for professional video generation

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Starting at FreeRating: 89/100Workflow fit: 87/100

Industry-leading motion control and consistencyProfessional-grade output quality for short cinematic shotsComprehensive creative toolkit with motion brush

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Pika

Idea-to-video AI for creative content

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Starting at FreeRating: 82/100Workflow fit: 83/100

Very beginner-friendly interfaceFast generation timesGreat for stylized and creative content

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Tips for YouTube Shorts

Use vertical aspect ratio (9:16) for optimal display
Keep videos under 60 seconds
Front-load the hook in the first 2 seconds
Add captions since many watch without sound
Use trending audio or music when possible

Example prompts

A satisfying video of paint mixing in slow motion, vertical format, vibrant colors
Time-lapse of a city skyline transitioning from day to night, vertical composition
Cinematic shot of coffee being poured into a cup, extreme close-up, vertical