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: Runway, Pika, Kling AI

Requirements for YouTube Shorts

Max Duration

60s

Aspect Ratio

9:16

Audio

Required

Commercial Use

Required

Recommended tools

Runway

Top Pick

AI creative suite for professional video generation

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Starting at FreeRating: 88/100Workflow fit: 85/100

Industry-leading motion control and consistencyProfessional-grade output quality up to 4KComprehensive 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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Kling AI

Long-form AI video generation up to 2 minutes

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Starting at FreeRating: 81/100Workflow fit: 81/100

Longest video duration (up to 2 minutes)Native audio generationCompetitive pricing

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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