Until now, I’ve primarily relied on Premiere Pro for video editing due to its comprehensive suite of features. I haven’t come across any AI tools or online software capable of efficiently handling complex video editing tasks in a short timeframe. While there are some AI tools that excel at minor edits like adding captions or trimming audio, they fall short when it comes to producing traditional Video Sales Letter (VSL) videos like the ones I usually create for my clients. (Example of a traditional VSL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ2Lc5oH1xA )
But this time, my goal was to find an AI tool capable of handling this type of VSL work. Typically, it takes a minimum of 1-2 days to create the above type of VSL videos using Premiere Pro. You have to copy and paste the entire script into Premiere Pro (although now you can also auto-generate subtitles on Premiere Pro, but that doesn’t give you 100% error-free captions), animate the captions, add illustrations, and animate them – a lot of work indeed. I was wondering if there was any AI tool on the internet that could automate this work. Not everything, but at least automate some steps. And finally, I discovered an awesome AI tool that does exactly what I was looking for!
Descript (https://www.descript.com/)
Descript is an AI-powered audio and video editing tool that enables users to edit audio and video content as effortlessly as editing text. It employs advanced algorithms to transcribe audio and video files into editable text, allowing users to edit the content by directly modifying the text.
Key Features that Make Descript a Powerful Video Editor:
1. It converts the entire script into video seamlessly, eliminating the need to copy each line individually.
2. It automatically generates captions from the script.
3. It automatically removes filler words (pauses, spaces, repeated words) from the audio.
4. It offers voice cloning, enabling users to generate their own voices.
5. It boasts a vast stock video library, allowing users to search for and directly incorporate videos into their VSLs.
6. Users can edit or modify the video by editing the script, eliminating the need to trim or cut the video. If any scene needs to be added or removed, simply edit the script, and the video will be automatically adjusted accordingly.
7. And the most powerful feature which I was looking for: It can auto-transcribe any video into text, facilitating easy video modification by editing the text. That means you only have to upload your audio or video file, and it will auto-generate subtitles (almost 98% error-free) for you. So, let’s say you want to create a traditional VSL video like the above example. You can just upload your audio, and it will auto-generate the subtitles in the blink of an eye! So all you need to do is add other elements such as graphics, illustrations, etc., and your VSL will be ready to go.
Conclusion:
Descript is undoubtedly the most powerful AI tool for video editing that I’ve encountered thus far. I’ve tested it, and it significantly saves time, making work progress five times faster. If we aim for rapid video production within tight timelines, I highly recommend using Descript.
Some Cons:
1. Being an online-based application, Descript lacks the option to download project files to a local computer, as easily done in Premiere Pro. Therefore, to access or modify projects later, users must maintain an active subscription, which involves monthly or yearly payments. However, this limitation applies not only to Descript but to any other online tool as well.
2. As an online tool, Descript’s performance is contingent on internet speed. Slow internet or server breakdowns can significantly impact work efficiency, particularly for longer videos lasting 10-15 minutes.
3. This AI tool is not capable to handle complex VSL work or any video editing where it needs lots of different types of transitions, more stylish and animated captions, complex animations etc. If you are looking for simple VSLs or basic caption video works, and want quick video production then this tool will be perfect for you.
Here you can check the video where I test the software and explain all the essential features of Descript: