Honest takes on what is worth your money.
On Instagram, the first three seconds of a Reel decide whether the algorithm distributes or buries it, which makes the intro the whole game. We tested 8 popular video intro tools for Reels in 2026, from CapCut and Canva through template platforms like AutoAE up to After Effects, with honest pros, cons, and real pricing for each. The verdict is organized by workflow: what to use when you post daily, weekly, or only around launches.
