Generate Subtitles from Audio or Video: Create SRT & WebVTT in Minutes
Step-by-step guide to create SRT and WebVTT subtitles from audio/video. Learn timing, formatting, and how to add captions to YouTube, Vimeo, and social.
Need captions fast? This guide shows you how to turn your audio or video into SRT and WebVTT subtitle files in minutes—perfect for YouTube, Vimeo, social clips, and accessibility compliance.
SRT vs. WebVTT: What’s the Difference?
SRT (SubRip)
Simple, widely supported (YouTube, LinkedIn, X). Uses numbered cues, start/end times, and text.
WebVTT
Modern format for the web. Supports styling, positioning, and metadata; ideal for HTML5 players.
Create SRT/WebVTT in 4 Steps
- Upload your file (MP3, WAV, M4A, MP4).
- Transcribe to text with timestamps and speaker labels.
- Quick edit names, punctuation, and line breaks.
- Export as SRT or VTT and upload to your platform.
How to Add Captions on Popular Platforms
YouTube
- Go to YouTube Studio → Content → select video → Subtitles.
- Click “Add” → “Upload file” → choose SRT.
- Set the language and save. YouTube auto-syncs timing if needed.
Vimeo
- Open your video → Distribution → Subtitles.
- Upload .vtt for best results; pick the language and label.
HTML5 Players
Use <track kind="subtitles" src="captions.vtt" srclang="en"> with WebVTT.
Best Practices for Readable Captions
- Keep lines under 42 characters; use two lines max.
- Break at natural pauses; avoid splitting names and key phrases.
- Include speaker labels when speakers change frequently.
- Use sentence case and consistent punctuation.
FAQs
Can I export both SRT and VTT?
Yes—export either or both and upload wherever needed.
Does TranscribeFast support timestamps?
Yes, timestamps and speaker diarization are available for cleaner subtitles.
Is my media secure?
Your files are encrypted and automatically deleted after processing.