How to Create Subtitles for a Video in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Subtitles are no longer just an accessibility feature—they’re now a key driver of engagement, watch time, and global reach. Whether you’re a content creator, marketer, or educator, knowing how to create subtitles for a video in 2025 is an essential skill.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through different methods to generate subtitles—from manual typing to AI-powered tools—and help you choose the right approach based on your needs. Let’s dive in.

Why Subtitles Matter More Than Ever in 2025

Before learning how to create subtitles for a video, it’s worth understanding why subtitles are so crucial:

● Increased engagement: 85% of videos are watched without sound, especially on mobile platforms.

● Improved accessibility: Subtitles make content usable for Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences.

● Wider reach: They help localize content for global audiences through translation and transcription.

● Better SEO: Search engines can index subtitle text, boosting discoverability.

 

Method 1: Use AI-Powered Subtitle Generators (Fastest Way)

The fastest way to learn how to create subtitles for a video in 2025 is by using AI subtitle generators. These tools leverage speech recognition to transcribe, sync, and style your subtitles automatically—perfect for creators who want speed without sacrificing quality.

Here are three reliable options:

🔹 Vmake – Best for Branding and Multilingual Subtitles

Vmake is an AI-driven platform that auto-generates accurate subtitles with multiple language support. It also offers subtitle design templates, branding features, and burn-in export without watermark for registered users.

🔹 Submagic – Best for Social Video Creators

Tailored for TikTok, Instagram, and Reels, Submagic generates short-form captions with kinetic text effects and dynamic styling. Great for creators who want subtitles that match trending visual aesthetics.

🔹 Kapwing – Best for Collaborative Teams

Kapwing combines subtitle generation with a collaborative video editor. It’s ideal for teams working remotely or creators who want to edit and style their videos and subtitles in one place.

Pros:

● Extremely fast and beginner-friendly

● Supports various formats and languages

● Minimal editing required

Cons:

● Accuracy may vary depending on audio quality

● Advanced effects or exports may require a paid plan

How to Create Subtitles for a Video Using Vmake

Vmake makes it easy to create subtitles in just a few clicks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Open the Auto Generated Captions Page

Head to Auto Generated Captions tool and click “Use Now” to start.

Step 2: Upload Your Video

Click “Upload Video” and choose a file from your local device.

Step 3: Pick a Caption Style

Choose from a wide range of fonts, colors, animations, and subtitle styles.

Step 4: Edit the Text (If Needed)

Edit your text directly in the timeline: fix typos, adjust timings, or rewrite sections.

Step 5: Export and Share

Export your video in HD with no watermark, then upload it to your social media.

Method 2: Manually Create Subtitles (Best for Precision)

If accuracy and customization are your top priorities, creating subtitles manually is still a reliable method.

How to Create Subtitles for a Video Manually:

1.  Watch your video and break it into logical speech segments.

2.  Use a text editor (e.g., Notepad, TextEdit) or professional subtitle software (e.g., Aegisub).

3.  Type the transcript and match timecodes in this format:

00:00:01,000 –> 00:00:05,000

Hello, welcome to our video!

4.  Save the file as .srt or another supported format.

5.  Upload it to your video platform (e.g., YouTube or Vimeo).

Pros:

● Full control over accuracy and timing

● No reliance on third-party AI models

Cons:

● Time-consuming

● Steeper learning curve for beginners

Method 3: Add Subtitles via Video Editing Software

If you already use editing tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro, you can create subtitles directly inside your timeline.

Steps:

1.  Open your project and add a subtitle or caption layer.

2.  Manually type your text for each clip.

3.  Adjust duration and position for readability.

4.  Export with embedded subtitles or as a separate track.

Pros:

● Seamless integration into editing workflow

● Better control over visual style and placement

Cons:

● Learning curve for non-editors

● Requires licensed software

 

Bonus: How to Create Subtitles for a Video with Vmake

If you’re looking for a free and fast way to create subtitles for your videos, Vmake is an AI-powered video platform designed for creators.

Key Features:

● Auto speech recognition and subtitle sync

● Multiple subtitle templates and fonts

● Burn-in and SRT export options

● No watermark with registered export

● Supports over 30 languages

FAQs: How to Create Subtitles for a Video

1. What’s the difference between captions and subtitles?

Subtitles translate speech, while captions include all audio cues (e.g., [music], [laughter]) for accessibility.

2. Can I add subtitles to a YouTube video after uploading?

Yes, you can upload subtitle files (.srt) or use YouTube’s built-in subtitle editor anytime.

3. What’s the most beginner-friendly way to create subtitles for a video?

AI subtitle tools like Vmake offer the easiest start with minimal editing effort.

4. How do I export subtitles without burning them into the video?

Choose “soft subtitles” during export—formats like SRT or VTT are separate files from your video.

5. Is subtitle generation free?

Many tools offer free plans with limits. Some, like Vmake, support watermark-free exports when logged in.