How to Turn On Captions on TikTok in 2025 (Step-by-Step Guide)

Scrolling TikTok but can’t listen to the audio? Maybe you’re in a quiet place. Or maybe the speaker is mumbling. Either way, captions help.

Here’s the good news: TikTok now supports auto-captions for the videos you watch — Not just the ones you upload. A few taps, and you can turn them back on.

This guide will teach you how to turn off caption of tiktok and what if the option was missing from your phone.

What Are TikTok Captions?

Captions are the text of what they say on screens in videos. Yes, you can turn this on and read these dynamo words while seeing them in action like captioning a movie.

TikTok’s caption feature is built-in. You might have easily missed it, but if you turn this feature on (trick activated!), then your feed will be much easier to follow:

● When you’re watching on mute

● When creators speak too fast

● When you’re in a noisy environment

● When the video is in another language (some captions get translated!)

On TikTok, captions can be turned on while watching, or added while posting. Both can help you understand content better — or make your own videos more viewer-friendly.

How to Turn On Captions on TikTok While Watching

Yes, you can read what others are saying — even if your sound is off.

Here’s how:

1.  Open TikTok.

2.  Scroll through videos as usual.

3.  See a “Captions” icon on the screen? Tap it.

4.  That turns captions on for that video and similar ones.

5.  Tap again to turn them off anytime.

⚠️ Not all videos have captions. The creator must enable them first.

How to Enable Captions in TikTok Settings

Can’t find the captions icon? Might be turned off in your settings.

Here’s how to switch it on:

1.  Open the TikTok app.

2.  Go to your Profile ( At the bottom-right ).

3.  Tap the “☰” menu ( At top-right corner ).

4.  Select Settings and privacy.

5.  Tap Display.

6.  Under Accessibility, toggle Captions ON.

That’s it. From this point on, your videos with open captions will display them by default.

Adding Captions to Your TikTok Video

Need help explaining your video to viewers? Add captions when you post. TikTok makes it simple.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Launch TikTok and tap the “+” button to record or upload a video.

2. Once you film or import the footages, enter into editing section.

3. Tap the icon “Captions” on right

4. TikTok will transcribe your voice and show you the text.

5. Click the pen icon to change words or correct any error

6. If finished, click “Save” and upload your video.

Tip: Avoid loud background sound. The clearer your voice, the better the captions.

Can’t See Captions? Here’s Why

Sometimes, captions don’t show up — even when they should. Here are some quick fixes:

● Update TikTok — older versions may not support the feature

● Switch language settings — some captions depend on app language

● Still in testing — TikTok rolls out features in stages

If nothing works, try adding captions before uploading — with an external tool like Vmake.

Want Custom Captions? Use Vmake

TikTok’s built-in captions are basic. Want something more stylish? Try Vmake’s Auto Caption Tool.

With Vmake, you can:

● Transcribe your audio with AI

● Choose font, style, size, and color

● Edit everything before export

● Download and post straight to TikTok

● No watermark. No hassle.

Here‘s How to Edit Captions with Vmake: 

Step 1: Open the Auto Generated Captions Page

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

Step 2: Upload Your Video

Then click on “Upload Video” and select the file from your computer.

Step 3: Pick a Caption Style

Pick any font, color and animation type or subtittle style you prefer.

Step 4: Edit the Text (If Needed)

Make edits in your text — correct typos, reword contents or change timings on the timeline

Step 5: Export

After everything is complete, export your HD project with no watermark into any social medias!

Final Take

Now you know how to turn on captions on TikTok — both as a viewer and a creator.

No matter you’re watching in silence or posting your next viral video, captions help you connect better. One tap, and you’re clearer, louder, and more accessible.

🎯 Don’t just post. Be understood.

👉 Try Vmake Auto Captions today — and level up your TikTok game.