Free caption tool

Create editable SRT, VTT, and transcripts instantly

Upload one video, auto-generate a speaker-aware transcript, correct text and timestamps in the on-page editor, then download export-ready caption files for social platforms and editors — no manual timing work.

Try the free caption generator How it works

Save editing time — publish faster

Why creators and teams use this tool

This free generator is built for creators, editors, accessibility teams and product marketing. It removes manual caption timing and gives you editable files that import cleanly into editors and publishing platforms.

Reduce manual captioning by generating a timed transcript automatically
Edit text, group speakers, and include non-speech audio descriptions before export
Export files compatible with YouTube Studio, Premiere Pro, Final Cut, WordPress and short-form platforms

Practical controls for real workflows

Core features

The editor focuses on the steps teams need: accurate automatic timings, easy corrections, and export options tuned for platform requirements.

On-page caption editor

Make inline text edits, change timestamps, reorder segments, and insert speaker labels or sound cues (e.g., [laughter], [applause]).

Adjust start/end times directly or nudge by milliseconds
Split or merge segments to control readability
Apply line-length and max characters-per-line settings

Export formats

Download ready-to-upload SRT, VTT, or plain transcripts with platform-friendly formatting.

SRT for traditional video editors and YouTube uploads
VTT for web captions and CMS caption fields
TXT for SEO-friendly transcripts or CMS copy

Localization and language tools

Automatic language detection plus optional translation suggestions so you can create localized subtitle files alongside the original transcript.

Preserve timestamps when producing translated subtitle files
Adapt idioms and regional variants on request

Works with common video files and hosting workflows

Supported sources and outputs

Upload MP4, MOV, WEBM or use recordings exported from Zoom, Vimeo, or other hosts. Exports are designed to import into editors and publishing platforms.

Input: MP4, MOV, WEBM and common single-video files
Output: SRT, VTT, TXT (plain transcript)
Integrates with publishing workflows for YouTube, TikTok/Reels, Vimeo, Premiere Pro, Final Cut and CMS caption fields

Clipboard-ready prompts for tailored captions

Prompt templates and examples you can paste

Use these prompt templates in the editor to produce captions formatted to your needs. Each prompt focuses on concrete constraints such as line length, speaker labels, or timing adjustments.

Instagram Reel — short, punchy SRT

Break lines at 32 characters and keep verbs active.

Prompt: Generate concise captions for a 60-second Reel: break lines at 32 characters, remove filler words, keep verbs active, output SRT with 2s minimum display time.

Interview — speaker-labeled VTT

Label speakers and include sound cues for accessibility.

Prompt: Create speaker-labeled captions for a 45-minute interview. Label speakers as Host and Guest, add sound cues (e.g., [applause], [laughter]), and output VTT with full timestamps.

Localize subtitles — neutral Spanish

Translate while preserving timestamps and context.

Prompt: Translate English transcript to neutral Spanish for Latin American audiences, preserve timestamps and adapt idioms; output VTT and SRT.

Timing refinement

Shift or enforce minimum display times before export.

Prompt: Shift timestamps by +1.2s, enforce max 2-line captions, and set 1s minimum display time for each caption.

Editor-to-NLE workflow

Export captions importable into Premiere or Final Cut.

Prompt: Convert transcript to SRT with 2s minimum durations, compress long pauses, ensure no line exceeds 42 characters for NLE import.

From recording to upload

How it fits your publishing workflow

The generator is designed to slot into existing workflows: produce a clean transcript, refine in the editor, then export the format your platform or editor expects.

YouTube: export SRT and import into YouTube Studio caption tools
TikTok/Instagram: use line-length controls and short caption styling for burned or upload captions
Post-production: export SRT/VTT importable into Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro
CMS: copy plain transcript into WordPress or headless CMS caption fields

Optimize audio — improve results

Best practices to improve auto-caption quality

Follow these practical tips when recording or preparing files to increase transcription accuracy and reduce editing time.

Use a directional mic and reduce background noise when possible
Avoid overlapping speech in interviews; record separate channels if you plan to assign speaker labels
Normalize audio levels before upload and remove long silent sections when possible
Provide short scene notes in the editor for non-speech audio (e.g., [door close], [music swell])

Control over your uploads

Privacy and file handling

Files uploaded to the free generator are processed to produce captions and transcripts. You can delete generated files from the session and choose options for retention where available.

Uploads are used only to generate the requested transcript and caption files
You can remove generated files after download from the session UI
For team or enterprise workflows with longer retention needs, see account options on /pricing

FAQ

Which file types can I upload and which caption formats can I download?

Upload common single-video files such as MP4, MOV, and WEBM. You can download SRT, VTT, or a plain TXT transcript. Exports are formatted for editor import and platform upload.

How accurate are the auto-generated captions and how do I correct mistakes?

Accuracy depends on audio quality and speaker clarity. Use the on-page editor to correct text, adjust timestamps, add speaker labels and non-speech cues before exporting.

Can the tool add speaker labels and sound descriptions for accessibility?

Yes — use the editor to label speakers manually or apply speaker-aware grouping. You can also insert sound descriptions like [laughter] or [applause] to meet accessibility needs.

Does the caption generator support multiple languages and translations?

The generator detects the source language and offers translation suggestions. You can produce translated subtitle files that preserve timestamps and adapt phrasing for target regions.

How do I export captions for YouTube, TikTok, or a video editor?

Choose SRT for YouTube and most editors, VTT for web captions, or TXT for transcripts. Use line-length and timestamp controls in the editor to meet platform or NLE import requirements.

Are my uploads stored, how long are they kept, and what are the privacy options?

Uploaded files are processed to generate captions and transcripts. You can delete outputs from the session. For extended storage or team policies, review options on /pricing or contact support.

Is there a limit to video length or file size for the free generator?

The free generator is optimized for single-video uploads. If a file exceeds limits you will be notified in the upload flow and offered guidance or upgrade options on /pricing.

What are best practices to improve auto-caption quality?

Record with a clear mic, minimize background noise, avoid overlapping speech, normalize volume levels, and trim long silent sections before upload to reduce transcription errors.

Can I edit timestamps and line breaks directly before exporting?

Yes — the on-page editor lets you adjust start/end times, split or merge segments, and enforce line-length or display-time rules before you export SRT, VTT, or TXT.

Compare captioning optionsSee how the free generator compares to paid workflow and team features.
Pricing & plansUpgrade paths for longer uploads, team storage, and enterprise controls.
About TextaLearn more about Texta's approach to AI visibility and editorial workflows.
Tips for creatorsPractical articles on captioning, SEO-friendly transcripts, and publishing workflows.