How to add subtitles to video: 4 ways

Subtitles are no longer optional: most people watch short videos without sound. Here is how to add subtitles to a video — from the fast automatic way to manual.

Way 1. Automatic — AI transcribes speech

Upload a video, AI transcribes speech and places subtitles by timecode. You just check the text and pick a style. Minutes instead of an hour of typing.

• Pros: fast, no manual typing, timecodes set automatically.
• Cons: transcription isn't perfect — check names, terms, quiet speech.

Way 2. Manually in a video editor

In desktop editors (CapCut, DaVinci, Premiere) you add text layers and time them yourself. Full control, but slow.

Way 3. Online services

Browser-based tools, no install. They usually combine auto-transcription and a style editor. Some have payment issues from Russia.

Way 4. Platform auto-captions

YouTube and some apps auto-generate captions, but they are not burned into the video — viewers can turn them off, and they only show on that platform. For reels and shorts you want burned-in subtitles.

Make captions readable

• Big, 1–3 words on screen.
• Contrast: light text with an outline or background.
• Active-word highlight (karaoke) holds attention.
• Keep them centered, not at the very bottom.
• A font that supports your language.

The fast path

For regular work without hassle, use the automatic way. In Kadrio, AI transcribes speech and adds dynamic subtitles, and you finish in the editor. Do subtitles only or cut long video into clips with subtitles on each.