CaptionLayer guide

How to add captions to a video online

CaptionLayer generates subtitles from speech and exports a video with captions permanently visible. You can also download separate SRT, VTT and ASS subtitle files. It runs in your browser and uses a prepaid minute balance.

What you need

Choose an MP4, MOV or WEBM video with an audio track, up to 500 MB and 30 minutes. Clear speech makes the transcript easier to review. CaptionLayer is designed for short clips, including TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts; you upload the source video rather than a social media link.

From upload to captioned MP4

1. Sign in and choose your video. Open the studio and select a file from your device. New accounts receive 3 free minutes without adding a card.
2. Check the duration and balance. The studio estimates the deduction before you generate. A 2:06 clip uses 2:06 of balance; fractional seconds round up to the next whole second. If your balance is short, you can top up inside the studio.
3. Choose the caption style. Use the preview to adjust the look, position and size of your captions. Check that the placement leaves room for the interface of the platform where you will post.
4. Generate and review. Start processing, then review the rendered result. Speech recognition can get names, jargon and punctuation wrong. Open Edit captions on that specific render to correct the transcript and generate a revised video.
5. Download the result. Save the captioned MP4 for posting. Use SRT or VTT when a platform or player accepts a separate subtitle track; ASS preserves more styling information for compatible tools.

What does it cost?

Top-ups cost $5 for 20 minutes, $15 for 100 minutes or $29 for 250 minutes. There is no subscription, and purchased minutes are valid for 12 months. All packs include the same caption styles and export formats. The first two re-renders of a clip are free; later re-renders use its duration again. Failed renders are not charged.

Review the current pricing before purchasing. Checkout shows the final total, including any applicable taxes.

Which subtitle format should I use?

Choose the captioned MP4 when the words must stay visible wherever the video plays. Choose a separate subtitle file when viewers need to turn captions on and off. Keep both if you plan to publish the same video on several platforms. Our SRT and burned-in caption comparison explains the trade-offs.

Can I use it on my phone?

Yes. Open the studio in your mobile browser and choose a video from your device. The Install app button helps you add CaptionLayer to your home screen. Uploading, transcription and rendering require an internet connection.