How to Add Subtitles in HandBrake

Daniel Chang

Posted in Zoom Sep 5 · 7 Sep, 2022

How to Add Subtitles in HandBrake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding subtitles to your videos ensures your message reaches everyone, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Subtitles also help viewers who speak different languages understand your content. HandBrake is a free, open-source video transcoder you can use to add subtitles and captions easily. This guide will show you how to add subtitles in HandBrake, making your videos clear and accessible for all.

Why Add Subtitles to Your Videos?

Subtitles make videos accessible to a larger audience, including non-native speakers and people with hearing loss.
Videos with subtitles hold viewer attention longer (3Play Media, 2022).
Subtitled content is preferred on social media, with 80% of viewers more likely to watch a video to the end (Verizon Media, 2019).
Subtitles can improve video SEO, helping your content rank higher in search results.

What Is HandBrake?

HandBrake is a free, open-source video transcoder that works with Windows, Mac, and Linux. It can convert videos between formats and lets you add subtitle tracks to your videos quickly. You can learn more about HandBrake from this list of open-source video transcoders.

How to Add Subtitles in HandBrake: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to add subtitles to your videos using HandBrake:

Step 1: Prepare Your Video File

Export your finished video from your editing software (like Filmora, Adobe Premiere, or iMovie).
Make sure the video is high quality, as HandBrake works best with clear source files.

Step 2: Get Your Subtitles File (SRT)

Download or create a subtitles file, usually in .SRT format (SubRip Subtitle File).
The SRT file should match your video's spoken content, with accurate timing codes.
Consider using a professional closed caption services provider for accurate, ready-to-use caption files.

Step 3: Download and Install HandBrake

If you do not have HandBrake, download it from the official website and install it on your computer.

Step 4: Open Your Video in HandBrake

Launch HandBrake and click "Open Source" to upload your video file.

Step 5: Add Your SRT Subtitle Track

Go to the "Subtitles" tab in HandBrake.
Click on "Add External Subtitle Track."
Find and select your SRT file, then click "Open."
You can add multiple subtitle tracks in different languages if needed.

Step 6: Choose Subtitle Type (Open or Closed Captions)

Decide if you want to "burn in" (hardcode) the subtitles or keep them as a selectable track.
If you check the "Burned In" box, subtitles will display permanently on your video (closed captions).
If you leave it unchecked, subtitles can be toggled on or off in most media players (open captions).

Step 7: Review Settings

Check that your output video settings are correct (quality, format, and resolution match your needs).
Optional: Save your profile for future projects.

Step 8: Export Your Captioned Video

Click "Browse" to set the destination folder and filename for your exported video.
Click the green "Start Encode" button at the top to export your video with subtitles.

Step 9: Check Your Exported Video

Play your new video in any media player, like QuickTime, Windows Media Player, iTunes, or VLC.
If using open captions, find the subtitle options in the player to enable or disable subtitle tracks as needed.
If you burned-in your captions, the subtitles will appear automatically.

Tips for Better Subtitles in HandBrake

Always double-check timing and spelling in your SRT file before adding it to your video.
For videos in more than one language, add multiple subtitle tracks for broader reach.
If you want accurate and fast subtitle files, consider professional subtitling services from trusted providers.