How do I add captions to a YouTube Short?

Drop your Short into ReelCaption, fix any wrong words, and keep the captions clear of the buttons and title. Then export the MP4 and upload it as a Short.

Do burned-in captions show if the viewer has subtitles off?

Yes. They are part of the picture, so subtitle settings do not affect them.

Can I also get an .srt file?

Yes. Download an .srt or .vtt file alongside the MP4, and upload it in YouTube Studio under Subtitles.

Yes. Your first 2 clips, up to 60 seconds each, need no account. Sign in with Google for 5 free minutes a month, with no card. Pro is $5 a month for 100 minutes.

Captions for · YouTube Shorts

Add captions to YouTube Shorts

Shorts play one after another and viewers swipe on fast. Burned-in captions put your words on screen from the first frame. ReelCaption transcribes the Short, times every word, and exports an MP4 ready to upload.

Caption a video free

Step by step

1Drop the Short into ReelCaption. A vertical 9:16 video stays vertical.
2Fix any misheard words on the timeline. Split long captions so none runs past 2 lines.
3Pick a high-contrast preset. Shorts are watched on phones, so large outlined text reads best.
4Keep captions away from the right edge and the bottom, where YouTube shows the buttons, the title and your channel name.
5Export the MP4 and upload it as a Short from YouTube Studio or the YouTube app.

Tips for YouTube Shorts

YouTube can generate captions for Shorts, but viewers have to switch them on. Burned-in captions show for everyone.
Your hook is the first line people read. Check the first caption starts on the first word, and drag it earlier if it starts late.
You can also download the .srt and add it in YouTube Studio under Subtitles, so YouTube has your words as text.

Why ReelCaption

Word or pill highlight that follows the speaker word by word.
A timeline over the audio waveform, so you can line up the first caption with your hook.
An MP4 for the Short and an .srt for a longer YouTube version, from the same transcript.
2 clips free with no account, then 5 free minutes a month when you sign in with Google. No card.

FAQ

How do I add captions to a YouTube Short?: Drop your Short into ReelCaption, fix any wrong words, and keep the captions clear of the buttons and title. Then export the MP4 and upload it as a Short.
Do burned-in captions show if the viewer has subtitles off?: Yes. They are part of the picture, so subtitle settings do not affect them.
Can I also get an .srt file?: Yes. Download an .srt or .vtt file alongside the MP4, and upload it in YouTube Studio under Subtitles.
Is it free?: Yes. Your first 2 clips, up to 60 seconds each, need no account. Sign in with Google for 5 free minutes a month, with no card. Pro is $5 a month for 100 minutes.

Guides for other platforms

Caption your next clip in a couple of minutes.