YouTube to MP4 with Subtitles. How to Download Videos with Captions

Want to download YouTube videos with subtitles embedded in the MP4 file? This guide covers all the methods for saving YouTube videos with captions — whether you need hardcoded subtitles burned into the video or separate subtitle files.

Understanding YouTube Subtitles

YouTube supports two types of subtitles: auto-generated captions (created by speech recognition) and manual captions (uploaded by the creator). When downloading to MP4, you have two options for keeping these subtitles.

Option 1: Hardcoded (Burned-In) Subtitles

Hardcoded subtitles are permanently embedded in the video. They appear on every device without needing subtitle support. The downside is you cannot turn them off.

Option 2: Separate Subtitle Files (SRT)

SRT subtitle files are separate text files that your video player loads alongside the MP4. You can toggle them on/off and even switch between languages. Most modern players (VLC, MPC-HC, IINA) support SRT files automatically.

How to Download YouTube Videos with Subtitles

Method 1: Download MP4 + Separate SRT File

1. Download the YouTube video as MP4 using our YouTube to MP4 converter.
2. Download the subtitle file from YouTube: go to the video, click the three dots menu (⋯), select “Open transcript,” and copy the text.
3. Save the text as a .srt file with the same filename as the MP4 (e.g., video.mp4 and video.srt).
4. Place both files in the same folder. Most video players will detect and display the subtitles automatically.

Method 2: Use a Desktop Tool for Hardcoded Subtitles

For hardcoded subtitles burned into the MP4, you need a desktop tool like HandBrake or FFmpeg. First download the MP4 and SRT file separately, then use the tool to merge them into a single video with permanent subtitles.

Tips for Working with Subtitles

• Language: YouTube offers auto-translation for subtitles. You can download captions in any available language.
• Accuracy: Auto-generated captions can contain errors. Manual captions from the creator are more accurate.
• File naming: For automatic subtitle detection, name the SRT file identically to the MP4 file.
• VLC Player: VLC is the best free player for subtitle support — it handles SRT, ASS, and SSA formats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I download YouTube auto-generated subtitles?

Yes. YouTube auto-captions are available for download on most videos. The accuracy varies depending on the audio quality and language.

Do subtitles work on iPhone and Android?

Yes, if you use a player that supports subtitle files. VLC (available for both iOS and Android) handles SRT files well. Place the .srt file in the same folder as the .mp4 file.

Can I get subtitles in a different language?

If the video has multi-language captions, you can download the translated version. YouTube also offers auto-translation for videos with auto-generated English captions.

Related Guides

• YouTube to MP4 HD 1080p — Download the highest quality video for subtitle embedding
• YouTube to MP4 on Mac — Use QuickTime and IINA for subtitle playback
• Download Long YouTube Videos — Handle lectures and movies with subtitles
• YouTube to MP4 Trim — Download only the section you need
• YouTube to MP4 No Watermark — Get clean original-quality video files