SRT vs VTT: Which Subtitle File Should You Export?
A creator-focused guide to SRT and VTT subtitle files, when to use each format, and why review should happen before export.
SRT and VTT are both subtitle files. They store caption text with timing, which is why many creators keep one next to the final video file. The practical question is not which format is better in every case. It is which one your publishing channel expects.
Use SRT for broad compatibility
SRT is the plain workhorse format. It is easy to read, easy to edit, and widely accepted by video platforms and editing tools. If a client asks for a subtitle file and gives no extra detail, SRT is often the first format to check.
Use VTT for web video tracks
VTT is common in web video workflows. It can carry timed text and is often used with HTML video players. If your team publishes video on a website or product page, VTT may fit better than a burned-in caption export.
Keep the caption text source editable
Do not treat SRT or VTT as the first draft. Generate or transcribe the captions, review the words and timing, then export the files. That order matters because a typo in the source track becomes a typo in every format you download from it.
When to export both
Export both when the same video will live in more than one place. A team might use SRT for a platform upload, VTT for a website, and a styled captioned video for social. Keeping the same reviewed caption text behind each output keeps the work consistent.
AutoCaption supports SRT and VTT exports from the caption workflow. Upload a clip in AutoCaption, review the timed text, and download the file your channel needs.