Arrange your TikTok subtitles in just 4 steps
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Arrange your TikTok subtitles in just 4 steps

Last modified on 26 June 2024.

Want to upload a new TikTok video and increase your reach by adding subtitles? But can’t seem to get this done? Then this article is just what you need! Because we will tell you step by step how to add subtitles to your TikTok videos.

In this article, we explain step by step how to add subtitles to your TikTok videos. It’s easier than you think, and it opens the doors to a wider range of people who can appreciate your videos. We’ll also give you helpful tips for making sure your videos are properly subtitled.

In this article

How do I add subtitles to my TikTok video?

On TikTok, it is not possible to upload a separate SRT file like on some other social media platforms, such as LinkedIn or with subtitles on Facebook. But don’t worry, on TikTok you post videos that already incorporate the text of your subtitles.

Don’t have a video with subtitles yet? Don’t panic. With Triple8, you can add subtitles to your video within 5 minutes.

Adding subtitles to your video is done in four steps

Here are the four steps to adding subtitles:

  1. Upload your video in the Triple8 editor: Begin by uploading your video to the Triple8 editor.
  2. Edit the subtitles as needed: Adjust the subtitles as needed. You can easily correct the text with the user-friendly editor.
  3. Download the video: Once you are satisfied with the subtitles, download the video to your device.
  4. Post your subtitled video on TikTok: Now you can upload the subtitled video to your TikTok account and clearly communicate your message to a wider audience.

Automatic subtitles in TikTok

TikTok added a new feature in late 2022 that allows users to automatically subtitle spoken text in their videos. While recording a video, you can easily enable the “auto captions” button. This causes the app to automatically generate subtitles to be displayed over your video. Should you notice a mistake, you can adjust it later in the editor function.

The disadvantages of TikTok automatic subtitling

Auto captioning on TikTok has some drawbacks. To take advantage of this feature, you must create your TikTok video within the app and enable the “auto captions” before you start filming. In addition, it is not possible to download the .srt file of your created subtitles.

TikTok subtitling videos with Triple8

Triple8 is an online tool that lets you add subtitles to your videos. The tool has a number of advantages over TikTok’s automatic subtitling:

  • Machine learning benefits
    Triple8 uses machine learning in its “speech to text engine,” which learns from the texts it extracts from audio and the adjustments users make. This makes the engine increasingly accurate and faster.
  • Downloadable .srt file
    Unlike TikTok, Triple8 offers the ability to download the .srt file of your subtitles. This is useful for further editing or use on other platforms.
  • Contextual subtitling
    A key advantage of Triple8 is contextual subtitling. Here, the program understands not only word for word, but also the context of the spoken text. This ensures more accurate and more appropriate subtitles for your videos.

Want to translate your subtitles into a foreign language? Then be sure to choose our human subscription, which combines our technology with professional native speakers. Within one day, your video will be translated 100% accurately.

Tips for editing subtitles on TikTok

The tips below will not only make your videos accessible, but also attract the attention of your audience on TikTok. It is not necessary to use all the tips; just select what best suits your content and make it unique.

  • Short and sweet: keep subtitles short and to the point. TikTok videos are fast-paced, so make your text readable and understandable quickly.
  • High-contrast text: make sure the subtitles are clearly legible on the video. Use high-contrast colours that stand out against the background.
  • Play with style: spice up subtitles by playing with different fonts and styles. TikTok is creative, so show this in your subtitles as well.
  • Timing is everything: match the timing of your subtitles to the speed of your video. Fast transitions? Get fast subtitles.
  • Use Emojis: add emojis to emphasize emotions, but don’t overdo it. Keep it subtle and appropriate to the mood of your video.
  • Moving text: experiment with moving text if it suits the style of your video. Moving subtitles can attract attention.
  • Test on sound off: check if your subtitles are understandable without sound. Many TikTok users watch videos in public places without sound.
  • Storytelling in subtitles: use subtitles not only for spoken text, but also to tell a story. Make it engaging for viewers.

More tips for subtitling videos?

Want to know how to add subtitles on other social media channels? Then read our blogs on how to do this, for example subtitles on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. Do you use a video editing program? Read our helpful blogs on Premiere Pro and iMovie. That way, you can start adding subtitles with confidence!