Subtitle formats: what are they?
Subtitling formats are the various ways in which subtitles can be delivered and displayed on different devices and platforms. Some of the most common subtitling formats include:
SRT (SubRip Text): This is a widely-used, simple text-based format that is supported by most media players. SRT files contain basic information such as the start and end timecodes for each subtitle, as well as the text of the subtitle itself.
VTT (Web Video Text Tracks): This is a more recent format that is becoming increasingly popular for web-based video content. It is similar to SRT in that it is a text-based format, but it also supports additional formatting options such as text styling and positioning.
SUB/IDX: These are older formats that were primarily used for DVD and Blu-ray subtitles. They are not as widely supported as SRT or VTT, but they are still used in some legacy systems.
STL (Spruce Subtitle Format): This format is used mainly in professional subtitling workflows and broadcast. It is a richer format than SRT and VTT, it contains information about the layout and positioning of subtitles, which is necessary for broadcast subtitling.
ASS/SSA (Advanced SubStation Alpha/SubStation Alpha): These are text-based formats that are primarily used in anime and fansubbing communities. They support advanced styling options and are widely supported by media players and video editing software.
It’s important to note that not all devices and platforms support all subtitling formats, and the choice of format will depend on the specific needs of your project and the target devices and platforms.
There are various subtitling formats available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most widely supported formats are SRT and VTT, which are suitable for most web-based video content, while professional subtitling workflows may require richer formats like STL. It’s important to consider which format will best suit your needs and the target devices and platforms for your project.
TITLEBERRY provides comprehensive subtitling services, delivering all types of formats including SRT, VTT, SUB/IDX, STL, and ASS/SSA to ensure maximum compatibility and accessibility for your video content.