A subtitle editor is a type of computer software that lets users create and edit subtitles. These subtitles are superimposed over, and synchronized with, video. Subtitles can literally make the difference between being immersed in a movie or only watching the screen, trying to keep up with developments. Good subtitling does not distract but actually enhances viewing pleasure, and even native speakers can find subtitles useful, not only where the individual is hearing-impaired.

A subtitle is a text representation of the dialog, narration, music, or sound effects in a video file. Subtitles are available in multiple formats.

Mangled subtitles can anger viewers. Fortunately, there is a good range of open source software that lets you make subtitles with Linux. These editors help you preview how the subtitles appear on the video, and listen to the dialog. Additionally, they offer the ability to make entering and editing text easy, with good control over text formatting and positioning.

The software featured in this article also offer an easy way to perform a number of different editing jobs, besides adding and removing subtitles. They each boast a good feature set, and are all released under an open source license.

Subtitle Editors Aegisub Fully fledged, highly customizable tool for creating and modifying subtitles Jubler Author new subtitles and a tool to convert, transform, correct and refine existing subtitles Gaupol Editor for text-based subtitle files Subtitle Editor GTK+2 tool to edit subtitles Subtitle Composer Text-based subtitle editor that supports basic operations as well as more advanced ones

Return to our complete collection of recommended free and open source software including our latest additions.

Related articles