SRT Format Guide - Complete Documentation
Comprehensive guide to the SRT (SubRip Subtitle) format - the universal standard for video subtitles across all platforms and players.
What is SRT Format?
SRT (SubRip Subtitle) is a text-based subtitle format that stores timed text for video content. Originally created by the SubRip software, SRT has become the most widely used subtitle format due to its simplicity and universal compatibility across video players, streaming platforms, and editing software.
The format consists of sequential numbered subtitle blocks, each containing precise timing information and the corresponding text to be displayed during video playback.
SRT Format Specification
Basic Structure
An SRT file consists of subtitle blocks, each containing four elements in sequence:
Subtitle Block Elements
1. Sequence Number
Sequential number starting from 1, identifying each subtitle block.
2. Timestamp
Start and end times in HH:MM:SS,mmm format separated by " --> ".
3. Subtitle Text
One or more lines of text to be displayed during the specified time.
4. Blank Line
Empty line separating each subtitle block from the next.
Timestamp Format
SRT timestamps use the format HH:MM:SS,mmm --> HH:MM:SS,mmm where:
- HH = hours (00-99, exactly 2 digits)
- MM = minutes (00-59, exactly 2 digits)
- SS = seconds (00-59, exactly 2 digits)
- mmm = milliseconds (000-999, exactly 3 digits)
- --> = separator between start and end times (with spaces)
Examples of valid timestamps:
- 00:00:12,340 --> 00:00:15,230
- 01:23:45,678 --> 01:23:49,012
- 02:15:30,000 --> 02:15:33,500
Complete SRT File Example
Here's a complete example of a properly formatted SRT file:
Use Cases and Applications
Video Streaming
Primary format for streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and Vimeo for multilingual content.
Accessibility
Essential for hearing-impaired viewers, providing text representation of audio content.
Language Learning
Educational content with subtitles helps language learners follow along with audio.
Video Production
Professional video editing and post-production workflows use SRT for subtitle integration.
Content Localization
Translation services use SRT files to provide localized content for global audiences.
Broadcasting
Television and live streaming use SRT for closed captioning and subtitle delivery.
Software Compatibility
SRT format enjoys universal support across all major platforms and applications. Here's a comprehensive compatibility overview:
Video Players
Streaming Platforms
Video Editors
Mobile Applications
Compatibility Legend
SRT Tools and Utilities
Explore our comprehensive collection of SRT tools to create, convert, validate, and work with SRT subtitle files.