How to Add Subtitles and Captions in iMovie in 2025

iMovie can add subtitles to videos on an iPhone, iPad, or a Mac. The Title feature lets you type or past captions and subtitles manually. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to add subtitles in iMovie. If you need a more convenient method, this article also tells you how to add subtitles to a video with just one click.

Part 1. Can iMovie Automatically Add Subtitle?

Sadly, iMovie cannot help you generate subtitles. You can only manually type your subtitles and captions. Thankfully, it offers many customization features to make stylish subtitles in iMovie.

Can You Add Subtitle File to iMovie?

Unfortunately, iMovie doesn't allow you to add a subtitle file, like .srt, to a video. That's also why it's difficult to add subtitles or captions in iMovie. What you can do is only manually input subtitles. However, you can use a reliable and convenient alternative to add your subtitle file easily.

Part 2. How to Add Subtitles in iMovie on an iPhone or iPad [Easiest Method]

Would you like to know how to put subtitles in iMovie? You can easily achieve this using iMovie on your iPhone or iPad. Below, we'll guide you through the simple steps to add subtitles to your videos in iMovie. Let's get started:

Step 1 Launch the iMovie app. If there's no app, download it from the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Tap the Movie button to create a project. Select the video to which you want to add subtitles and tap Create Movie.

Step 2 Tap on the video timeline and select the Text button at the bottom of the menu. Choose a style that suits your needs and drag it to the desired point on the timeline.

Step 3 Then, tap the overlaid text and select Edit to type your subtitle here. The text will appear at the chosen point when you play the video. If you want multiple captions, repeat the above steps as needed, selecting the same or different Title styles.

Step 4 Once you're satisfied, tap Done on the top left. Tap the Share button at the lower part to save the file. That's how to insert subtitles in iMovie on your iOS devices.

Part 3. How to Add Subtitles in Mac iMovie [Complete Tutorial]

Adding iMovie subtitles on Mac is straightforward, and you would not need any special expertise. However, it might take a bit longer to do so if your video is long. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process.

Step 1 Check the Applications folder in your Finder window, then double-click iMovie to open it. Begin a new project by navigating to Project, Create New, and then Movie.

Step 2 Import the video you wish to subtitle by clicking on Import Media and selecting your desired clips. Drag your video clip onto the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3 Click on the Titles button to pick a style for your subtitles. Drag the Title box onto the timeline and specify when you want the subtitles to appear. Enter your captions directly into each Title box. Click on a Title box to modify the text. Adjust the font, size, style, alignment, and color to match your preferences. That's how you can add subtitles to a video in iMovie on Mac.

Step 4 Finally, save your video by selecting File, Share, and then File. Give your video a name and click Save. If the video you edit does have a big file size, do not hesitate to compress videos in iMovie to reduce the file size so that the player will not have trouble playing it or if you upload it.

Adding subtitles to iMovie is difficult and complex. Well, we have an alternative route that you can take to add a subtitle to your video, as long as you have the subtitle file of it.

Part 4. Best iMovie Alternative to Add Subtitles in Videos on Mac & Windows

Integrating iMovie subtitles can be quite a task, but with Tipard Video Converter Ultimate, it will be very easy! If you have a subtitle file handy, you can effortlessly add subtitles to your videos on both Mac and Windows. It isn't just known for its conversion prowess; it's your go-to solution for seamlessly adding subtitles.

Furthermore, it offers a range of powerful features to enhance your video editing experience. From support for various video formats to customizable subtitle options and lightning-fast processing speed, Tipard Video Converter Ultimate has you covered.

Its user-friendly interface allows beginners to enhance their videos with captions easily. You can also add subtitles to a movie or TV show if you have subtitles download websites. Say goodbye to tedious manual captioning and hello to a smoother editing experience with the help of this app!