Top 10 Subtitling Companies : How To Choose The Right One

Feb 8, 2024 | Localization, Translation

In today’s digital age, subtitling companies are revolutionizing how content reaches global audiences. As video content dominates the internet, these companies bridge the language gap, ensuring your message resonates worldwide.

Whether you’re a content creator or a business expanding globally, choosing the right subtitling partner is crucial for successful content localization

By translating your video content, you can reach people in their native language and make your videos more accessible.

It is especially crucial for businesses looking to expand their global footprint and engage with a diverse audience.

You can choose from the various subtitling companies and partner with an agency best suited for you.

Video subtitling services have become essential in today’s global content landscape. As audiences consume media across borders, professional subtitle services bridge language gaps while maintaining the integrity of your original content.

Whether you need multilingual subtitles for international marketing or accessibility-focused captioning, specialized subtitle service providers offer expertise that generic translation companies can’t match.

Top 10 Subtitling Companies

Here is a list of the top 10 subtitling companies and a brief description of their services to help you choose the right one

1. Milestone Localization

Subtitling services

Headquartered in India, Milestone Localization is an ISO 17100:2015 and ISO 9001:2015 certified company providing language services to individuals and businesses across the globe. It is one of the leading subtitling companies providing services in over 70+ languages.

Milestone works with native bi-lingual subtitlers and transcriptionists having 4+ years of experience and domain expertise.

Video translation services offered by Milestone are:

They provide subtitling services for all kinds of videos from short ads and infomercials to documentaries and eLearning courses. Milestone Localization specializes in video translation and supports all video formats. Their subtitles and transcriptions are proofread, edited, quality assessed, and integrated into videos.

98% of their clients say they would recommend their services to a colleague.

Milestone Localization partnered with the renowned Canadian YouTuber Rosie Gabrielle to provide her with accurate and timely subtitling services. Hear directly from Rosie about her experience working with Milestone by checking out her video testimonial.
You can read Milestone’s case studies on other subtitling projects here.

If you are looking to add subtitles to your video, Milestone can take care of the process from start to finish. Get in touch with us.

Also read: Subtitles vs Closed Captions: Everything You Need To Know

Looking For A Reliable Subtitling Agency?

2. Lionbridge

Lion Bridge

With over 25 years of experience, Lionbridge is one of the leading companies in the translation and localization industry.

They offer a complete package of video localization services including:

  • Video transcription and subtitling
  • Voice-over and dubbing
  • Video creating and post-production
  • 3D Animation and Illustration
  • Closed and open caption subtitling

Their language services are available in 350+ languages and operate in over 500 cities.

Also read: Top 8 Website Localization Companies

3. Rev

Rev claims to be a top provider of speech-to-text services in the world and works with individuals as well as companies across the globe. Their video translation services include:

  • Transcription
  • Video Captioning and Subtitling
  • Live video captioning for zoom sessions

They work with over 7000 freelancers across the globe and utilise AI and other technologies to provide fast and flexible speech-to-text solutions.

Also read: Why should companies localize corporate training?

4. Day Translations

With a global network of over 10000 translators, Day translations is one of the leading subtitling companies that provides services for business and entertainment around the world.

Their audio-visual services include:

  • Closed captioning and Subtitling
  • Audio and video transcription
  • Voice over

Subtitling services by Day Translations are available 24/7 and promise accurate translation with a faster turnaround for any language.

5. TransPerfect

With over 25+ years of experience in the industry, TransPerfect is a leading provider of translation and localization services.  They operate in 43 countries and have served customers from across the globe.

Their video translation services include

  • Multilingual video production
  • Subtitling
  • Transcription

However, their subtitling service is AI-driven and has been custom fitted for subtitling requirements across various platforms. Therefore, if you want your subtitling work to be done entirely by humans TransPerfect may not be the right choice.

6. GoTranscript

Founded in 2005, go transcript provides exclusive transcription services in 50+ languages. They promise a 99% quality guarantee with a quick turnaround time.

Their services include

  • Transcription
  • Subtitling
  • Captioning
  • Text translation.

They work with over 20000 professional subtitlers, proofreaders, and customer specialists around the globe and ensure your project deliverables meet your quality deadlines.

7. Semantix

Semantix is one of the largest language companies with its offices located in seven countries. They work with a global network of 7000 language specialists and provide translation and subtitling services in 238 languages.

Their video translation services include:

  • Subtitling
  • Voice over
  • Transcription

Semantix is a professional subtitling company that provides multilingual subtitles for a multicultural audience across all domains.

8.  Tridindia

Founded in 2002, Tridindia is one of the leading names in the translation industry. They work with over 2000 native translators and provide translation and subtitling services in 150+ languages.

Their video translation services include:

  • Video captioning and subtitling
  • Transcription
  • Voice-over and dubbing

Tridindia’s services are available 24/7 and guarantee quality translations with a faster turnaround time.

9. Voxtab

With over 15 years of experience, Voxtab provides professional video translation services in major languages across the globe.

Their video translation services include:

  • Video captioning and subtitling
  • Transcription
  • Voiceover

Voxtab promises best-in-class quality, on-time delivery and a quick turnaround with complementary services and data security.

10. Circle Translations

Circle Translations is one of the leading subtitling companies that provide 100% human subtitling services in over 60 languages with a quick turnaround time.

Their video translation services include:

  • Transcription
  • Subtitling and Closed Captioning
  • Subtitle translation service

Circle Translations work with an extensive network of knowledgeable and experienced subtitle translators to deliver high-quality translations.

Benefits of video translation and subtitling

Adding subtitles and captions to your videos can be a game-changer!

Studies show that 80% of viewers are more likely to watch an entire video when captions are available. Additionally, adding subtitles can improve your video viewing time by 40% and video shares by 15%.

It can help increase engagement with your content, as viewers are more likely to engage with content tailored to their language and cultural preferences.

It will also enhance your brand image and increase customer satisfaction, brand awareness, and brand loyalty. For example, you can even use translated videos to support your sales team in new markets. Video translation can also help boost your video’s search engine optimization (SEO) by making it available to a larger audience, leading to increased visibility and higher search engine rankings.

Also read: Everything About Multilingual Subtitles For eLearning Videos

Understanding Professional Video Subtitling Services

Professional video subtitling service providers offer specialized expertise beyond basic translation. These services involve the careful timing of text to match dialogue, consideration of reading speeds, adaptation of cultural references, and technical implementation across various platforms and formats.

Key aspects of professional subtitle services include:

  • Time-coded text synchronization that matches dialogue precisely
  • Character limitations to ensure readability on various screens
  • Cultural adaptation of idioms, jokes, and references
  • Formatting standards that follow platform-specific requirements
  • Technical implementation across different video formats and platforms

Quality video subtitling services preserve the tone and intent of the original content while making it accessible to new audiences. Whether for entertainment, educational, marketing, or corporate content, professional subtitling ensures your message resonates effectively with viewers in their native language.

Why you should work with a subtitling company

Video translation has become essential for businesses and content creators looking to engage with a global audience.

However, it’s crucial to ensure that the translation process is done correctly to achieve the desired results.

When it comes to subtitling, you have a range of options. You can hire in-house subtitlers, and freelancers, use free subtitle-generating software or work with a professional subtitling company.

However, the question is, are they the right choice for you?

It is best to work with a professional subtitling company if you want accurate, culturally sensitive, and organically flowing subtitles that your target audience will find relatable.

Here are a few benefits that you can gain from outsourcing your subtitling requirements to a professional subtitling company.

Advantages of working with subtitling companies

1: Quality

Subtitling companies have teams of experienced subtitlers who can produce high-quality subtitles that are accurate, clear, and synchronized with the video. They also have access to specialised software and tools to produce subtitles efficiently and effectively.

2: Efficiency

Subtitling companies can handle large volumes of content and deliver subtitles within tight deadlines. They have the resources and expertise to manage complex subtitling projects, which can save time and effort for clients.

3: Localization

Subtitling companies can provide subtitles in multiple languages, allowing clients to reach a global audience. They also have a deep understanding of cultural nuances and can adapt subtitles to suit the target audience.

4: Cost-effectiveness

Outsourcing subtitling to a specialized company can be more cost-effective than hiring in-house subtitlers. Subtitling companies can offer competitive pricing, especially for large volumes of content.

5: Compliance

Subtitling companies are familiar with industry standards and regulations, such as accessibility guidelines for people with disabilities. They can ensure that subtitles meet these standards and are compliant with relevant regulations.

In a world where visual media reigns supreme, professional subtitling services can profoundly influence how your content performs internationally. High-quality, well-timed subtitles empower viewers to follow along even without sound, offering accessibility to non-native speakers and the hearing-impaired. Moreover, incorporating multilingual subtitles taps into enormous global audiences, enabling more people to enjoy and share your videos while boosting brand recognition and loyalty.

Beyond basic captioning, many providers also supply video translation services, adapting cultural references and specialized terms for each target market. This strategic localization fosters stronger audience engagement, higher retention rates, and more meaningful interactions across platforms.

Whether you’re a corporate trainer hosting eLearning sessions or a media producer seeking broader viewer appeal, investing in expertly translated subtitles can pay off through increased views, social shares, and new revenue streams. Ultimately, choosing a subtitling partner who balances linguistic accuracy with cultural insight is key – and that’s precisely why working with an experienced agency can make the difference between average video content and a truly global phenomenon.

Multilingual Subtitles: Expanding Your Global Reach

Multilingual subtitles allow your content to connect with diverse audiences worldwide. By professionally translating your videos into multiple languages, you can significantly expand your reach while preserving the authenticity of your message.

Benefits of implementing multilingual subtitles include:

  • Wider audience engagement across language barriers
  • Improved viewer retention as people prefer content in their native language
  • Enhanced SEO performance through language-specific keywords
  • Greater content accessibility for international markets
  • Increased sharing and distribution across global platforms

For businesses targeting specific regions, specialized language services like Arabic subtitling can be particularly valuable. Arabic subtitling requires expertise in right-to-left text display, cultural sensitivity, and dialect considerations that only professional subtitling companies can provide effectively.

Similarly, Japanese subtitling services require understanding of unique linguistic features, vertical text options, and cultural context to ensure your content resonates with Japanese audiences.

How to choose the right subtitling company?

The right company can be different for different businesses. However, while choosing from the many subtitling companies, here are a few factors you need to consider.

Choosing the right subtitling company

1: Certification

When choosing a subtitling company, look for those with an ISO certification. While many businesses have an ISO 9001 certificate, note that an ISO 17100 certification is given specifically for translation and localization services. This certification is an indication that the company has a robust translation process and guarantees quality and accuracy.

2: Language

It is necessary to check the language options available in different subtitling companies to see if they provide services in the languages you require. Not all subtitling companies offer services in all languages, so make sure the company you choose offers services in the language pairs you need.

3: Video Formats

Some subtitling companies only support certain video formats, while others support all video formats. It is crucial to check with the company beforehand to ensure there are no discrepancies later on.

4: Dedicated Team

When choosing a subtitling company, consider whether they assign a dedicated team to your project with a project manager. This ensures a smooth process flow and effective communication, as the dedicated team working on your project can focus solely on your project’s needs.

5: Native Translators

The subtitles can resonate with the audience only when the language flows naturally and is adapted according to the cultural nuances. Only native translators understand the language and cultural nuances and can deliver more accurate and organically flowing subtitles.

It is essential to choose a subtitling company that employs native translators having a minimum of four years of experience in the subject matter.

6: Cost

Subtitles are generally charged per minute, and the rates differ for each language pair. Further, the rates may increase depending on the complexity of the subject matter. So, before partnering with a subtitling company, always ensure your budget aligns with their prices.

While cost is a significant factor, it is worth spending more on high-quality translations rather than paying for revisions or having to start over.

Considering these factors, you can choose the right subtitling company for your needs and ensure that your subtitles are high-quality, accurate, and culturally adapted to resonate with your audience.

7: Specialized Language Expertise

When selecting from various subtitling companies, consider their expertise in specific languages important to your target markets. For example, if you’re expanding into Middle Eastern markets, look for providers with specialized Arabic subtitling capabilities including native speakers familiar with regional dialects and cultural nuances.

Similarly, if targeting Asian markets, Japanese subtitling services require specialized knowledge of language-specific text styling, vertical text options, and cultural context. Companies with dedicated language experts will deliver more authentic and culturally appropriate subtitles than those using general translators.

8: Technical Capabilities

Professional video subtitling services should offer compatibility with all standard video formats and platforms. Ensure your chosen provider can deliver subtitles in formats compatible with your distribution channels, whether that’s social media platforms, learning management systems, streaming services, or broadcast television.

Look for companies that offer:

  • Multiple subtitle file formats (.srt, .vtt, .ass, etc.)
  • Hard-coded and soft subtitling options
  • Integration services for your specific platforms
  • Quality assurance testing across devices

Conclusion

To make your content more accessible to viewers across the globe, adding captions and subtitles can be very beneficial.

However, it is crucial to get your subtitles right for your audience to resonate with your content. So, it is essential to partner with the right subtitling company that looks after the process from start to finish.

All subtitling companies have their unique processes, benefits and drawbacks. Using this guide, you can choose the subtitling company best suited to your requirements.

Contact us to get started on your subtitling project.

Also read: Top 10 Translation Companies In India

Looking For A Reliable Subtitling Agency?

FAQS 

Which Are the Best Subtitling Companies?

The best subtitling companies provide high-quality, time-synchronized subtitles for movies, TV shows, corporate videos, and online content. Leading subtitling agencies offer:

  • Accurate and culturally adapted translations
  • Closed captions for accessibility and compliance
  • Multilingual subtitle services for global audiences
    Working with a professional subtitling provider ensures better audience engagement and video accessibility.

What Are Professional Subtitling Services?

Professional subtitling services involve the creation of accurate, synchronized, and linguistically correct subtitles for various types of content, including:

  • Corporate training videos and e-learning materials
  • Marketing and promotional videos
  • Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube
    High-quality subtitling services improve video reach, accessibility, and global audience engagement.

What Are Multilingual Subtitles and Why Are They Important?

Multilingual subtitles allow videos to be understood by audiences who speak different languages. They help:

  • Expand content reach to international viewers
  • Improve SEO rankings for video content
  • Enhance viewer engagement and comprehension
    Professional multilingual subtitling services ensure high-quality, culturally adapted translations that maintain original context and tone.

How Do Video Translation Services Work?

Video translation services involve:

  • Transcribing spoken content into text
  • Translating text into multiple languages

Embedding subtitles or dubbing audio for localized content
These services are essential for businesses looking to expand their reach in global markets through localized video content.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Subtitling Services?

The cost of subtitling services depends on:

  • Language pair (English to Spanish, French, Chinese, etc.)
  • Video duration and complexity
  • Turnaround time (urgent subtitles may cost more)
    On average, professional subtitling services range from $5 to $15 per minute, depending on language and technical requirements.

Which Industries Benefit the Most From Subtitling and Video Translation Services?

Several industries require subtitling and video translation services, including:

  • Entertainment & Media: Movies, TV series, streaming platforms
  • Corporate & E-learning: Training videos, webinars, instructional content
  • Marketing & Advertising: Promotional videos, social media ads
  • Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: Patient education videos, clinical research presentations
    Using top subtitling companies ensures high-quality, localized video content for global audiences.

How Do Professional Subtitling Services Improve Video Engagement?

Professional subtitling services enhance engagement by:

  • Increasing video watch time and accessibility
  • Improving SEO rankings for online videos

Providing accurate, culturally relevant subtitles for multilingual audiences
Companies using professional multilingual subtitling see higher viewer retention and global audience reach.

What makes professional video subtitling services different from automatic subtitling?

Professional video subtitling services rely on human linguists who understand context, cultural nuances, and industry-specific terminology that automatic systems miss. While AI can generate basic transcriptions, professional subtitlers ensure accurate timing, appropriate reading speeds, and cultural adaptations that make content feel natural to viewers. They also maintain consistent terminology, handle specialized vocabulary, and adapt idioms or humor that automatic systems typically mistranslate.

What are multilingual subtitles and how can they benefit my content?

Multilingual subtitles are video captions translated into multiple languages that allow your content to reach diverse global audiences. They benefit your content by expanding your potential viewership, improving engagement metrics (as viewers prefer content in their native language), boosting SEO through language-specific keywords, and increasing accessibility across international markets. High-quality multilingual subtitles also demonstrate commitment to inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity.

What makes Arabic subtitling different from other language subtitling?

Arabic subtitling involves several unique considerations including right-to-left text direction, contextual letter shapes, and cultural sensitivities. Professional Arabic subtitling services ensure proper handling of dialectal variations (Egyptian, Gulf, Levantine, etc.), appropriate cultural adaptation of references, and technical implementation that properly displays right-to-left text. Given the 422 million Arabic speakers worldwide, quality Arabic subtitling opens content to a massive potential audience across the Middle East and North Africa.

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Gauthami M M

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