Convert videos to text: YouTube, TikTok and Instagram
Need a quote from a video or subtitles for a recording? Media2Text turns spoken audio into a searchable transcript. Paste an accessible public video link or upload an audio or video file, then review and export the result.
1. Which source should you use?
YouTube transcription starts with one public video URL. TikTok and Instagram links follow the same check: the site verifies access and duration before submission. Private, live and restricted sources are not supported. If you have the original file and permission to use it, upload that instead. Link import is in beta.
Transcription captures speech, not silent on-screen text. For captioned YouTube videos, Show transcript lets you read existing captions without a new transcription. YouTube Help.
2. How to transcribe a video
- Paste the video link and select Continue, or drag a file into the upload area.
- Check the source and choose the language spoken in the recording. Enable Generate subtitles if you need timed captions.
- Start transcription. In the result, search for a phrase and click its timestamp to check the audio.
- Open Export. Choose TXT or DOCX for readable text, SRT for subtitles, or VTT for a compatible web player.
3. Convert MP3 to SRT online for free?
Upload an MP3, enable subtitle timing and follow the same workflow. SRT contains numbered text cues with start and end times; renaming an MP3 or TXT file to .srt does not create subtitles.
Media2Text offers a free trial without sign-up or a credit card: up to 2 lifetime tasks sharing 75 minutes in total, with no reset. This is a limited trial, not unlimited free transcription.
4. Before you reuse the result
Will every word be correct?
Noise, overlapping speech and unusual names can cause errors. Check names, numbers and cue timing against the recording.
Can I translate or summarize it?
Yes. The workspace supports transcript translation, AI summaries and mind maps. Availability and allowances vary by account and plan.
From recording to usable text
Start with one short recording. Check the transcript first, then export the text or subtitles you need. This keeps mistakes from carrying into captions, quotes or notes.
Try it free