Local, open source
Vibe
Why it fits
A cross-platform starting point with batch processing and several export formats.
Keep in mind
Allow disk space and setup time for the model.
macOS · Windows · LinuxProduct facts & sources
A GUIDE FOR THE JOB AT HAND
Free AI tools for exporting subtitle files
This shortlist requires a free open-source app and documented SRT/VTT export. Your computer does the work, so setup time and hardware remain part of the trade-off.
2 tools comparedChecked 2026-09-08Editorial selection
WHAT MAKES THE CUT
The criteria come first.
Each tool must fit the task. This is a shortlist, not a universal quality ranking.
- Free open-source local transcription.
- SRT and VTT export documented by the developer.
- Broad desktop support first; automation can change your preferred choice.
Free
Local, open source
Buzz
Why it fits
A useful option for repeatable watch-folder or command-line subtitle jobs.
Keep in mind
Current Mac support requires Apple silicon; optional remote API processing is outside this free local workflow.
Windows · Linux · macOS (Apple silicon)Product facts & sources
THE PRACTICAL DIFFERENCES
Side by side.
| Tool | Published price | Processing | Key limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Free Open-source app. Optional cloud services can have their own charges. | Local transcription; optional cloud features | Allow disk space and setup time for the model. |
| Buzz | Free Open-source app. Optional remote API usage is billed by its provider. | Local models; optional remote API | Current Mac support requires Apple silicon; optional remote API processing is outside this free local workflow. |
Why these tools?
Paid cloud plans and edition-specific paid upgrades fall outside this guide’s free open-source requirement.
Editorial examples are unpaid; any paid inclusions are labeled. We compare official published facts; we have not run an accuracy benchmark. Read our method.
Before you choose.
Will I get a finished video?
SRT and VTT are subtitle files. Use your video editor or hosting platform to attach them or burn captions into the video.
Is there a per-minute charge?
Local transcription in these open-source apps has no per-minute software fee. Hardware, electricity and any optional cloud services are separate costs.
Does your product fit this job?
See what a useful listing could look like.