When seeking transcription services, you’ll also need to know which file format will work best for your project. Ideally, there are four types of transcription file formats you should know about.
What is the Best File Type For Transcripts?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to transcription file formats. Instead, the format you select will depend on the type of transcription you’re looking for and the industry.
For instance, a plain text format would be best for a simple audio interview between you and a subject matter expert (SME). On the other hand, SubRip Subtitle (.srt) is the better choice for a video conference with multiple speakers.
If you are unsure which transcription format is best for you, message us, and we will be happy to help you choose.
4 Main Transcription File Formats
Read on to discover the 5 most common file formats and use cases.
Plain Text Layout
Plain text is the most common formatting option because it is simple and easy to work with. A plain text transcript means that you’ll get a straightforward file in the form of Microsoft Word (.docx), PDFs, Rich Text Format (RTF), or Plain text files (.txt). You can open the latter with a notepad app. Also, plain text transcriptions can include timestamps, denoting the time each segment is spoken.
Here are examples of transcripts that work best for plain text format:
- Interviews
- Meeting Minutes
- Phone Calls
- Lecture Notes
- Dictations
- Legal Depositions
- General Notes
SubRip Subtitle (.srt)
SubRip Subtitle (.srt) is a file format used for video subtitling. It contains text and timing information to ensure the subtitles synchronize with the corresponding moments in a video. This format is best when you want to ensure that your video files are accessible. It works best for the following transcripts:
- Educational videos
- Panel discussions
- Video interviews
- Online course content
- Documentary narrations
HTML
HTML files are most common for presenting transcribed content on the web. The transcribed text and elements like timestamps, speaker information, or formatting can be structured using HTML tags.
This format provides web-friendly transcripts that are easily accessible and readable online.
When should you opt for this transcription file format?
HTML is useful when integrating transcriptions into websites, blogs, or online platforms.
WebVTT (Web Video Text Tracks) (.vtt)
WebVTT, or Web Video Text Tracks, is a format designed for video subtitles. The text file will usually have text that synchronizes with the video in perfect timing. This format may sometimes offer more precision compared to SubRip files. Moreover, WebVTT is only used for web video subtitles, while SubRip Subtitle is more versatile.
Save Time With Professional Transcription Services
You can save time by hiring professional transcription services like Transcribers Digest. We deliver transcripts within 24 hours and cater to all your formatting preferences. Contact us today!