How to Translate a Video to Text: A Comprehensive Guide

Translating a video into text can be a labor-intensive task, but there are several methods available to help make the process smoother and more efficient. In this article, we will explore the various options and tools to translate a video into text, from manual transcription to automatic AI-powered solutions.

Three Primary Methods of Transcribing a Video

There are three primary methods to transcribe a video into text: doing it yourself (DIY), using AI transcription software, and using a transcription service that employs human transcriptionists.

DIY: Manual Transcription

Manual transcription involves transcribing the audio content of the video yourself. This method can be time-consuming, error-prone, and require a high degree of focus. Tools like Otter can assist in this process by automatically transcribing the audio, but you will still need to manually review and edit the transcript. Once you have the transcript, you would then need to translate it separately using translation tools like Deepl or Reverso.

AI Transcription Software

AI transcription software offers a more efficient and accurate solution. It can significantly reduce the chances of errors and provide a quicker turnaround time. There are numerous free AI transcription services available online that can help with this process.

Transcription Services with Human Transcriptionists

For a more human touch, transcription services that use human transcriptionists can provide a high level of accuracy and flexibility. These services can be expensive, but they offer the best quality transcripts.

Simultaneous Transcription and Translation

For those who need both transcription and translation, there are AI dubbing and subtitling services that combine both processes. One such service is Vidby. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

Using Vidby to Transcribe and Translate a Video

Step 1: Upload the Video Upload the video in MP4 format. Step 2: Select Language Preferences On the service page, mark the language spoken in the video and the language to translate the text into. Step 3: Specify Video Duration and Quality Specify the video duration. Choose the quality of the transcription and translation. If needed, the result can be reviewed and corrected by experts. Step 4: Confirm Payment If you have used up your free transcription credits, confirm the payment. Step 5: Download the Transcription and Subtitles Download the final result in the required format: DOCX for the transcription and SRT for the subtitles.

Typically, you receive the transcription with the translation within 5-10 minutes. However, the turnaround time might increase if you opt for expert review and correction.

Transcribing a YouTube Video to Text

Transcribing a video on YouTube is straightforward. Here’s a quick guide:

Go to the video and click on 'Show transcript.' Copy the text from the transcript section. You can include timestamps or exclude them as per your needs.

This method is particularly useful for short videos where the content is easily accessible without the need for additional transcription tools.