Translation vs Subtitles in OneTake

OneTake supports both video translation and subtitles, but they serve different purposes and work in different ways. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right option for your content.

What video translation does in OneTake

Video translation creates a new spoken-language version of your video.

When you translate a video:

• The spoken audio is changed to a new language
• A new dubbed version of the video is generated
• The original video remains unchanged
• Each translated language appears as a separate version under the same project

By default, OneTake uses your pre-recorded voice sample to dub the translated video. This means the translated version sounds like you, just in another language, unless dynamic voice cloning is selected.

What subtitles do in OneTake

Subtitles add on-screen text to your video without changing the spoken audio.

When you use subtitles:

• The original audio stays the same
• Text appears on screen in sync with the speech
• No new video version is created
• Viewers still hear the original language

Subtitles are useful when viewers want to read along, watch without sound, or follow the video in noisy environments.

Key differences between translation and subtitles

Translation:

• Changes the spoken language
• Produces a new dubbed video
• Creates a separate language version
• Uses voice processing and translation minutes

Subtitles:

• Do not change the audio
• Display text on the screen
• Stay within the same video
• Do not create a new video version

When to use translation

Use translation when:

• You want to reach audiences who do not understand the original spoken language
• You want a fully localized viewing experience
• You want the video to sound native to the audience

Translation is commonly used for:

• International audiences
• Training content
• Sales and marketing videos
• Educational material

When to use subtitles

Use subtitles when:

• You want to keep the original voice
• You want accessibility support
• You want viewers to read along with the audio
• You want faster viewing without audio

Subtitles are commonly used for:

• Social media videos
• Accessibility
• Quiet or sound-off viewing environments

Using both together

Translation and subtitles can be used together.

For example:

• A translated video can also include subtitles in the same language
• A translated video can include subtitles in a different language

Each option is controlled independently inside the editor.

What translation and subtitles do not change

Neither translation nor subtitles change:

• Video layout
• Visual styles
• Branding elements
• Thumbnails or posters

Those settings remain tied to the video design and style choices.

Updated on: 09/02/2026