How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos: Complete Guide for 2025

Getting transcripts from YouTube videos has become incredibly easy and useful for content creators, students, researchers, and professionals. Whether you need text for repurposing content, accessibility, or research purposes, there are multiple methods to extract video transcripts from YouTube. In this comprehensive guide, I will walk you through every method to get transcripts of YouTube videos for free and paid options available in 2025.

What is a YouTube Transcript

A YouTube transcript is the complete text version of everything spoken in a video. It includes every word, phrase, and dialogue from the video content. YouTube automatically generates transcripts when creators enable closed captions on their videos. These transcripts are incredibly valuable because they help you search for specific content within videos, improve accessibility, and create written content from video material.

The transcript file usually includes timestamps that show exactly when each part of the dialogue occurs in the video. This makes it easy to jump to specific sections or reference exact moments. Transcripts work as a text transcript of YouTube video content and are available for most videos that have captions enabled.

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos on Desktop

The easiest way to get transcripts of YouTube videos is through your computer or desktop. YouTube provides a built-in feature that makes this process simple and free. Here is how to extract video transcript from YouTube on your desktop computer.

Method 1: Using YouTubes Built-In Transcript Feature

This is the most straightforward way to get transcripts from YouTube videos without using any third-party tools.

Step 1: Open the YouTube Video

First, go to YouTube and find the video you want to get transcripts for. Make sure the video has closed captions enabled. Not all videos have transcripts available, but most professional content, lectures, and tutorials do.

Step 2: Locate the Transcript Option

Below the video player, you will see several options. Look for the three vertical dots menu or the “Show More” button. Click on this menu to expand additional options. You should see a “Show Transcript” button or option that appears in the description area.

Step 3: Open the Transcript Panel

Click on “Show Transcript” and a panel will appear on the right side of your screen displaying the full text transcript of the YouTube video. The transcript will show each line of dialogue with corresponding timestamps indicating exactly when that part occurs in the video.

Step 4: Copy and Save the Transcript

You can now copy the text from this transcript. To copy without formatting, select all the text, copy it, and then paste it into a text editor like Google Docs or Notepad using Ctrl+Shift+V on Windows or Command+Shift+V on Mac. This removes the formatting and gives you clean text.

Step 5: Toggle Timestamps On or Off

At the top of the transcript panel, you have the option to toggle timestamps on or off. If you want the full text transcript of YouTube video without timestamps, simply click the timestamp toggle to disable them before copying.

Advantages of Built-In Transcripts:

• Completely free to use

• No sign-up or account required

• Available directly on YouTube

• Shows timestamps for easy reference

• Works on any video with captions

Disadvantages of Built-In Transcripts:

• Cannot directly download the transcript file

• Must copy and paste manually

• Limited formatting options

• Works only for videos with captions enabled

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos for Free Using Online Tools

If you want a more convenient way to download YouTube transcripts without copying and pasting, several free online tools can help you extract video transcript from YouTube instantly.

Method 2: Using YouTube Transcript Downloader Tools

Online YouTube transcript extractor tools make it incredibly easy to get transcripts of YouTube videos in seconds. These tools are completely free and require no sign-up or installation.

How to Use Online Transcript Tools:

Step 1: Copy Your YouTube Video URL

Go to the YouTube video and copy the link from the address bar. You can right-click on the video and select “Copy Video URL” for quicker access.

Step 2: Visit a Transcript Tool Website

Go to websites like YouTube-Transcript.io, Mapify.so, NoteGPT, or Tactiq.io. These platforms offer free YouTube transcript download services.

Step 3: Paste the Video Link

Paste your copied YouTube link into the input field on the website. Click the “Generate” or “Get Transcript” button.

Step 4: Download or Copy the Transcript

Within seconds, the tool will extract the full transcript from the YouTube video. You can now copy the text or download it as a TXT file depending on the tool you use.

Popular Free YouTube Transcript Tools:

Several top-rated tools are available to make script from YouTube video easily. YouTube-Transcript.io is one of the most popular because it offers free extraction, bulk download options, and AI summarization features. Mapify provides a clean interface where you can choose to include or exclude timestamps and download transcripts as TXT files.

NoteGPT combines transcription with note-taking and AI summarization, making it perfect if you want to create quick summaries alongside your transcripts. Tactiq.io works as a live transcription tool as well, so you can use it for meetings and YouTube videos. These tools typically support multiple format exports including TXT, SRT, VTT, and sometimes CSV files.

All these platforms work without requiring you to create an account, though some offer premium features if you want additional functionality.

Best Free YouTube Transcript Tools for 2025:

• YouTube-Transcript.io – Fast, free, supports bulk downloads

• Mapify – No account needed, instant downloads

• NoteGPT – Includes AI summarization

• Tactiq.io – Works for live transcription too

• Genelify – Simple and straightforward interface

• Descript – Offers free tier with editing capabilities

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos on Phone

Getting text transcript of YouTube video on your mobile device is possible but requires using the YouTube app. The process differs slightly depending on whether you use an iPhone or Android device.

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos on Mobile

For iPhone:

Step 1: Open the YouTube App

Launch the YouTube app on your iPhone. Make sure you have the latest version of the app installed.

Step 2: Find Your Video

Search for and open the YouTube video you want to get transcripts for.

Step 3: Tap More Options

Tap the three dots or “More” button located below the video title in the description area.

Step 4: Select Show Transcript

Look for the “Show Transcript” option in the menu. Tap it to display the video transcript on your screen.

Step 5: Access Transcript Features

Once the transcript appears, you can tap the three vertical dots to select your preferred language if multiple options are available. You cannot hide timestamps on mobile like you can on desktop.

Step 6: Save Your Transcript

Unfortunately, YouTube does not allow direct copying and pasting of transcripts on iPhone. Your best option is to take screenshots of the transcript text or manually type out the sections you need. Some users recommend using third-party apps to capture the transcript text from screenshots.

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos on Android

The process for Android devices is very similar to iPhone.

Step 1: Open YouTube App

Open the YouTube application on your Android phone or tablet.

Step 2: Play the Video

Find and open the YouTube video for which you need the transcript.

Step 3: Access More Options

Below the video, tap the “…More” or three dots icon in the description section.

Step 4: Show Transcript

Select “Show Transcript” from the menu options.

Step 5: View and Save

The transcript will display on your screen with timestamps. On Android, you also cannot copy the transcript directly. Your options are to screenshot the text or manually copy sections by typing.

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos on iPhone and Android Without Paying:

The free built-in YouTube transcript feature is your best option on mobile phones. However, this method has limitations since you cannot copy and paste. If you need to extract and use the full transcript on mobile, consider these alternatives:

Use a mobile web browser to visit free transcript tool websites and paste your YouTube link there. This allows you to download transcripts while using your phone. Install third-party apps that may offer transcript extraction features. Download the video using a YouTube downloader app, then upload it to a transcription service on your phone.

Methods to Extract and Copy YouTube Video Transcripts

Method 3: Using Chrome Extensions for YouTube Transcript Download

Browser extensions provide another convenient way to extract video transcript from YouTube without visiting multiple websites.

YT Transcript Downloader Chrome Extension:

This popular Chrome extension adds a download button directly to YouTube videos.

Step 1: Install the Extension

Visit the Chrome Web Store and search for “YT Transcript Downloader.” Click “Add to Chrome” to install the extension.

Step 2: Navigate to Your Video

Go to the YouTube video for which you want to copy YouTube video transcript.

Step 3: Access the Download Button

The extension adds a download button near the video controls. Click this button to download the transcript instantly.

Step 4: Select Your Format

Choose your preferred file format – typically TXT, SRT, or VTT options are available.

Step 5: Save to Your Computer

The transcript file will download directly to your downloads folder. You can now open it in any text editor and use it freely.

Advantages of Chrome Extensions:

• One-click download functionality

• Works across multiple YouTube videos

• No website to visit

• Fast and reliable

• Multiple format options for transcript export

Disadvantages of Chrome Extensions:

• Only works in Chrome or Chrome-based browsers

• Requires installation

• Depends on extension maintenance by developers

Method 4: Using Descript for Professional Transcription

If you need more advanced features like editing transcripts while editing audio or video, Descript offers a professional approach.

How Descript Works for YouTube Transcripts:

Step 1: Sign Up for Descript

Create a free Descript account. The free tier gives you some transcription minutes to start.

Step 2: Import YouTube Video

Use Descript to import a YouTube video by pasting the video link. Descript will automatically transcribe the video.

Step 3: Edit Transcript Alongside Video

The unique feature of Descript is that you can edit the transcript as text, and the audio or video will edit automatically. This is perfect for content creators who want to repurpose video content.

Step 4: Export Your Transcript

Export the transcript in various formats including SRT files for subtitles, plain text, or continue working within Descript's platform.

Why Use Descript:

• Professional-grade accuracy

• Edit video by editing transcript

• Multiple export formats

• Great for content creators

• AI-powered speech recognition

Best for: Content creators, video editors, and podcasters who want to repurpose content.

Method 5: Using Google Docs Voice Typing for YouTube Transcripts

While not the most direct method, Google Docs Voice Typing can help you transcribe YouTube audio in real-time.

How to Use Google Docs for YouTube Transcription:

Step 1: Open Google Docs

Create a new Google Doc and open it in your browser.

Step 2: Enable Voice Typing

Go to Tools and select “Voice Typing.” A microphone icon will appear on your screen.

Step 3: Play YouTube Video

Open your YouTube video in another tab and start playing it.

Step 4: Click Microphone and Record

In Google Docs, click the microphone icon and let it record the audio from your YouTube video. Make sure your audio settings allow this.

Step 5: Edit and Download

Once complete, you can edit the automatically generated transcript and download it as a document.

Note: This method works best for videos with clear audio and may not capture all technical terms accurately.

How to Make a Script from YouTube Video

Creating a full script or transcript from a YouTube video serves many purposes. Here are the complete steps for turning your video content into usable script format.

Step 1: Choose Your Extraction Method

Decide which method works best for your needs – using YouTube built-in transcripts, online tools, or professional software.

Step 2: Extract the Full Transcript

Use your chosen method to get the complete text transcript of YouTube video content.

Step 3: Copy or Download the Transcript

Save your extracted transcript as a text file that you can edit and modify.

Step 4: Edit for Clarity

Remove filler words, fix any transcription errors, and improve readability. Most automatic transcriptions are about 85 to 90 percent accurate, so review carefully.

Step 5: Format Your Script

Add proper punctuation, paragraph breaks, and formatting. Organize the content logically.

Step 6: Add Timestamps

If needed, keep the timestamps to reference specific moments in the original video.

Step 7: Export and Use

Save your final script in the format you need – DOCX, PDF, TXT, or SRT for subtitles.

Can You Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos Without Paying

Yes, you can absolutely get transcripts of YouTube videos completely free. Here are all the free methods available to extract video transcript from YouTube without spending any money.

Free Methods to Get YouTube Transcripts:

Using YouTubes built-in transcript feature is always free and available on any video with captions. This is the most straightforward option that requires no tools or sign-ups.

Online transcript tools like YouTube-Transcript.io, Mapify, NoteGPT, and Tactiq all offer completely free services without requiring payment or premium subscriptions.

Chrome extensions like YT Transcript Downloader provide free functionality without any cost. You only need to install the free extension once.

Mobile YouTube app transcripts are free to view, though copying on mobile devices is limited. Taking screenshots or manually copying text is still a free option.

Google Docs voice typing is a completely free Google service that you can use for real-time transcription.

Free vs Paid Tools Comparison:

Free tools are perfect for individuals, students, and casual users who need occasional transcripts. They typically provide good accuracy for most purposes. Paid tools offer features like bulk transcription, multiple language support, AI summarization, and professional-grade accuracy. These are better for content creators, agencies, and businesses that need regular transcription services.

Most paid tools offer a free trial or free tier so you can test them before deciding whether to upgrade.

Best Tools to Copy and Export Text from YouTube Video

When choosing a tool to copy YouTube video transcript or export text from YouTube video, consider these factors: ease of use, export formats, accuracy, and additional features.

Top YouTube Transcript Tools for Different Needs:

For Quick One-Off Transcripts: Use YouTube-Transcript.io or the built-in YouTube feature. These are fastest for grabbing a single transcript quickly.

For Content Creators: Descript is best because it allows editing video while editing the transcript text.

For Students and Researchers: NoteGPT combines transcription with note-taking and summarization features, making it ideal for study and research.

For Bulk Downloads: YouTube-Transcript.io offers bulk transcription capabilities if you need multiple transcripts.

For Multiple Language Support: HappyScribe supports over 120 languages and provides professional-quality transcripts.

For Chrome Users: YT Transcript Downloader extension is fastest for regular YouTube transcript downloads.

For Live Meetings Too: Tactiq works for both YouTube videos and live meeting transcription, so one tool handles multiple needs.

For AI Summaries: NoteGPT and YouTube-Transcript.io both offer AI-powered summary generation alongside full transcripts.

Step-by-Step Guide: Create Transcript from a YouTube Video

This is the complete walkthrough for creating and saving a transcript from any YouTube video.

Step 1: Select Your YouTube Video

Find the YouTube video you want to transcribe. Verify that it has captions enabled by looking for the CC button on the video player.

Step 2: Choose Your Method

Decide whether you will use the built-in YouTube feature, an online tool, a browser extension, or professional software.

Step 3: Access the Transcript

For built-in transcripts: Click “Show Transcript” below the video. For online tools: Copy the YouTube URL and paste it into the tool website. For extensions: Click the download button added by your extension.

Step 4: Copy the Text Transcript of YouTube Video

Select all transcript text and copy it. Use Ctrl+C or Command+C to copy.

Step 5: Paste into Your Document

Open a text editor, Google Doc, or Word document. Paste the transcript using Ctrl+V or Command+V.

Step 6: Clean Up the Format

Remove extra line breaks and formatting. Most transcripts paste with awkward spacing that needs adjustment.

Step 7: Proof Read for Accuracy

Review the text for errors. Automatic transcription typically catches 85 to 90 percent accurately, so check for mistakes, especially with technical terms or names.

Step 8: Save Your File

Save your transcript in your preferred format – TXT, DOCX, PDF, or SRT depending on your needs.

Time Required: The entire process typically takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on video length and your chosen method.

Related Methods and Tips for YouTube Transcripts

How to Open Transcript in YouTube

To open transcript in YouTube on desktop, simply look below the video player for the three-dot menu. Click it and select “Show Transcript.” On mobile, tap the “…More” button in the description and select “Show Transcript” from the options.

How to View Transcript Without Watching Full Video

This is one of the biggest advantages of having transcripts available. You can read through the text version in just a few minutes instead of watching a full video. This saves significant time while still getting all the information.

How to Export Text from YouTube Video

To export text from YouTube video, use an online tool or browser extension that offers download functionality. Most tools allow you to download as TXT or other formats. Built-in YouTube transcripts must be copied and pasted manually into a document for export.

Tips for Getting Better Transcripts

Use videos with clear audio and professional production for better accuracy. Background noise affects transcription quality significantly. Check that the video has captions enabled before attempting transcription. Some videos have incorrect or incomplete captions which affects transcript quality. For technical content, manually review and correct technical terms that automatic transcription may miss. Multiple language videos may require language selection to get accurate transcripts in your preferred language.

Frequently Asked Questions About YouTube Transcripts

What is a YouTube Transcript?

A YouTube transcript is the complete written text of all dialogue and audio content in a video. It serves as a searchable text version of the video that allows quick reference, accessibility, and content repurposing.

Can I Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos?

Yes, you can get transcripts from virtually any YouTube video that has closed captions enabled. The video creator must have enabled captions for transcripts to be available.

How Do I Get Transcripts from YouTube Videos?

Use the built-in YouTube Show Transcript feature, online transcript tools, browser extensions, or professional transcription software. All methods are simple and most are completely free.

How Do I Get a Transcript on YouTube?

On desktop: Click the three dots below the video and select “Show Transcript.” On mobile: Tap the “…More” button and select “Show Transcript.”

How Do I Transcribe a YouTube Video?

Transcribing means creating a written version of the audio. Use any transcript extraction method to convert video audio into text format automatically.

Can You Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos for Free?

Yes, YouTube provides free built-in transcripts for most videos with captions. Additionally, many free online tools and extensions offer transcript downloads at no cost.

How to Get Transcripts of YouTube Videos Without Paying?

Use the free built-in YouTube transcript feature, free online tools like YouTube-Transcript.io, free browser extensions, or Google Docs voice typing. All these methods are completely free.

How Do I Copy a YouTube Video Transcript?

Click “Show Transcript,” select all the text, copy it with Ctrl+C or Command+C, and paste it into any document using Ctrl+V or Command+V. Use Ctrl+Shift+V on Windows or Command+Shift+V on Mac to paste without formatting.

Is There a Way to Extract Video Transcript from YouTube?

Yes, multiple ways exist to extract video transcript from YouTube. Built-in transcripts, online tools, chrome extensions, and professional software all allow you to extract YouTube transcripts quickly and easily.

What Tools Can Help Me Make Script from YouTube Video?

Descript, HappyScribe, NoteGPT, YouTube-Transcript.io, Mapify, Tactiq, and YT Transcript Downloader all help create script from YouTube video content.