Subtitle sync guide
How to fix Jellyfin subtitles out of sync
Jellyfin subtitles most often drift when the server transcodes or burns in the track. You can correct it from the player, or fix the underlying file.
Works on: Web · Apps · TV
Step by step
- 1
Use the player subtitle offset
In the Jellyfin web/app player, open the subtitle menu and use the “Subtitle offset” control (− / +) to shift the timing until it matches the audio.
- 2
Prefer Direct Play over transcoding
In playback settings, set the quality to the source so the server stops transcoding. Burned-in subtitles during transcoding are a common cause of drift.
- 3
Switch the subtitle delivery mode
Try selecting an external (soft) subtitle track instead of an embedded/forced one, which lets the client handle timing more reliably.
- 4
Fix the file at the source
If a particular .srt is mistimed for everyone, correct it once with the SubAlign sync tool and replace it in your library so every client plays it in sync.
Older or limited clients may not expose a subtitle offset. In that case, fixing the subtitle file itself is the most reliable solution.
Fix the subtitle file permanently
The delay in Jellyfin is only temporary. To fix the timing for good, correct the subtitle file once and it plays in sync everywhere.
Open the free sync toolJellyfin subtitle sync FAQ
Why do Jellyfin subtitles go out of sync when transcoding?
When the server transcodes the video and burns in or re-muxes the subtitles, small timing offsets can appear. Using Direct Play (matching the source quality) or an external soft subtitle track usually keeps them in sync.
How do I offset subtitles in the Jellyfin player?
Open the subtitle menu during playback and use the “Subtitle offset” −/+ control to move the captions earlier or later until they match the dialogue.
Sync subtitles in other players
Step-by-step instructions for fixing out-of-sync subtitles in the apps people use most.