Best way to sync subtitles in VLC media player

Yes, no kidding!

Today I will share a very simple but effective tip for the best way to sync subtitles in VLC media player under 5 seconds. Although most of the subtitles you find online are in sync but sometimes you might not find a perfect sub for your favorite Movie or TV episode and it can get irritating when the subtitle you have is not in sync with the audio/video of the file.

“If you are a movie buff, you need to learn this trick! ”— Anonymous :P

Lame old-school method:

Super slow and boring :(

I am assuming you guys already know about the painful method of digging into Tools > Track Synchronization > Subtitle delay to correct the synchronization. Trust me, it’s boring, slow and time-taking approach as it is purely static and you have to hit Refresh icon again and again to show the changes. It is not very accurate and take multiple tries to achieve the perfect sync.

Well, if you still do it, please don’t and read on for the best approach.

Best way to sync subtitles in VLC:

Well all you need to remember is the key Ctrl, H, J, K on the keyboard. Now follow the steps below:

#1. Press Ctrl+H - When you hear the dialog(audio).

#2. Press Ctrl+J - When the respective subtitle for that dialog appears.

#3. Press Ctrl+K - To sync the changes and correct the subtitle delay immediately.

Protip: Replace Ctrl with Shift if you are using Linux.

See the following example to understand the same, click thumbnail to open up the gallery mode!

That’s all and you are set. Grab some popcorn and enjoy your video. With a little practice you can apply this and sync subtitles in your VLC player in less than 5 seconds to any video. Enjoy ;)