Why is there no transcript button on some videos?

The uploader may have disabled captions, or YouTube has not generated auto-captions yet.

Can I copy timestamps with the text?

YouTube's show transcript panel includes timestamps. Export SRT or VTT from a transcript tool for timed formats.

How to Copy a YouTube Transcript

Copying a transcript is useful for quotes, research, accessibility, and content repurposing. You can use YouTube’s built-in panel or a dedicated extractor when you need clean text fast.

Method 1: Copy from YouTube (desktop)

Open the video on youtube.com.
Click More (⋯) below the player → Show transcript.
In the transcript panel, toggle Toggle timestamps if you only want plain text.
Select all text, then copy with Ctrl+C / Cmd+C.

This works when the video has published captions or auto-generated subtitles.

Method 2: Use the YouTube Transcript Extractor

When you need multiple languages or quick clipboard export:

Copy the video URL.
Open the YouTube Transcript Extractor.
Paste the link and click Get transcript.
Choose a language track if several are available.
Click Copy to clipboard.

The tool runs in your browser and displays whichever caption tracks YouTube exposes for that video.

Method 3: Copy on mobile

The YouTube mobile app transcript UI varies by version. If Show transcript is unavailable:

Copy the video link.
Open the transcript extractor in your mobile browser.
Copy the text from the results panel.

Generated vs. creator captions

Auto-generated captions may contain errors, especially for names and jargon. Creator-uploaded captions are usually more accurate. Always proofread before publishing quotes.

Respect usage rights

Transcripts are part of the video’s creative work. Quoting with attribution for commentary or research is common, but republishing entire scripts may require permission.

Next step: download timed files

Need SRT or VTT for editing? Read How to Download a YouTube Transcript.