Convert PGS Subtitles to SRT Format
or drag and drop
About PGS
PGS (Presentation Graphic Stream) is an image-based subtitle format used exclusively for Blu-ray discs. Unlike text-based formats like SRT, PGS subtitles are stored as a sequence of bitmap images that are overlaid on the video. This means they can have any font, style, or color imaginable, but it also means they are not text-searchable and cannot be easily edited.
About SRT
SRT (SubRip Text) is the most common and widely supported subtitle format. It's a simple plain text file that contains sequential numbers for each subtitle, start and end timestamps, and the subtitle text itself. Its simplicity and universal compatibility make it the go-to choice for most web videos, streaming platforms, and local media players.
PGS vs SRT
| Feature | PGS | SRT |
|---|---|---|
| Styling Support | true | false |
| Positioning Support | true | false |
| Animation Support | false | false |
| Learning Curve | expert | beginner |
| Quality Rating | 5 | 4 |
| Patent Status | proprietary | open format |
| Year Introduced | 2006 | 2000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit a PGS subtitle file?
No, you cannot edit the text in a PGS file directly because it's a series of images, not text. To 'edit' a PGS file, you would need to use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software to convert the images back into a text-based format like SRT, edit the text, and then optionally convert it back, though this is a complex and often error-prone process.
Why do Blu-rays use image-based subtitles?
Image-based subtitles guarantee that the text will be displayed exactly as the designer intended, with specific fonts and styles, on any certified Blu-ray player. This avoids issues with players not having the correct fonts installed or not supporting certain text rendering features.
Can I add colors or change fonts in an SRT file?
No, the SRT format does not support any styling. It is a plain text format. If you need styling, you should use a more advanced format like VTT or ASS.
What does 'hearing impaired' mean in SRT files?
Subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing (SDH) often include descriptions of non-verbal sounds, like '[door slams]' or '[music playing]'. While SRT can contain this text, VTT is often better for more structured accessibility features.
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