How to Change VLC Subtitle Font Color?

Changing the font color of subtitles in VLC media player is a straightforward process that allows you to improve readability and customize your viewing experience. By navigating through the application’s preferences, you can alter the default white text to any color of your choice, adjust the font style, and modify the background effects. This step-by-step guide covers how to change subtitle colors on both desktop (Windows/macOS) and mobile versions of VLC.

Changing Subtitle Color on Windows and macOS

Modifying the subtitle appearance on a desktop computer requires accessing the simple preferences menu. Follow these steps to change the color:

  1. Open VLC Media Player on your computer.
  2. Click on Tools in the top menu bar (on macOS, click VLC in the menu bar) and select Preferences. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + P (Windows) or Cmd + , (macOS).
  3. In the Preferences window, click on the Subtitles / OSD tab at the top.
  4. Locate the Subtitle effects section.
  5. Click the drop-down menu next to Text color and select your preferred color (e.g., Yellow, Cyan, Red).
  6. Click the Save button at the bottom to apply the changes.

If you are currently playing a video, you may need to restart VLC or stop and replay the video for the new font color to take effect.

Changing Subtitle Color on Android and iOS

If you are using the VLC mobile app, the subtitle settings are handled directly within the application’s media settings.

  1. Launch the VLC app on your mobile device and start playing a video.
  2. Tap the screen to bring up the player controls and select the Extra settings icon (three dots).
  3. Tap on Subtitle settings or the Subtitles icon.
  4. Select Font color and choose your desired color from the available options.

Advanced Customization Options

Beyond changing the basic text color, VLC provides additional options in the “Subtitle effects” menu to further enhance visibility: