Stop the Scroll: Why Burned-In Captions Increase Social Media Views
Most people scrolling through Instagram or LinkedIn aren't reaching for their volume button. They're in a meeting, on public transport, or simply prefer the quiet. The result? Videos autoplay silently, and if your message relies solely on audio, it vanishes in half a second.
Recent data highlights just how dominant this habit has become. On LinkedIn, around 80% of videos play without sound, with some reports putting the figure as high as 85% for professional feeds where discretion matters. Instagram Reels show more variation—some internal insights suggest up to 80% sound-on for engaging content, while others point to roughly 20-50% silent viewing depending on the format and audience. Across platforms like Facebook (still hovering near 85% mute) and even mobile-first environments, the pattern is clear: sound-off is the default for the majority of casual scrolls.
This isn't just a minor quirk—it's a core reason so many videos get skipped. Creators often hear the same complaint: "People scroll past our videos because they are on mute." Without any visual clue about what's being said, viewers have zero incentive to tap the sound icon or linger. That's where burned-in captions (also called open or hard subtitles) change the game.
Unlike closed captions that users toggle on, burned-in captions are permanently embedded in the video itself. They appear automatically, styled and positioned by the creator for maximum readability—bold, large, high-contrast text that doesn't rely on platform settings. Studies consistently show this approach drives real results:
Videos with captions can see up to 80% higher completion rates, as viewers grasp the content immediately without needing audio.
One analysis of YouTube content found captioned videos earned 7-13% more lifetime views, with the biggest lift in the first two weeks after upload.
Brands using subtitles report stronger retention because the text reinforces the visual story, pulling viewers through even when silent.
The psychology is straightforward. Captions reduce cognitive friction—viewers don't miss key points if they glance away or can't hear. They also make content more inclusive for non-native speakers, those with hearing challenges, or anyone multitasking. When someone catches a compelling line in text within the first frame, they're far more likely to stop scrolling, watch longer, and engage.
Professional environments amplify this. On LinkedIn, where users often browse during work hours, silent viewing is practically mandatory. A video without burned-in captions risks being invisible to decision-makers who won't risk turning up the volume. Add clear, concise on-screen text, and the same clip suddenly works in boardrooms, commutes, or coffee shops alike.
For creators targeting global reach, burned-in captions open another layer of opportunity. They boost accessibility across languages when done right, and platforms reward content that keeps people watching longer—leading to better algorithmic push.
If you're serious about stopping the scroll, prioritize burned-in captions in your workflow. They're not an afterthought; they're a strategic edge in a sound-off world.
For teams handling multilingual content, partnering with specialists makes this even easier. Artlangs Translation, with expertise in over 230 languages, has spent years focusing on translation services, video localization, short drama subtitles, game localization, short-form dramas, audiobooks with multilingual voiceovers, and data annotation/transcription. Their track record includes numerous high-quality projects that help creators deliver seamless, culturally adapted videos that perform across borders—ensuring your message lands no matter the language or platform.
