mpv-autosub

mpv-autosub automatically downloads subtitles when opening a video if suitable subtitles are not already present.

github.com/davidde/mpv-autosub
mpv-autosub homepage screenshot

About mpv-autosub

mpv-autosub is a Lua script for the MPV media player that downloads subtitles when a video is opened, but only when suitable subtitles are not already present. It uses the Python program subliminal to perform the downloads, so subliminal must be installed separately with pip. The homepage describes the script as cross-platform for Windows, Mac and Linux, and the repository is open source under the MIT License.

Setup involves copying autosub.lua into the MPV scripts folder and setting the subliminal path in the script for your system. Subtitle languages can be changed by ISO code, with the preferred language listed first. Login credentials for subtitle providers can be added optionally. Automatic downloading can be turned off so that only hotkeys are used.

Key features

  • Downloads subtitles automatically when a video opens, if suitable ones are missing
  • Supports multiple subtitle languages, ordered by preference in the script
  • Manually triggers first or second choice language downloads with the b and n keys
  • Optional login support for subtitle provider accounts
  • Automatic downloading can be disabled so only hotkeys are used
  • Locations can be excluded from auto-downloading, or set as the only locations that auto-download
Best for: Users of the MPV media player on Windows, Mac or Linux who want subtitles fetched automatically and are comfortable installing Python tools and editing a Lua script.
Good for
  • Open source under the MIT License, so the script can be modified and adapted
  • Works without hotkeys in its default automatic mode
  • Language order and provider login can be configured
Watch out for
  • Requires Python and the subliminal tool to be installed separately
  • The subliminal path must be set manually in the script, with extra escaping on Windows
  • The author notes that correct subtitles may not be found for some niche movies or series

mpv-autosub at a glance

Type
Open-source project
Pricing
Not confirmed. Check the site
Platforms
Linux, Windows
Open source
Yes · Source code
Language
English
Last checked
Oct 6, 2026 · Online when checked
Listed
Oct 5, 2026

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mpv-autosub FAQ

What needs to be installed before using mpv-autosub?
The script uses the Python program subliminal, which is installed with pip install subliminal. autosub.lua must also be copied into the MPV scripts folder, and the subliminal path must be set in the script.
Can automatic subtitle downloading be turned off?
Yes. Setting the auto bool to false stops automatic downloading, and the hotkeys can still be used to trigger downloads manually.
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