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yt-fts searches YouTube channel subtitles from the command line to support full-text transcript searches.
About yt-fts
yt-fts is an open-source command-line program for full-text search of YouTube subtitles. It uses yt-dlp to download subtitles from YouTube channels or playlists and stores them in a SQLite database that can be queried from the terminal.
When you search for a word or phrase, it returns timestamped YouTube URLs that point to the matching part of the video. It also includes commands to list saved channels and videos, show transcripts, update stored subtitles, delete channels, and export transcripts. Semantic search is supported through OpenAI embeddings API, Gemini embedding API, and ChromaDB.
It suits users comfortable with the command line and pip installation who want to search spoken content across many videos in a channel. The repository notes that the project is currently abandoned.
Key features
- Search YouTube subtitles from the command line
- Download subtitles for channels or playlists
- Returns timestamped YouTube URLs for keyword matches
- Stores transcripts in searchable SQLite database
- Supports semantic search with OpenAI, Gemini and ChromaDB
- Export channel transcripts in txt or vtt format
Best for: People comfortable with the terminal who want to search spoken content across YouTube channels benefit most.
Good for
- Open-source command-line tool
- Full-text search with timestamped video links
- Handles both channels and playlists
- Includes update, list, and export commands
Watch out for
- Repository states the project is abandoned
- Requires command-line use and pip installation
- Some videos may not have subtitles enabled
yt-fts at a glance
- Category
- Social & Communities › YouTube Tools
- Type
- Open-source project
- Pricing
- Not confirmed. Check the site
- Open source
- Yes · Source code
- Language
- English
- Last checked
- Oct 5, 2026 · Online when checked
- Listed
- Oct 5, 2026
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yt-fts FAQ
What is yt-fts?
yt-fts is a command-line program that downloads YouTube channel subtitles into a SQLite database for full-text search.
How do I install yt-fts?
The repository shows installation with pip using `pip install yt-fts`.
What does a yt-fts search return?
It returns timestamped YouTube URLs that link to the video segment containing the keyword or phrase.
Does yt-fts support semantic search?
Yes, it supports semantic search via the OpenAI embeddings API, Gemini embedding API, and ChromaDB.
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