Both open and closed captions provide a textual representation of video audio, but they serve different purposes and have distinct usability features.
Open captions are permanently embedded into a video, making them consistently visible whenever the video plays. Being a part of the video image itself, they can't be turned off by the viewer.
In contrast, closed captions can be toggled on or off based on the viewer's preference. Unlike open captions, they aren't hard-coded into the video. Instead, they exist as a separate track, allowing players or platforms to display them as needed.
Subtitles, while similar in concept, primarily focus on translating spoken dialogue for viewers who might not be familiar with the video's primary language. They operate on the assumption that the viewer can hear the video but needs textual support for understanding the dialogue.
When choosing among these options, it's essential to consider both your audience's needs and the platforms where your content will be showcased. Each option offers a unique way to enhance accessibility and engagement, depending on the context.