Before buying a DVD or Blu-ray, check the audio and subtitle listings separately. English audio means you can hear an English-language track. English subtitles mean you can read English on screen. A disc can include either option or both, depending on the edition.
Audio and subtitles are separate options
An audio track determines the language you hear. A subtitle track displays text over the picture. If you prefer to hear a film in its original language and read English, look for both the original-language audio track and English subtitles. If you prefer an English dub, check that English appears under Audio.
What does English SDH mean?
SDH stands for subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. An English SDH track typically includes spoken dialogue as well as cues such as speaker names, a doorbell ringing or music playing. If those cues matter to you, look for English SDH specifically. A listing that only says English subtitles leaves those details unspecified.
Check each season or film in a box set
For a multi-season series or movie collection, check whether the listing describes the language options for the whole set or only part of it. If you need subtitles for every season, or for bonus interviews as well as the main feature, check those details before ordering. Comparing editions is easier once you know exactly which track you need.
Playback compatibility is a separate check
Subtitle language and region coding describe different things. A region-free Blu-ray still requires a player that supports Blu-ray discs. For help checking playback compatibility, see our guide to region-free DVDs and Blu-rays.
Questions before ordering?
Browse our DVDs or Blu-rays and check the individual listing. If you need help confirming an audio or subtitle option, send us the product link through the chat button or email [email protected].