In various respects, 2025 marked the real emergence of AI dictation applications. While dictation software has existed for several years, its previous iterations were often slow and imprecise — particularly if one did not adhere to specific accents and clear enunciation.
However, developments in large language models (LLMs) and speech-to-text algorithms have significantly enhanced the ability of these systems to interpret spoken language with improved contextual understanding to format the written text. Developers have also integrated functionalities that automatically format text, eliminate filler words, and disregard mistakes, resulting in text that requires minimal revisions.
With the increasing prevalence of AI technologies, numerous such applications have emerged in the marketplace. Consequently, we have compiled a selection of the most effective and beneficial dictation apps of this year.
Wispr Flow
Wispr Flow is a well-supported AI dictation tool that allows users to input custom vocabulary and instructions for dictation. It is available as native applications on macOS, Windows, and iOS, with an Android version currently in development.
The application enables you to tailor the transcription process by selecting from “formal,” “casual,” and “very casual” writing styles for various contexts, including personal messages, professional work, and emails. Furthermore, if you utilize vibe-coding tools like Cursor, a feature can be activated to automatically identify variables or tag files in conversation.
You can dictate up to 2,000 words each month without charge on any desktop version, while the iOS version permits 1,000 words monthly at no cost. Subscription options provide unlimited transcription capabilities, beginning at $15 per month.
Willow
Willow promotes itself as a significant time-saver for individuals who prefer not to type. In addition to standard functionalities like automatic editing and formatting, it features a capability that leverages large language models to produce substantial blocks of text from just a few dictated phrases.
Willow also takes a more privacy-centric approach to AI-enhanced note-taking by storing all transcripts directly on your device, allowing users to opt out of model training if they wish. It also supports custom vocabulary additions to adapt to industry-specific language or local dialects.
Willow allows users to dictate 2,000 words per month for free via its desktop application. Individual subscription plans commence at $15 monthly, providing unlimited dictation and facilitating the app’s capacity to remember your unique writing style.
Monologue
For those prioritizing privacy, Monologue offers the option to download its model for on-device transcriptions, bypassing the need to transmit data to the cloud. Additionally, users can personalize the tone of voice to align with the applications they utilize alongside it.
Monologue allows for dictation of 1,000 words per month at no charge, with subscriptions available for $10 monthly or $100 annually. For frequent users, the company provides a unique Monokey to complement the app.
Superwhisper
Superwhisper primarily functions as a dictation application but also offers transcription services for audio or video files. The app empowers users to select and download AI models, including its own varying in speed and accuracy, as well as Nvidia’s Parakeet speech-recognition models.
It also allows users to create custom prompts to direct the output. You can conveniently view both processed and unprocessed transcripts integrated with the system keyboard.
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The fundamental voice-to-text functionality is free, and you can explore Pro features such as translation and transcription for 15 minutes. The paid tier grants you access to employ your own AI API keys, plugging in both cloud-based and local models without limitations.
The monthly subscription costs $8.49, the annual plan is priced at $84.99, or you can opt for a lifetime subscription at $249.99.
VoiceTypr
The VoiceTypr application adopts an offline-first, subscription-free model, permitting you to utilize local models for transcription. A GitHub repository is also available for those interested in hosting and managing the open-source version independently. VoiceTypr accommodates over 99 languages and operates on both Mac and Windows platforms.
The app provides a three-day free trial, after which you can purchase a lifetime license. Prices are set at $35 for a single device, $56 for two, and $98 for four devices.
Aqua
Aqua is yet another Y Combinator-funded voice-typing client for Windows and macOS, touted as one of the swiftest tools in its category regarding latency.
In addition to managing grammar and punctuation, Aqua enables users to autofill text by dictating phrases — for example, saying “my address” will prompt Aqua to type in your address.
The application also features its own speech-to-text API for integration with other applications.
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The free version allows for 1,000 words per month, while payment plans commence at $8 per month (with annual billing) and provide unlimited words along with 800 custom dictionary entries.
Handy
Handy is a free, open-source transcription tool compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux. Though the application is quite basic and lacks extensive customization, it serves as a solid option for those wishing to begin using their voice more frequently without incurring costs.
The application includes a simple settings menu that allows for toggling push-to-talk and modifying the hotkey that activates the transcription function.
Typeless
Typeless presents itself as another app in this sector with a generous free word limit. The company asserts that it does not store any data or utilize it for model training. Typeless also offers improved sentence suggestions for users who may have misphrased a line.
The application permits dictation of up to 4,000 words each week (approximately 16,000 words monthly) under its free tier. A subscription can be purchased for $12 monthly (billed annually) to unlock unlimited words and access new features. Typeless is currently available exclusively for Windows and macOS.