The year 2025 marked a significant turning point for AI dictation applications, which experienced a major surge in popularity and functionality. While dictation apps have existed for many years, their previous iterations were often hampered by slow performance and inaccuracies, particularly when users did not speak with specific accents or articulate clearly. However, recent advancements in large language models (LLMs) and sophisticated speech-to-text technologies have dramatically improved these systems. These enhancements allow apps to better decipher speech, retain contextual understanding for proper text formatting, and incorporate features for automatic text formatting, removal of filler words, and ignoring minor speech fumbles. The result is transcribed text that requires significantly fewer edits, making dictation a much more viable and efficient method for content creation. With the widespread enthusiasm for AI, the market has seen a proliferation of dozens of such applications, each offering unique features and pricing models.

Among the leading dictation apps, Wispr Flow stands out as a well-funded option allowing users to add custom words and instructions. It offers native applications for MacOS, Windows, and iOS, with an Android version currently under development. Users can customize transcription styles, choosing from "formal," "casual," and "very casual" settings to suit different writing contexts like personal messages, professional work, or emails. When integrated with vibe coding tools such as Cursor, Wispr Flow can automatically recognize variables or tag files within chats. The app provides a generous free tier, allowing up to 2,000 words per month on desktop versions and 1,000 words per month on iOS. For unlimited transcription, subscription plans begin at $15 per month.

Willow positions itself as a significant time-saver, particularly for individuals who prefer speaking over typing. Beyond standard features like automatic editing and formatting, Willow uniquely leverages large language models to generate substantial chunks of text from just a few dictated words. A key differentiating factor for Willow is its strong emphasis on privacy; all transcripts are stored locally on the user's device, and users have the option to opt out of model training. It also supports custom vocabulary, enabling the app to adapt to specific industry jargon or local dialects. Willow offers a free tier of 2,000 words per month on its desktop app. Individual subscription plans, starting at $15 per month, provide unlimited dictation and allow the app to learn and remember the user's personal writing style.

For users prioritizing privacy above all, Monologue offers the distinct advantage of downloading its AI model for local device transcription, completely bypassing cloud data transmission. Furthermore, Monologue allows users to customize the tone of voice according to the applications it is used with. The app provides 1,000 words per month for free, with subscription costs set at $10 per month or $100 annually. As a unique incentive, top users of the app may receive a special "Monokey," a limited-edition device designed to integrate seamlessly with Monologue for voice-to-text input, playfully suggesting an end to traditional keyboards.

Superwhisper primarily functions as a dictation app but extends its capabilities to transcribe from existing audio or video files. It empowers users with the flexibility to choose and download various AI models, including its proprietary models with differing speeds and accuracy, as well as NVIDIA’s Parakeet speech recognition models. The app also supports custom prompts to guide the output and seamlessly integrates processed and unprocessed transcripts with the system keyboard. Basic voice-to-text functionality is free, and users can test Pro features like translation and transcription for 15 minutes. The paid tier enables the use of personal AI API keys and allows plugging in both cloud and local models without any usage caps. Pricing includes a monthly plan at $8.49, an annual plan at $84.99, and a lifetime subscription for $249.99.

VoiceTypr takes a distinct offline-first, no-subscription approach, relying exclusively on local models for transcription. It further supports the open-source community by providing a GitHub repository for users who wish to host and run the application themselves. VoiceTypr boasts support for over 99 languages and is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. A three-day free trial is available, after which users can purchase a lifetime license: $35 for one device, $56 for two devices, or $98 for four devices.

Another Y-Combinator-backed entrant, Aqua, is a voice typing client available for Windows and MacOS, distinguished by its claim of being one of the fastest tools in its category in terms of latency. Beyond handling grammar and punctuation, Aqua offers an innovative autofill feature where users can dictate phrases like “my address” to have the app automatically input their complete address. The app also offers its own speech-to-text API for integration with other applications. Its free tier provides 1,000 words per month, while paid plans, starting from $8 per month (billed annually), unlock unlimited words and support for 800 custom dictionary values.

For those seeking a free and accessible option, Handy is an open-source transcription tool compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux. While it is quite basic and lacks extensive customization options, it serves as an excellent starting point for individuals looking to incorporate voice input without financial commitment. The app includes a simple settings menu that allows users to toggle push-to-talk functionality and customize the hotkey for activating transcription.

Rounding out the selection is Typeless, another app featuring a high free word count. The company asserts a strong commitment to privacy, stating that it does not retain any user data or use it for model training. Typeless also provides helpful suggestions for improved sentence structure if a user fumbles during dictation. The free tier allows for up to 4,000 words per week (approximately 16,000 words per month). A paid subscription, priced at $12 per month (billed annually), unlocks unlimited words and grants access to forthcoming new features. Typeless is available exclusively for Windows and MacOS.