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Top Talk-to-Text Software: The 5 Best Tools for Converting Speech-to-Text

James Hogan
James Hogan Originally published Oct 28, 24, updated Feb 05, 25

In this modern age, thanks to advancements in talk-to-text software, people no longer need to type manually to get their work done. This technology lets users speak to their devices. The devices convert the speech to text. It makes writing emails, documents, or even books faster and more efficient. For instance, Google Docs' voice typing has changed how we write. It lets us focus more on ideas and less on typing.

With the rise of talk-to-text software, many software options have emerged. Each has unique features and benefits. As speech-to-text software becomes more common, choosing the one that fits your needs can be tricky. This article will compare some top talk-to-text software. It will help you find the best tool for your work, productivity, or creative projects.

In this article

Part 1. Why Do You Need Talk-to-Text Software

As talk-to-text technology grows in popularity, it is changing the way we do tasks that used to require typing. But what exactly is talk-to-text software?

Also popularly known as speech-to-text, this software converts spoken words into written text. The software uses advanced algorithms to process sound waves. The software identifies words and transcribes them in real-time. The goal is to improve efficiency. Eliminating typing is valuable in work, creative, and everyday tasks.

Key benefits that you can get from talk-to-text software, such as:

  • Faster Transcriptions: Converting speech to text is quicker than typing.
  • Increased Productivity: Talk-to-text software saves typing time. You can then focus on your ideas and content.
  • Hands-Free Convenience: It's ideal for multitasking or when typing is inconvenient.
  • Cost-Efficiency: Saves time and money compared to hiring a transcription service.
  • Improved Accuracy: Modern speech-to-text software has high accuracy. It minimizes transcription errors and reduces the need for editing.

After we’ve talked about the benefits of talk-to-text software, the next section will show you the best speech-to-text software. It will list its key features and find the best one for you.

Part 2. Comparison Table of the Top Speech-to-Text Software

Before exploring the best talk-to-text software, we found that each has unique features that boost productivity. However, to find the perfect talk-to-text software for your needs, some important factors must be considered. Whether you're using it for work, personal projects, or accessibility reasons, these key elements can help you decide which tool is the best fit for you:

  • Real-Time Support
  • Languages Supported
  • Accuracy
  • Customization Options
  • Free or Paid Plans

Comparison Table of Top Speech-to-Text Tools:

Tools

Real-Time
Support

Languages
Supported
Accuracy Customization
Options
Free or
Paid Plans
Wondershare Filmora Support 27+ Languages High Customizable Captions Paid, with a free trial
Apple Dictation Support Over 30 languages Moderate Basic formatting commands Free (built-in for macOS)
Otter.ai Support Multiple Languages High Speaker ID, collaborative Free & Paid Plans
Speechnotes Pro Support English and more Moderate Custom shortcuts, punctuation Free & Paid (Pro)

TalkType

Support Multiple Languages High Custom vocabulary, commands Paid

Part 3. The Best Speech-to-Text Software

When it comes to choosing the best Speech-to-Text software, you need to check out the key features that each tool has. Each tool has unique features, designed to boost productivity and simplify the transcription process. So, it's time we explore the best speech-to-text, the list is below

1. Wondershare Filmora

Wondershare Filmora, primarily known as a video editing tool, also offers a powerful speech-to-text transcription feature. This tool converts audio or spoken dialogue into text in one click. It helps you add captions or subtitles to videos. Filmora's speech-to-text function is intuitive. This is for creators who are looking to talk to text software and want to automate text without manual input.

wondershare filmora speech to text

Filmora Key features:

  • Filmora supports 27 languages for transcription. This makes it accessible to global users. It ensures creators can easily work across regions.
  • It supports the import of external files, including the SRT format.
  • Filmora's transcription tool uses advanced AI for accurate captions. This eliminates the need for manual corrections.
  • The speech-to-text feature is built into the video editor. It lets users generate subtitles or captions while editing, without external software.
  • You can customize the text style, timing, and look directly in the software.

Compatibility: FIlmora is available on both Windows and Mac.

2. Apple Dictation

If you are a regular Apple user, you can try this talk-to-text software by Apple. Apple Dictation is a built-in speech-to-text tool on Mac. It converts spoken words into text in various apps. This feature allows users to dictate emails and messages without typing. This is a useful feature for boosting productivity. The tool also supports enhanced dictation, which provides real-time transcription even when offline.

apple dictation tools

Apple Dictation Key features:

  • With enhanced dictation, you can transcribe speech without an internet connection, a unique feature that ensures functionality anywhere.
  • Apple Dictation allows for the use of punctuation and commands.
  • It supports many languages and dialects, so it's useful for worldwide users.

Compatibility: Available on macOS devices.

3. Otter.ai

Another speech recognition software you can try is Otter.ai. Otter.ai is a top AI tool for transcribing speech to text. It does so with high accuracy. It’s widely used for meetings, lectures, interviews, and other scenarios where note-taking is essential. Otter.ai offers real-time transcription. It is ideal for professionals and students who need quick, reliable transcripts.

otter ai speech to text

Otter.ai Key features:

  • Otter automatically captures and assigns action items from the meeting. It has the full context of the discussion.
  • Automatically detects and labels different speakers.
  • Integrates seamlessly with Zoom, Google Meet, and other conferencing tools.
  • It allows collaboration tools to share transcripts, add comments, and edit transcripts with team members.

Compatibility: Available on web browsers (online), iOS and Android apps.

4. Speechnotes Pro

If you prefer an online voice-to-text program, try Speechnotes Pro. It doesn't require installing anything on your device. Speechnotes Pro is a user-friendly speech-to-text tool. It transcribes quickly and accurately. It's great for writing notes, documents, and emails. It has an easy-to-use interface. Its simplicity and efficiency make it popular. It's ideal for those who seek a simple transcription solution.

speechnotes pro speech to text tools

Speechnotes Pro Key features:

  • It offers full functionality without requiring an account, providing users with instant access to the tool.
  • Speechnotes Pro saves your transcriptions as you dictate. It has cloud backup options to prevent losing important notes.
  • You can create personalized voice commands for repetitive phrases.
  • It lets users add punctuation with voice commands, like "comma" or "period," for better transcription.

Compatibility: Web-based tool and Android app.

5. TalkType

TalkType is a dedicated talk-to-text software designed for professionals who need fast and accurate transcription. It aims for a perfect dictation experience. You can dictate documents, emails, or notes into your computer.

talktype tools

TalkType Key features:

  • TalkType delivers precise transcription, even in noisy environments.
  • It offers custom vocabulary, you can add industry-specific or custom words to the dictionary.
  • TalkType provides real-time feedback, displaying spoken words on the screen instantly.

Compatibility: TalkType is available on Windows and macOS.

Author’s Pick:

Wondershare Filmora stands out as the best speech-to-text tool due to its advanced, AI-driven transcription feature, offering high accuracy and support for multiple languages and accents. It fits perfectly into video editing. It lets creators transcribe spoken content with minimal effort. The tool provides customizable captions. Users can adjust the font, size, and timing to match their video style.

A step-by-step how to do it:

Step 1. Launch Filmora on your desktop. Then, start a new project or open an existing project with the video or audio you want to transcribe.

Step 2. Click "Import" to upload the audio or video file. Once the media is imported, drag it to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 3. Access the Speech-to-Text Tool

Method 1: Select an audio asset in the timeline, click Tools in the top menu bar, and click Audio > Speech to Text.

filmora speech to text tools

Method 2: Select the media on the timeline, click the >> icon in the toolbar, and select the Speech to Text option.

filmora speech to text tools method 2

Method 3: Right-click on the asset and select Speech to Text.

filmora speech to text tools method 3

Step 4. In the STT parameter setting bar, select the audio language. Then, check "automatically match to the timeline." Now, the feature supports direct transcription of bilingual subtitles. Click Generate.

filmora speech to text settings

Step 5. The task list will display the completed transcode and transcription files. The resulting files will be displayed in SRT format.

Conclusion

With today's tech advances, you can simplify your work. For example, use talk-to-text software instead of writing manually. Use it to write emails or documents, create subtitles for your videos, and many more things that you can do with these tools. However, to choose a reliable speech-to-text tool, you must consider the speed of transcriptions, languages supported, and other aspects.

We have discussed 5 top speech-to-text software programs that you can customize. Wondershare Filmora stands out as the best speech-to-text software. It has an advanced transcription feature and other supporting tools that you can check out.

James Hogan
James Hogan Feb 05, 25
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