Whisper
Whisper: offline speech-to-text dictation for Mac, Windows and Linux.
Last verified:
What is Whisper?
Whisper is a desktop dictation app for Mac, Windows, and Linux. You hold a key, speak, and the text goes into whatever program you have open, with speech converted to text on your own computer. It also removes filler words and repeated phrases and adds punctuation and paragraphs. It is aimed at individual professionals and teams, including practices, and is sold as a yearly license.
Whisper pricing
Pricing model: Paid
$39 per year for 1 device; each extra device adds $29 per year. Team pricing is available.
Whisper pros
- Works in any app you can type in, since text is inserted wherever the cursor is
- Audio is processed on the computer and never uploaded; works offline once the speech model is downloaded
- Cleans up speech automatically by removing ums, repetitions, and adding punctuation and capitalization
- Supports 99+ languages, including switching languages mid-sentence
Whisper cons
- Optional translation and AI text cleanup require the user's own API key and a cloud service, and are off by default
- Supported platforms are limited to Apple Silicon Macs, Windows 10/11, and Ubuntu 22.04+
- Licensed per year; the default plan auto-renews at $39 per year unless the user chooses the no-auto-renew option
Frequently asked questions about Whisper
Does my voice go anywhere?
No. Speech is turned into text on the computer and audio is never uploaded. The app contacts the server only to download speech models, check the license key, and look for updates.
Does it work without internet?
Yes, once the speech model is downloaded it works without internet, including on a plane.
Which computers are supported?
Mac with Apple Silicon (M1-M4), Windows 10 and 11, and Linux (Ubuntu 22.04 or newer).
Does it need a dedicated GPU?
A dedicated GPU helps but is not required; CPU-optimized models are also available.
What languages are supported?
Whisper supports 99+ languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and Chinese.