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10 best dictation apps for Android to transcribe audio to text

Published on August 27, 2023

Dictation is a niche, but important function. After all, your voice is a lot faster than typing, pretty much all the time. Your mobile is perfect for this, given its portability. Of course, you’ll need a good app to use speech-to-text. Here are the best dictation apps for Android.

The best dictation apps for Android

Google keep, google translate.

• Live Transcribe

Microsoft Translate

Speechnotes, speechtexter, dragon anywhere, dictation websites, gboard (or most keyboards).

Price: Free

Gboard is a pretty good choice for voice dictation. It has a mic icon that you press. From there, just speak your sentences, and the app types it out. You can do this in a variety of apps, including note-taking apps, emails, or other text documents. We list Gboard because it uses Google’s speech-to-text technology. It works pretty well overall. However, most keyboards have a mic option that also works. It’s a good method for voice dictation because you can use your keyboard in almost any app.

By the way, this option is even better if you have a Pixel 6 or newer Pixel phone. These devices have Assistant voice typing , which is a much more advanced version of this app’s voice-to-text feature.

Google Keep is another good solution for dictation. You do need a keyboard with the functionality as well, though. The charm of Keep is that it keeps your audio file saved while your keyboard types out the transcription as you talk. You wind up with both the original audio file and also the transcription. It’s an excellent tool for this sort of thing, as many people use dictation for notes for the most part. Google Keep is a free option. Those looking for something a bit more professional can try Evernote as well.

Google Translate is a good option for dictation. You can easily and quickly translate between many languages, and a wide variety of them work offline. You can then copy and paste the translations wherever you want. It’s an excellent option for interviews where there is a multilingual element. Every translation stays on screen until you clear it. It can be a little tedious if you need to do a lot of translating, but it gets the job done.

Live Translate

Google’s Live Transcribe is an excellent way to transcribe things. You simply talk into it, and the app puts your voice into text. It has a variety of features, mainly for accessibility. That’s what the app is for, after all. However, it does save every transcription for three days on your phone. While it’s there, you can copy and paste it to your chosen note-taking or text document app. It may not work for super long applications, but otherwise, it works surprisingly well.

Microsoft Translate is one of the better dictation apps for the same reason as Google Translate. You can conduct things like interviews and get translations if the answers are in a different language from yours. The app boasts 70 languages, a two-pane mode in case both speakers need translation, and you can copy and paste stuff from the app into another one for future reference. Google Translate is the better option, but this is a good second option if Google isn’t doing it for you.

Price: Free / $16.99 per month

Otter is one of the most popular dictation apps on mobile right now. It’s technically a voice recorder app. You record voice audio, whether it be a work meeting or a school lecture. The app then gives you the option to listen and transcribe the audio. The free version of the app supports 300 minutes per month for free. Anything more serious and you need the subscription. There are also a bunch of other features, like collaboration features, the ability to identify speakers, and more. This is easily one of the best on mobile and one of the ones we’d recommend first.

Price: Free / $2.99 per month / $22.99 once

Speechnotes is an older option, but it still works decently well. This one is good for longer dictation. It boasts unlimited, non-stop dictation until you fill up your phone storage. Some other features include Google Drive backup, offline support, and controls for punctuation. There is also a home screen widget if you need it. The app has its ups and downs, a result of being around for so long. It’s also reasonably cheap with options for both a single and subscription price tier.

SpeechTexter is one of the better free dictation apps. It’s pretty simple to use. You simply open the app, hit the mic button, and start talking. This one supports more than 70 languages, decent accuracy, a custom commands dictionary, and you can share transcriptions if you need to. There aren’t a ton of features, but it is entirely free (with ad support), so it’s unreasonable to think it’ll compete with more expensive dictation apps. It still works well, even if it’s a bit anemic on features.

Price: $15 per month / $150 per year

Dragon Anywhere is made by Nuance, and is a professional-grade speech recognition service for your mobile device. It offers fast dictation, document creation/sharing, voice editing, cloud syncing, and seamless integration with Dragon Professional desktop services. Sounds fancy? It kind of is, which is why this app has no free version. You can get a 7-day trial, but the app costs $15 a month otherwise.

There are several free services online that can dictate and transcribe voice audio. Some examples include Dictanote, Amazon Transcribe , Speechnotes , Dictation.io , and many others. The services are usually free, at least to an extent, and you can access them from your mobile browser. Your browser needs mic permission, though, so be prepared for that. During testing, it seems most of them need Google Chrome to function properly so you’ll most likely need Chrome to make this solution work.

If we missed any great dictation apps to transcribe audio to text, tell us about them in the comments. You can also click here to check out our latest Android app and game lists .

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Did you know that you can download speech-to-text apps on your Android phone ? Here's a helpful list of awesome voice-to-text apps for Android that you can check out. 

What Do Speech-to-Text Apps Do?

Speech-to-text software makes it simple and easy to convert speech into text. While it used to be regarded as a tool mostly aimed at deaf or hard of hearing individuals, the functionality has become a mainstream resource for optimizing efficiency at the office, school, and in daily life.

Speech-to-Text App vs Transcription Software

The main difference between speech-to-text apps and transcription software is that speech-to-text applications convert real-time spoken words into written text. In contrast, transcription software creates a text copy from an audio file, which requires uploading a pre-recorded audio file.

Whether you want to take notes, enjoy seamless phone conversations, send messages, or dictate on the fly, the best voice-to-text apps for Android below are ready to help.

Nagish is a free app that converts text-to-speech and speech-to-text in real time, making it easy to place and receive calls by typing and reading instead of or in addition to speaking and hearing. The calls are completely private, and the technology supports multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Hebrew, Italian, French, and Japanese. 

• Captioning is end-to-end secure, so calls are 100% private
• Voicemal transcription
• Supports iOS or Android device
• Fast and highly accurate
• Easy-to-use interface and adjustable font size
• Allows users to save and share their transcriptions
• Allows users to use their existing phone number
• Includes built-in spam and profanity filter
• Facilitates communication with automated lines
• Personalized experience with features such as personalized voices, a favorites contact list, a personal dictionary, and a quick response tool.
• Currently only available in the U.S and Canada
• Requires registration 

Caption your calls for free

Gboard is Android's default keyboard which includes a free built-in dictation feature that is easy to use by simply tapping the microphone icon on the keyboard and dictate.

• Allows you to glide type
• Lets you infuse your personality with your favorite gifs, stickers, and emojis 
• Supports different languages
• Includes the Google Translate feature
• Some users report frustration with poor speech recognition and the need to proofread messages before sending them. 
• Can sometimes struggle with accuracy, especially with accents or non-standard English

03. Dragon Anywhere

Dragon Anywhere is a professional-grade speech-to-text app for Android devices. It offers voice commands, custom vocabulary, and formatting options. The app also supports multiple languages.

• 3X faster than typing 
• Highly accurate speech recognition software
• Provides a range of formatting options, including bold, italics, and underlining
• Learns and adapts to a user's speech patterns over time
• Allows Cloud syncing and document sharing (Dropbox, Evernote, and more)
• Requires a paid subscription to access all features
• Can be slow to load at times

04. Speechnotes

Speechnotes is a free speech-to-text app that offers a simple and user-friendly interface. The app allows users to dictate while it saves the text automatically. Speechnotes supports various languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and more.

• Easy to use
• Accurate speech recognition 
• Follows Google’s privacy policies
• Allows Cloud syncing and document sharing (Google Docs)
• The free version includes ads
• May struggle with accuracy, especially with accents or non-standard English
• Limited advanced features compared to other speech-to-text apps

Ava is a speech-to-text app for people who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate with others. The app uses AI to provide high accuracy, 24/7 real-time transcription of live audio communication. 

• Can be used in classrooms, business meetings, doctor’s appointments, and more. 
• ADA complaint
• Learns and adapts to your vocabulary 

06. Transcribe - Speech to Text Transcribe

Speech to Text is another popular speech-to-text app for Android devices. Includes real-time transcription, custom vocabulary, and support for multiple languages. The app allows users to edit transcriptions and export them as text files.

• Offers highly accurate real-time transcription
• Provides a range of editing and formatting options
• Supports multiple languages
• Can be resource-intensive, especially on older devices

07. SpeechTexter

SpeechTexter is a free speech-to-text Android app that offers a simple and intuitive interface with the ability to save and share transcriptions.

• Offers a simple and intuitive interface
• Supports a wide range of languages
• Doesn't offer as many advanced features as other speech-to-text apps

08. ListNote

ListNote is a great note-taking app. The app allows you to take notes by speaking and will be saved as text. This app was primarily designed to quickly jot down your ideas and to-do list with minimal hassle, and it's also helpful to carry on the go as a communication tool. 

• Offers a simple solution to in-person communication
• Ideal for personal use
• Text notes you record are searchable, and you can import/export with other text applications.
• Includes password protection
• Free but includes ads

Notta is a speech-to-text app for transcribing audio files and video calls live or post-recording with the help of AI. This transcription software is mostly used in the workplace, the app can transcribe and summarize audio/video recordings, face-to-face meetings, and presentation demos in one space with the ability to organize your transcripts and voice notes in folders. This can be a supportive tool for deaf or hard of hearing individuals to support their integration into office communications. 

• Supports 42 languages
• Add images to a transcript.
• Automatic correction and editing while you speak.
• Multiple playback speeds.
• Offers many export formats, such as docx, srt, txt, pdf, and xlsx. 
• Syncs across multiple devices.
• Connects to Notion
• Doesn't connect to smart home devices.
• Basic plan: $0, Pro: $8.25 per month billed annually

In conclusion, you can find several excellent speech-to-text apps available for Android devices, each with unique features and capabilities. Whether you're looking for a simple and user-friendly app or a professional-grade tool, there's an app out there that will meet your needs. 

Copywriter based in Miami, FL. Leads copywriting workshops and mentors women entrepreneurs at the Idea Center of Miami Dade College.

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The best speech to text apps for Android

Speech to text is a software that recognizes speech and translates the speech into text using computational linguistics. It is generally referred to as computer speech recognition or speech recognition. Certain tools, devices and applications can, in real-time, convert audio streams to display a text and act on it accordingly.

The explosion of mobile devices has increasingly led to speech-to-text demand and usage in a variety of different environments – from the education sector to corporate – simply because technology has matured to the point of causing fewer errors in transcripts, with a success rate of 99.9% with crystal clear audio.

Android mobile phones come with a built-in voice text converter enabled by default that allows you to dictate emails, text messages, and other text that you would normally enter using the on-screen keyboard.

Benefits of speech to text software for Android

User friendly.

The best voice text software makes it pretty straightforward and effortless to transcribe speech to text. While the most exceptional speech-to-text software was once only intended for desktops, the discovery of mobile devices and the vast growth of easily accessible applications mean that you can now convert speech to text on mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, etc.

Time and energy saving

A speech-to-text program can increase productivity and generate more profits, especially for those running their own business. Speech-to-text software is vital for saving you time and effort that is best spent somewhere else.

This program makes for effective multitasking since it allows you to do more than one task simultaneously. For example, you can use your eyes and hands to do something while your voice is doing something different. This is essential when doing multiple projects simultaneously or taking notes while you are busy with something else, such as making dinner.

Today, when many people rely on mobile devices to live and work, speech-to-text software gives you much-needed convenience, especially if it is applied via a mobile phone.

You can easily find a Speech-to-Text program on your personal computer and mobile device. Whether you are using the program to transcribe a dictation, a Word document, or for internet navigation, it offers a valuable and easy-to-use alternative to typing.

This software is very current; hence end users can keep up with emerging technology trends. It's clear to see that everyone likes to use the latest technology. And for business owners, there is also some PR value in having a presence and using the latest trends.

As the speech-to-text software market grows, technology giants continue to look for ways to provide more elegant and refined solutions to clients.

Download our free transcription template

Get started with transcription. Here you will find templates for both detailed transcription and standard transcription . You can use the formats and examples in your own working document.

The best speech to text for Android

Digital speech to text conversion can still meet needs like basic note taking, simplifying the process of dictation.

However, each different language text software has distinct capacity and complexity levels. Some use advanced machine learning to repeatedly correct user-flagged errors so they don't keep recurring; others are downloadable programs that depend on their latest updates.

Below is among the best speech recognition software suitable for most situations.

Dragon Anywhere

This premium high-end app tool is available for Android and iOS devices and plays a huge role in the dictation world. It's 99% correct and it has voice editing and formatting features. With time, it gets speedy and more accurate as it gets used to the user's voice.

You can use this application as many times as you need since the words are not restricted. With Dragon Anywhere, you can customize industry jargon for even more precision. After speech to text conversion, you can share your notes via Evernote email, Dropbox, and more. With supported versions, you can use this app with your personal computer.

Google Assistant

This app does many things, such as opening maps, playing music, etc. Voice recognition is among its best features. You can use voice commands to get information and instruct the Google Assistant to carry out specific tasks.

The app can also transcribe. It can add events to the calendar, draft emails, send messages, and manage tasks. While it's not purely a speech-to-text app, it does help one organize their thoughts and notes with speech recognition.

People who engage in many conversations, such as journalists or secretaries, may find this app very helpful. With AI, Transcribe converts any speech or video note into a transcript in more than 80 distinct languages ​​and dialects. After making a recording, you can paste your file into this application and export the raw text to another application like Dropbox.

Speechnotes

Authors whose minds are faster in generating new ideas than they can actually write will find this app useful. Speechnotes' two special features make it ideal for organizing long notes.

Even if you take a short break to think or breathe, this application won't stop recording, so you can keep a recording open until you are satisfied. Second, with the tap of a button or using a verbal command, you can add punctuation to your work, so it isn’t too difficult to work with.

Voice notes

If you have an idea but don't have a pen or paper nearby, you can always use your voice. Voice notes have speech recognition for efficient note taking. You can then categorize your notes and create reminders by customizing the synced notifications with your phone's calendar.

The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly; you can quickly press the microphone button and speak to start recording. It's easy to take notes even when the phone screen is off. If you need to take notes in other languages besides English, this app is handy since it can recognize around 119 languages.

How to use speech to text on Android

You can instantly use your voice to dictate text in any application where you would typically enter data with their on-screen keyboard.

• Step 1: The first step is to start any application with a keyboard function, for instance, messages or email, and tap a text field to display the on-screen keyboard.
• Step 2: The next step is to touch the voice prompt icon that resembles a microphone.
• Step 3: As your speak, your voice should automatically be transcribed to text.
• Step 4: When done, you have to tap the voice prompt again to edit the converted text, then save or send the text as required.

Want to know more about Semantix transcription services?

Download templates for both detailed transcription and standard transcription. You can use the formats and examples in your own working document.

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The 6 best free speech-to-text apps for creators

What type of content do you primarily create?

Discover the best free speech-to-text apps for seamless transcription! Enhance productivity with accurate and efficient voice recognition.

If you're an online creator who works with video and audio (say, a podcaster or YouTuber), chances are you spend a lot of time or money writing scripts and transcribing your content. Or, you let YouTube automatically caption your videos and hope for the best, often with colorful results .

But it doesn't have to be that way.

You don't have to spend hours manually transcribing or a ton of money for per-minute transcription services. Instead, you can use free speech-to-text software, some of which include artificial intelligence (AI) tools designed for creators , to help you get your words onto the page in minutes.

6 best free speech-to-text apps for creators

• oTranscribe
• Apple Dictation
• Google Docs Voice Typing

What is a speech-to-text app?

A speech-to-text app, or dictation app, is software that lets you record your voice (or upload an audio/video file) and transcribes it into text within the app.

The technology basis of these apps is speech recognition software, which takes a recording and breaks it down into bits it can interpret, converting them into digital text. It's worth noting that speech recognition technology and voice recognition aren't the same; the latter only looks to identify a spoken voice (and often specific voice commands) rather than transcribe what’s being said.

One of the most common use cases for speech-to-text is for transcribing interviews and meetings, which makes them more accessible for those with hearing difficulties and better for SEO purposes.

However, you can also use them for transcribing voiceover videos , vlogs, audio-only podcasts, and more.

How to choose the best free speech-to-text software

In this section, we'll cover a few core features you should look out for when choosing free speech-to-text software for creating content. If the software you're looking at doesn't have these, you'll most likely need to look elsewhere.

Transcription minutes

Of course, you need your speech-to-text app to transcribe. However, not every app or tool will transcribe pre-recorded audio or video and offer 'live' transcription. For apps that do both (and if this feature is what you need), you'll want to pay attention to the amount of transcription you get for free.

On the other hand, if you only want to use speech-to-text for script planning (e.g., voicing your ideas out loud), you may only need a dictation tool that'll put your spoken words into a document. We'll be showing you tools that cater to these different needs in our comparison section below.

Format compatibility and export

If you need software or tools to help you use speech-to-text for transcribing videos and podcasts, you'll need to keep an eye out for import and export format compatibility.

If the software you're considering only accepts .wav audio files, you'll need to convert to that format if your recording is in another. On the other end of the workflow, if you need your transcription to be able to export as a Microsoft Word document, you'll need to make sure your software exports Word docs before you waste your time.

Storage and organization

Whether you're only using a dictation tool or full speech-to-text software, you'll want your words to be easily accessible. Some software (if not all) will have storage limits, so if you record a lot of content, look for one with a generous amount of storage.

You'll also want to consider the organization of your files — granted, this point is entirely subjective and depends on what kind of user interface you like to use. Since we're specifically looking at free options (or software with free plans), it won't hurt to try a few out to see which you like best.

Automatic speaker labels

If you record a podcast or other video content with guests, you'll need to be able to separate who's who in your transcription. You can manually separate speakers in your transcription, but the best way to save time here is to use software that automatically adds speaker labels.

Usually, this means the software will ask you to identify the speakers first; then, it'll handle the rest of the transcription (typically with AI).

An easy-to-use editor

The final feature you want to consider is editing. No transcription software is 100% accurate, so you'll want to use one that has a smooth and easy editor to help you get the job done faster and more easily.

6 best speech-to-text apps for creators

With all of the above in mind, let's get into the details of some of the best speech-to-text software tools currently available that are most suitable for creators.

We make this distinction because some speech-to-text software tools are specifically designed for professional industry use (e.g., medical and legal) and are costly because of that specialization.

1. De‎script

‎ Key features:

• Automatic high-quality transcription (up to an hour free) with up to 95% accuracy
• Automatically remove filler words and periods of silence with Descript AI tools
• Easy document-style editing, which adjusts both the script and media
• Highlights potential errors to help you proofread and review
• Easily add subtitles to your video with the transcription
• Descript supports 23+ different languages 

Upgrade options: The Creator plan (from $12/month) includes 10 transcription hours, and the Pro plan (from $24/month) includes 30 transcription hours. Each comes with even more features besides more hours.

Platforms: Web app, Windows 10 (or newer), Mac OS High Sierra (or newer).

Descript's speech-to-text transcription tool is embedded within its editor software and is one of the best free options specifically for creators. You can create a project for either an existing video to upload or record a new one straight into the software, and the audio-text feature will add the words to your script.

When I added a video of one of my virtual academic conference presentations (originally 12:53 in duration), it transcribed my words in about a minute and a half with suprising accuracy, given that I was using some highbrow academic language.

After editing, using filler words and word gap removal, I cut my video down to 11:29 in just a few seconds and made the video a lot more presentable (unfortunately for me, I didn't have Descript when I initially presented at that conference). 

Descript also lets you use Studio Sound to improve the overall sound quality—it’s free for files up to 10 minutes on the free plan, and unlimited on paid plans.

2. oT‎ranscribe

Key features:

• A simple HTML web app means good cross-platform accessibility
• Keyboard shortcuts for easy playback, rewind, and fast-forward
• Integrated video player to stop tab/software switching
• Interactive timestamps
• Automatic saving to your browser's storage every second
• Export to Markdown, Plain Text, and Google Docs

Upgrade options: Completely free, no plans or upgrade options.

Platforms: Web app (worked in Chrome and Safari at the time of writing).

This one, admittedly, is cheating a little. oTranscribe is technically a transcription-specific tool, so there's no speech-recognition tech involved. But it's a great tool if you want to work on your video or audio manually. For example, suppose you're using a lot of niche vocabulary (fantasy names, industry-specific terms, etc.). In that case, you can sometimes spend more time editing a generated transcript than writing it with better accuracy.

It has a simple HTML interface with a familiar-looking document editor and immediately tells you the most important keyboard shortcuts to use. Using it on the same conference video test made manual transcription much easier than I remember compared to previous projects.

While this is fine for creating a standalone transcript, it doesn't help you add captions or do anything else (e.g., text summaries, repurposing your script, etc.).

3. Di‎ctanote

• Familiar notebook-style file organization of your notes
• Basic text editing, which is easy to pick up
• You can install its dedicated app instead of using the web
• Decent speech-to-text accuracy
• Dictation is completely free

Upgrade options: You can pay 10 cents per minute for AI transcription of existing audio files.

Platforms: Web app, Chrome app (when it asked me to install, it installed on my MacBook as a Chrome app).

If you want to use a tool to help you type as you speak, Dictanote is a great option. It's packaged as a note-taking app, where you can easily store and organize notes you've made. You can type notes as usual, but its key feature is its speech-to-text function and voice commands.

If you've never dictated before, it takes some getting used to, i.e., voicing punctuation and new lines. However, once you get the hang of it, speaking your thoughts can be much faster than typing them by hand.

This option is mainly for creators who want their creative ideas out of their heads and onto the page and provide a dedicated space for their ideas.

For the downsides, while testing the app, it didn't seem to like my AirPods when dictating (it didn't register my voice at all, even after granting permissions), and I had to switch to my Macbook Air microphone. That might be down to me not having the correct settings, but it's worth mentioning. Also, not having any free transcription options for existing media can be a deal-breaker for creators who primarily record content on the fly.

4. ‎ Apple Dictation

• No internet connection required (with Apple Silicon devices)
• Setting up Voice Control can add even more functionality to dictation
• User-friendly; use it anywhere you’d usually type
• Up to 96% accuracy

Upgrade options: Comes free with Apple devices.

Platforms: Apple Mac and iOS devices only.

To test Apple dictation, I've decided to use it to write this section of the article using the Apple Notes app, then copy and paste what I've written into my draft (with a bit of editing).

It's a great tool to help you write as you speak; what’s more, it’s entirely free because it comes embedded within Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks.

Another great benefit of using Apple dictation is that you can easily swap between using your voice and typing, making editing easy for simple mistakes (such as capitalizing brand names). However, when you set it up with voice commands, you can also use dictation to edit instead. Apple dictation also switches off if it doesn’t detect your voice after about 15 seconds or so.

Of course, if you're not an Apple user, Apple dictation is not the tool for you. However, Microsoft has an equivalent dictation tool with an equally reasonable accuracy rate. If you're the type of creator who likes to think out loud and can get used to voicing punctuation and new lines quickly, then Apple dictation is the right tool to help you get thoughts on the page.

As a downside, I found that Apple dictation works best with other Apple software products, such as the Notes app. The dictation keyboard shortcut doesn't work at all in Google Docs, which is likely because Google Docs has its own dictation tool, which we’ll be looking at next.

5. ‎ Google Docs Voice Typing

• Google Docs is an extremely widely used, cross-platform tool for professionals and creators, making collaboration easy.
• Activate voice typing with a keyboard shortcut no matter where you are on the page
• Clear, large icon indicates you've started voice typing

Upgrade options: It comes as a free feature of Google Docs; there's no upgraded version.

Platforms: Web (I'd recommend Chrome specifically for Google Docs, but other browsers may work just as well). It may also work on the Docs app using the Gboard keyboard, but it doesn't work with the default iOS keyboard.

I've used Google Docs as the main deliverable format in my career for years, and I'd never thought to use the native Google speech-to-text feature. However, as a speech-to-text option, it works in the same way as Apple Dictation and Dictanote.

The main difference between these dictation options is the software platform and UI. If you're a creator who uses Google Docs for your ideas, transcripts, collaboration opportunities, and Google Drive for storage, then voice typing directly into Google Docs could be a great option.

However, as with the other dictation tools we've covered, they don't help you with existing media; they’re only for live speech. This lack of transcription can add to your work rather than make your workflow smoother.

6. ‎ Otter.ai

• AI meeting assistant that keeps audio recordings, transcribes, captures slides, and generates summaries in real time.
• Automatically integrates with Zoom, Google Meet, and MS Team to write and share notes
• 300 transcription minutes and up to 30 minutes per conversation on the free plan
• You can import up to 3 audio or video files for transcription (period). You get a monthly limit if you upgrade.

Upgrade options: Pro from $10/month, Business from $20/month (gets you 1,200 and 6,000 transcription minutes, respectively).

Platforms: Web, iOS app, Android app

My personal experience with Otter.ai started when a client of mine would send me interview transcripts she'd made with it. While they helped create content based on the interviews, the transcripts were never super accurate (I'd say roughly 75%).

However, using my conference presentation video, the accuracy is more within the 90% range. I imagine this huge difference comes from the fact that with more than one person speaking, it can be difficult for the AI to keep speakers separated — and on top of that, neither my client nor the interviewees ever seemed to use dedicated microphones.

For creators who post a lot of videos or audio content online, Otter.ai can be a time saver for transcribing podcast interviews you've recorded on Zoom , Google Meets, or MS Teams.

On the other hand, while you can edit the transcript within the Otter.ai software, you can't edit the media the transcript came from. So, if you need a tool to do both, Otter.ai can't help you. Otter.ai also only works in English, so if you need to use another language, you'll need to look elsewhere.

Honorable mention: Just Press Record

If you're a creator with an iPhone or Apple Watch who finds yourself coming up with content ideas in the most random places, and you typically make voice notes with the Voice Memo mobile app to record your ideas, Just Press Record is a great on-the-go speech-to-text service. It's an honorable mention here because it has a one-time purchase fee from the app store ($/£4.99).

With the iPhone app, you can record pro-level audio (if you've got a plug-in microphone), transcribe every word with high accuracy (no limits), edit the transcript in-app, sync across iCloud, and organize your notes by folder.

However, you can also cut/trim the audio to better match an edited transcript, though you have to do this manually.

Another software often cited as a great choice is Nuance Dragon Professional and Dragon Anywhere mobile app. However, upon researching, I discovered that the app has a lot of poor reviews (it's sitting at 2.4/5 on the app store at the time of writing). So, I decided not to include it in this list.

Quick tip for the best speech-to-text results

No matter which type of speech-to-text tool you use, to get the best results, you'll want to use a good-quality microphone so that the audio is as clear as possible.

If you still have trouble with inaccurate dictation or transcription, try speaking more clearly and making sure you don't have too much background noise.

Best free speech-to-text app FAQs

Is there a free app for voice-to-text transcription.

Yes. There are several free voice-to-text transcription apps available. Descript is one of the best options for creators. However, many people can use their device's onboard dictation solution with a note-taking app.

What is the best AI speech-to-text tool?

Descript is the best transcription option for creators who want to use speech-to-text alongside media editing — editing the transcript also edits the media.

On the other hand, if you don't need to edit media, Otter.ai is another great option for transcribing personal meetings and internal interviews.

What are the benefits of using a speech-to-text app?

• Saves time. People often speak much faster than they can type, so a speech-to-text tool can help you get words onto a page more quickly.
• Saves money. Many speech-to-text apps are reasonably accurate and free, which saves you from needing to pay for professional transcriptions (unless you really need human transcription services).

Greater accessibility. People with specific disabilities find it difficult, if not impossible, to type by hand, and so speech-to-text is a critical tool for those who need it.

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The best dictation software in 2024

These speech-to-text apps will save you time without sacrificing accuracy..

The early days of dictation software were like your friend that mishears lyrics: lots of enthusiasm but little accuracy. Now, AI is out of Pandora's box, both in the news and in the apps we use, and dictation apps are getting better and better because of it. It's still not 100% perfect, but you'll definitely feel more in control when using your voice to type.

I took to the internet to find the best speech-to-text software out there right now, and after monologuing at length in front of dozens of dictation apps, these are my picks for the best.

The best dictation software

What is dictation software.

If this isn't what you're looking for, here's what else is out there:

AI assistants, such as Apple's Siri, Amazon's Alexa, and Microsoft's Cortana, can help you interact with each of these ecosystems to send texts, buy products, or schedule events on your calendar.

Transcription services that use a combination of dictation software, AI, and human proofreaders can achieve above 99% accuracy.

What makes a great dictation app?

How we evaluate and test apps.

Dictation software comes in different shapes and sizes. Some are integrated in products you already use. Others are separate apps that offer a range of extra features. While each can vary in look and feel, here's what I looked for to find the best:

High accuracy. Staying true to what you're saying is the most important feature here. The lowest score on this list is at 92% accuracy.

Ease of use. This isn't a high hurdle, as most options are basic enough that anyone can figure them out in seconds.

Availability of voice commands. These let you add "instructions" while you're dictating, such as adding punctuation, starting a new paragraph, or more complex commands like capitalizing all the words in a sentence.

Availability of the languages supported. Most of the picks here support a decent (or impressive) number of languages.

Versatility. I paid attention to how well the software could adapt to different circumstances, apps, and systems.

I tested these apps by reading a 200-word script containing numbers, compound words, and a few tricky terms. I read the script three times for each app: the accuracy scores are an average of all attempts. Finally, I used the voice commands to delete and format text and to control the app's features where available.

What about AI?

Also, since this isn't a hot AI software category, these apps may prefer to focus on their core offering and product quality instead, not ride the trendy wave by slapping "AI-powered" on every web page.

Tips for using voice recognition software

Though dictation software is pretty good at recognizing different voices, it's not perfect. Here are some tips to make it work as best as possible.

Speak naturally (with caveats). Dictation apps learn your voice and speech patterns over time. And if you're going to spend any time with them, you want to be comfortable. Speak naturally. If you're not getting 90% accuracy initially, try enunciating more.  

Punctuate. When you dictate, you have to say each period, comma, question mark, and so forth. The software isn't always smart enough to figure it out on its own.

Learn a few commands . Take the time to learn a few simple commands, such as "new line" to enter a line break. There are different commands for composing, editing, and operating your device. Commands may differ from app to app, so learn the ones that apply to the tool you choose.

Know your limits. Especially on mobile devices, some tools have a time limit for how long they can listen—sometimes for as little as 10 seconds. Glance at the screen from time to time to make sure you haven't blown past the mark. 

Practice. It takes time to adjust to voice recognition software, but it gets easier the more you practice. Some of the more sophisticated apps invite you to train by reading passages or doing other short drills. Don't shy away from tutorials, help menus, and on-screen cheat sheets.

The best dictation software at a glance

Best free dictation software for apple devices, .css-yjptlz-link{all:unset;box-sizing:border-box;-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;cursor:pointer;-webkit-transition:all 300ms ease-in-out;transition:all 300ms ease-in-out;outline-offset:1px;-webkit-text-fill-color:currentcolor;outline:1px solid transparent;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='ocean']{color:#3d4592;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='ocean']:hover{color:#2b2358;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='ocean']:focus{color:#3d4592;outline-color:#3d4592;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='white']{color:#fffdf9;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='white']:hover{color:#a8a5a0;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='white']:focus{color:#fffdf9;outline-color:#fffdf9;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='primary']{color:#3d4592;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='primary']:hover{color:#2b2358;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='primary']:focus{color:#3d4592;outline-color:#3d4592;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='secondary']{color:#fffdf9;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='secondary']:hover{color:#a8a5a0;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-color='secondary']:focus{color:#fffdf9;outline-color:#fffdf9;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-weight='inherit']{font-weight:inherit;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-weight='normal']{font-weight:400;}.css-yjptlz-link[data-weight='bold']{font-weight:700;} apple dictation (ios, ipados, macos).

Look no further than your Mac, iPhone, or iPad for one of the best dictation tools. Apple's built-in dictation feature, powered by Siri (I wouldn't be surprised if the two merged one day), ships as part of Apple's desktop and mobile operating systems. On iOS devices, you use it by pressing the microphone icon on the stock keyboard. On your desktop, you turn it on by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Dictation , and then use a keyboard shortcut to activate it in your app.

Apple Dictation price: Included with macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Apple Watch.

Apple Dictation accuracy: 96%. I tested this on an iPhone SE 3rd Gen using the dictation feature on the keyboard.

Best free dictation software for Windows

Windows 11 speech recognition (windows).

Windows 11 Speech Recognition (also known as Voice Typing) is a strong dictation tool, both for writing documents and controlling your Windows PC. Since it's part of your system, you can use it in any app you have installed.

To start, first, check that online speech recognition is on by going to Settings > Time and Language > Speech . To begin dictating, open an app, and on your keyboard, press the Windows logo key + H. A microphone icon and gray box will appear at the top of your screen. Make sure your cursor is in the space where you want to dictate.

When it's ready for your dictation, it will say Listening . You have about 10 seconds to start talking before the microphone turns off. If that happens, just click it again and wait for Listening to pop up. To stop the dictation, click the microphone icon again or say "stop talking."  

As I dictated into a Word document, the gray box reminded me to hang on, we need a moment to catch up . If you're speaking too fast, you'll also notice your transcribed words aren't keeping up. This never posed an issue with accuracy, but it's a nice reminder to keep it slow and steady. 

While you can use this tool anywhere inside your computer, if you're a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you'll be able to use the dictation features there too. The best app to use it on is, of course, Microsoft Word: it even offers file transcription, so you can upload a WAV or MP3 file and turn it into text. The engine is the same, provided by Microsoft Speech Services.

Windows 11 Speech Recognition price: Included with Windows 11. Also available as part of the Microsoft 365 subscription.

Windows 11 Speech Recognition accuracy: 95%. I tested it in Windows 11 while using Microsoft Word. 

Best customizable dictation software

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In 1990, Dragon Dictate emerged as the first dictation software. Over three decades later, we have Dragon by Nuance, a leader in the industry and a distant cousin of that first iteration. With a variety of software packages and mobile apps for different use cases (e.g., legal, medical, law enforcement), Dragon can handle specialized industry vocabulary, and it comes with excellent features, such as the ability to transcribe text from an audio file you upload. 

For this test, I used Dragon Anywhere, Nuance's mobile app, as it's the only version—among otherwise expensive packages—available with a free trial. It includes lots of features not found in the others, like Words, which lets you add words that would be difficult to recognize and spell out. For example, in the script, the word "Litmus'" (with the possessive) gave every app trouble. To avoid this, I added it to Words, trained it a few times with my voice, and was then able to transcribe it accurately.

It also provides shortcuts. If you want to shorten your entire address to one word, go to Auto-Text , give it a name ("address"), and type in your address: 1000 Eichhorn St., Davenport, IA 52722, and hit Save . The next time you dictate and say "address," you'll get the entire thing. Press the comment bubble icon to see text commands while you're dictating, or say "What can I say?" and the command menu pops up. 

Once you complete a dictation, you can email, share (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox), open in Word, or save to Evernote. You can perform these actions manually or by voice command (e.g., "save to Evernote.") Once you name it, it automatically saves in Documents for later review or sharing. 

Accuracy is good and improves with use, showing that you can definitely train your dragon. It's a great choice if you're serious about dictation and plan to use it every day, but may be a bit too much if you're just using it occasionally.

Dragon by Nuance price: $15/month for Dragon Anywhere (iOS and Android); from $200 to $500 for desktop packages

Dragon by Nuance accuracy: 97%. Tested it in the Dragon Anywhere iOS app.

Best free mobile dictation software

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Back to the topic: it has an excellent dictation feature. To start, press the microphone icon on the top-right of the keyboard. An overlay appears on the screen, filling itself with the words you're saying. It's very quick and accurate, which will feel great for fast-talkers but probably intimidating for the more thoughtful among us. If you stop talking for a few seconds, the overlay disappears, and Gboard pastes what it heard into the app you're using. When this happens, tap the microphone icon again to continue talking.

Wherever you can open a keyboard while using your phone, you can have Gboard supporting you there. You can write emails or notes or use any other app with an input field.

The writer who handled the previous update of this list had been using Gboard for seven years, so it had plenty of training data to adapt to his particular enunciation, landing the accuracy at an amazing 98%. I haven't used it much before, so the best I had was 92% overall. It's still a great score. More than that, it's proof of how dictation apps improve the more you use them.

Gboard price : Free

Gboard accuracy: 92%. With training, it can go up to 98%. I tested it using the iOS app while writing a new email.

Best dictation software for typing in Google Docs

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Just like Microsoft offers dictation in their Office products, Google does the same for their Workspace suite. The best place to use the voice typing feature is in Google Docs, but you can also dictate speaker notes in Google Slides as a way to prepare for your presentation.

To get started, make sure you're using Chrome and have a Google Docs file open. Go to Tools > Voice typing , and press the microphone icon to start. As you talk, the text will jitter into existence in the document.

You can change the language in the dropdown on top of the microphone icon. If you need help, hover over that icon, and click the ? on the bottom-right. That will show everything from turning on the mic, the voice commands for dictation, and moving around the document.

It's unclear whether Google's voice typing here is connected to the same engine in Gboard. I wasn't able to confirm whether the training data for the mobile keyboard and this tool are connected in any way. Still, the engines feel very similar and turned out the same accuracy at 92%. If you start using it more often, it may adapt to your particular enunciation and be more accurate in the long run.

Google Docs voice typing price : Free

Google Docs voice typing accuracy: 92%. Tested in a new Google Docs file in Chrome.

Best dictation software for collaboration

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It's not as robust in terms of dictation as others on the list, but it compensates with its versatility. It's a meeting assistant, first and foremost, ready to hop on your meetings and transcribe everything it hears. This is great to keep track of what's happening there, making the text available for sharing by generating a link or in the corresponding team workspace.

The reason why it's the best for collaboration is that others can highlight parts of the transcript and leave their comments. It also separates multiple speakers, in case you're recording a conversation, so that's an extra headache-saver if you use dictation software for interviewing people.

When you open the app and click the Record button on the top-right, you can use it as a traditional dictation app. It doesn't support voice commands, but it has decent intuition as to where the commas and periods should go based on the intonation and rhythm of your voice. Once you're done talking, Otter will start processing what you said, extract keywords, and generate action items and notes from the content of the transcription.

If you're going for long recording stretches where you talk about multiple topics, there's an AI chat option, where you can ask Otter questions about the transcript. This is great to summarize the entire talk, extract insights, and get a different angle on everything you said.

Otter price: Free plan available for 300 minutes / month. Pro plan starts at $16.99, adding more collaboration features and monthly minutes.

Otter accuracy: 93% accuracy. I tested it in the web app on my computer.

Otter supported languages: Only American and British English for now.

Is voice dictation for you?

Dictation software isn't for everyone. It will likely take practice learning to "write" out loud because it will feel unnatural. But once you get comfortable with it, you'll be able to write from anywhere on any device without the need for a keyboard. 

And by using any of the apps I listed here, you can feel confident that most of what you dictate will be accurately captured on the screen. 

Related reading:

This article was originally published in April 2016 and has also had contributions from Emily Esposito, Jill Duffy, and Chris Hawkins. The most recent update was in November 2023.

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Miguel Rebelo

Miguel Rebelo is a freelance writer based in London, UK. He loves technology, video games, and huge forests. Track him down at mirebelo.com.

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The best speech-to-text software for 2022

If you’re looking to take your productivity up a notch (or if you’re just a really slow typist), the best speech-to-text software is a sure way to do it. The idea is pretty simple: You speak, and the software detects your words and converts them into text format. The applications are nearly endless, from dictating thoughts and jotting down notes to creating long-form documents without having to type a word yourself. Yet despite this, not many businesses and professionals are taking full advantage of what speech-to-text software can give them.

Dragon Anywhere

Amazon transcribe, google docs voice typing.

The good news is that the best speech-to-text software doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg — or anything at all, depending on your needs. There’s a handful of noteworthy services out there, though, and selecting the right one is important. That’s where we come in. Below, we’ve rounded up the best speech-to-text software platforms out there, with our picks covering a wide spectrum of platforms, features, and price points.

• Price: $15 per month or $150 per year
• Free Trial: Yes
• Platforms: iOS, Android
• Voice editing and formatting
• Cloud-based storage and file sharing
• AI learning adapts to your speech

If you’re already somewhat familiar with the best speech-to-text software then there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Dragon. Dragon Anywhere is a dedicated mobile speech-to-text app that delivers a high degree of accuracy thanks to its industry-leading speech recognition software that can adapt to your own speech patterns. In other words, Dragon Anywhere can actually learn  how you speak, right down to your sentence cadence and word pronunciation. In the off-chance that it does make a mistake, you can edit and format using just your voice. Dragon Anywhere also allows for continuous dictation with no word limits or length cut-offs, and your text documents are stored in the cloud for easy access and sharing with colleagues when you need to.

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Dragon Anywhere is by far the best speech-to-text software for mobile users, given that it’s designed entirely for use on iOS and Android devices, making it the ideal choice for translators, lawyers, accountants and other professionals who need to turn spoken dialog into written notes. It’s a bit like having a virtual stenographer. Plus, it’s useful for anybody else who wants to be able to “jot” things down hands-free. Its cloud-based sharing makes Dragon Anywhere great for group work, too.

Dragon Anywhere is a paid service with monthly and yearly subscription plans. You can pay on a monthly basis for $15, although if you like the service, then the $150 annual subscription is a better value (basically getting you two months free each year). If you want to give it a try first, there is a free one-week Dragon Anywhere trial available as well. There are Dragon software suites available for business users on Windows, and Dragon Anywhere syncs with them seamlessly. You also get a Dragon Anywhere subscription at no additional cost — a $150 value — with the Dragon Home and Dragon Professional desktop versions, which might be a better value depending on your needs.

• Price: Starts at $0.024 per minute
• Free Trial: Yes, Free Tier provides 60 audio minutes monthly for the first 12 months
• Platforms: Most devices with a microphone
• HIPAA- eligible and compatible with electronic health record systems
• Integrates with AWS cloud services
• Call Analytics extracts data and insights from customer interactions

If you need a more enterprise-grade solution, then Amazon Transcribe is one of the best speech-to-text software services for businesses large and small. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with Amazon Web Services, so if your website and/or company already uses any of these, then setup should be a breeze. You can create text documents, transcribe conversations and videos, translate speech, and more. What really sets Amazon Transcribe apart from other speech-to-text apps (aside from its AWS integration) is its bevy of great features tailored for professional environments.

For instance, its Call Analytics feature can automatically extract useful insights from customer interactions, allowing you to tune and tailor your customer service. It’s also HIPAA-eligible and compatible with electronic health record systems for easy uploading and management of medical transcriptions and other patient data. Amazon Transcribe is purpose-built for businesses, especially larger enterprises (not to mention organizations such as hospitals), which should come as no surprise given its integration with Amazon Web Services.

Compared to other dictating software, Amazon Transcribe’s pricing structure is somewhat unique in that its monthly subscription fee is based on how many audio minutes you use, with plans starting at $0.024 per minute and scaling down in price per minute for the higher tiers. If you’re looking for the best speech-to-text software for professional business applications, Amazon Transcribe is hard to beat.

• Price: $79 for yearly subscription, $200 for lifetime
• Free Trial: Yes, basic free plan available
• Platforms: Windows; companion app available for iOS and Android
• Understands more than 100 languages
• Acts as a virtual assistant for your PC
• Remote PC control through Android or iOS mobile devices

If Dragon and Amazon Transcribe are overkill for your needs, Braina is one of the best speech-to-text software suites for individual users. We named it the best multipurpose program in our roundup of the best dictation software , as Braina can be considered more of a virtual assistant for your PC rather than a simple speech-to-text app. Think of it as being much like Siri or Alexa , but more focused on productivity (and much more powerful and versatile in this regard) while being also capable of excellent speech-to-text functions thanks to its impressive speech recognition A.I. that understands more than 100 languages.

If you feel like you could use a hand around the office but don’t want to actually hire a personal assistant, Braina might be worth a go. It’s one of the best speech-to-text software choices for small businesses, home offices, and individual users thanks to its excellent speech recognition capabilities and other features. Perform internet searches, dictate documents, translate different languages, record calls and meetings, set alarms and calendar reminders, sort through your files — you name it. Braina’s companion app even lets you do everything remotely via your iOS or Android phone or tablet when you’re away from your computer.

One major drawback of Braina is that the core software only works on Windows, the aforementioned iOS and Android companion app notwithstanding. Also, multiple people can use Braina without having separate accounts or subscriptions, which is a nice change of pace from most subscription-based software suites. There is a basic free plan available as well. If you want to unlock the full set of features, though, such as non-English language compatibility, then Braina will set you back $79 yearly or $200 for a lifetime key.

• Price: Free
• Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux (browser-based)
• If you have a Google account, you already have it
• Automatically converts text into document format
• Cloud-based

You might already have access to one of the best speech-to-text software apps without even knowing it, as Google Docs has one build right in. Google’s browser-based word processor (part of the broader Google Drive suite of cloud-based office software) features a Voice Typing feature, and if you have a Google account and a working mic, then you’re already set up to use it. You don’t have to pay a cent for it, either, and for free software, it’s pretty good — although it naturally lacks many of the advanced features and dictation functions of the best speech-to-text software we outlined above.

Google Docs Voice Typing is very simple: You speak into your microphone, and Google Docs dumps the text into a document. It costs nothing to use, so if you’re on the fence about whether you need speech recognition at all, then Google Docs Voice Typing is a free way to try it out before you shell out any cash for any of the best speech-to-text software suites that you have to pay for. Voice Typing is great for those who just need basic dictating software without the bells and whistles offered by paid services, as well.

Since Google Docs is browser-based, you shouldn’t have to worry about platform compatibility. It’s naturally best for use on a computer rather than a mobile device; that said, you can really use it on any device with a microphone and access to Google Docs. Everything you do with Google Docs Voice Typing is automatically stored on the cloud, too, just like any other document you’d create or edit using Google Docs. The Google Drive cloud also makes it easy to share your transcriptions with friends and colleagues if you want.

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Communication is an essential part of doing business online, from the simplest calls and text messages to large-scale video conferences involving dozens or even hundreds of people. Unfortunately, most of the free communication apps most of us use every day aren't really built for anything other than simple messaging and therefore aren't up to meeting the demands of modern companies.

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25 Best Speech to Text Applications for Android

With these incredible apps write accurate texts as you speak in real time

In today’s fast-paced digital age, transforming spoken words into written text has never been easier, thanks to the countless innovative apps at our fingertips. If you’re on the lookout for the best speech-to-text applications for Android, your search ends here. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking a seamless note-taking solution or prefer speaking over typing, these apps will act as a great helping hand.

Table of Contents

Best Speech to Text Applications for Android

From comprehensive transcription solutions to quick voice-to-text converters, choose the app that aligns with your specific requirements, and experience the seamless integration of speech into your digital interactions.

1. Live Transcribe & notification

Live Transcribe & Sound Notifications is a game-changing contender in the realm of best Android speech-to-text applications. This app is a dynamic solution designed to make everyday conversations and ambient sounds accessible to those who are deaf and hard of hearing.

Key Features:

• Instantly convert spoken words into text that appears on your device as the conversation unfolds.
• A diverse range of over 80 languages and dialects , and effortless switching between two languages.
• Personalization by adding frequently used words like names or household items to enhance accuracy .
• The device can be set to vibrate when your name is spoken.

2. Write by Voice: Speech to Text

Whether you’re crafting messages, composing emails, or jotting down notes, the Write by Voice application offers a seamless transition from speech to text. Its amazing features make it one of the best free speech to text applications for Android.

• Generate an endless array of documents that are automatically saved.
• Easily undo or redo text-related actions with the help of the editing history.
• Supports multiple languages and provides accurate recognition results.
• Dark theme to reduce strain and conserve battery power.
• Offline mode by installing language packs , and following the instructions in the settings without internet.
• Customize to a font size that suits your preferences for the entered text.

3. Voice Notebook speech to text

With the ability to save locally or send to cloud services, Voice Notebook empowers you to effortlessly capture quick voice notes or compose lengthy drafts in a variety of ways. It is a great choice as a free voice to text app for Android.

• Create a list of replaceable words for voice input , tailoring the app to your linguistic style.
• Dictate when and where letters are capitalized, ensuring your text is precisely as intended.
• Simply trigger the undo command through a button or voice, rectifying the last speech input .
• Speech recognition in both online and offline modes.
• Word and character counters to keep track of valuable insights into your content’s length.
• Facilitate bilingual communication with the convenience of seamless voice input in multiple languages.
• Integrate with Google Assistant for hands-free control.

Also Read: How to Use Text to Speech on TikTok

4. Voice Notes

Voice Notes is not just an app; it’s your trusty companion for transforming spoken words into organized and actionable text. Whether you’re a busy professional, a creative thinker, or someone who simply prefers to communicate through speech, this app empowers you to capture, organize, and share your thoughts seamlessly.

• Seamless note-taking, memos, and to-do lists by voice.
• Integration with your Android calendars, ensuring that important dates and reminders are synchronized.
• Easily share your voice-to-text notes with friends, colleagues, and loved ones.
• Notes are automatically saved in a storage file, and you can back them up to the cloud for added security.
• Categorize notes into projects or categories , enhancing information management.
• Screen-off functionality to use the app even when your phone screen is turned off.
• Supported in a whopping 120 languages .
• Support for 20 user interface languages.

5. Speech To Text Converter

From translating your voice into text to sharing your thoughts across various platforms, Speech To Text Converter is one of the best free speech to text applications for Android.

• Supports dictation in all languages.
• Recite the option to operate the app even when your phone screen is turned off.
• Headset button control.
• Support for an impressive 120 languages .
• 20 user interface languages , including English.
• Simply press the microphone button and start speaking to create notes.
• Listen to your transcribed notes through Android’s TTS engine.

6. Speechnotes – Speech To Text

Speechnotes – Speech To Text is trusted by millions for this app offers continuous, non-stop, and unlimited dictation capabilities, perfect for all those seeking an easy, fast, and accurate method of transcription. Unlike other voice-typing applications, Speechnotes doesn’t interrupt when you pause, allowing you to dictate freely.

• Seamlessly transition to manual typing for punctuation and symbols.
• Google Drive backup to safeguard your notes.
• Keyboard shortcuts to insert timestamps.
• Simple and lightweight interface for both extensive dictation and regular text notes.
• Offline functionality for increased performance.
• Edit text while still in dictation mode.
• Auto capitalization and spacing.
• Features a widget for quick transcription .

Also Read: How to Use Text to Speech Android

7. Speech To Text | Voice To Text

Speech To Text is an app that offers a dynamic platform to create live transcriptions through voice dictation, allowing your spoken words to be transformed into written form.

• Create voice notes, dictation to text, speech notes, voice texts, and more.
• Continuous transcription without requiring repeated presses of the record button.
• High accuracy as it utilizes a top-notch speech recognizer
• Save transcribed voice-to-text as text files or PDF files.
• Supports over 30 languages for voice-to-text conversion.
• An active internet connection is necessary for its functionality.

8. Transkriptor: Transcribe Speech to Text

Transkriptor is a remarkable speech-to-text app that converts audio and voice into text seamlessly. No matter the file format, Transkriptor empowers you to convert audio and video into text, offering 90 minutes of free transcription to test its accuracy.

• Create subtitles for videos by generating SRT files .
• Transcribe voice memos from platforms like WhatsApp , ensuring you never lose important information.
• Convert various file formats like m4a, wav, mp4, and mp3 to text effortlessly.
• Free trial option, allowing you to assess the app’s performance firsthand.
• Multi-speaker speeches and meetings with verbatim group transcribing.
• Powered by advanced A.I ., it boasts an accuracy rate of up to 99%.
• App’s accuracy improves daily as it learns speech patterns.

9. Otter: Transcribe Voice Notes

Otter is an AI-driven meeting assistant that elevates your productivity through seamless transcription, note-taking, and content generation. With AI gaining pace everyday otter is one of the best free speech to text applications for Android.

• Automated meeting notes, ensuring everyone stays in sync and informed.
• Records interviews & lectures and provides live captioning.
• Instantly transcribe discussions in real-time, even highlighting key points for easy review.
• Interactive notes with photos, slide captures, and quotes to maintain a comprehensive record of the conversation.
• Automatically punctuate, capitalize, and format paragraphs while identifying speakers and generating summary keywords.
• Organize conversations into folders, export text as PDF, TXT, or SRT , and back up data to Otter’s cloud.

10. Gboard – the Google Keyboard

Gboard is Google’s premier keyboard application. Offering a blend of speed, reliability, and a plethora of features, Gboard is designed to make typing efficient and enjoyable.

• Swiftly type by gliding your finger from letter to letter.
• Dictate text while you’re on the move.
• Handwritten cursive and printed letters to add personal flair.
• Emoji Search: Find the perfect emoji quickly and efficiently to convey your emotions accurately.
• Search and share GIFs for expressive reactions that add depth to your conversations.
• Translate as you type using the keyboard.
• Supports a multitude of languages, ranging from Afrikaans to Zulu.
• Wear OS support with features like Glide Typing, Voice Typing , and Emoji Typing .

Also Read: 16 Best Speech to Text Apps for Free

11. AI speech to text – Recap

Recap is the revolutionary AI speech-to-text app that leverages cutting-edge OpenAI Whisper technology. Utilizing advanced neural networks and machine learning algorithms, Recap transforms audio recordings into accurate text transcriptions, saving you precious time and energy.

• The intuitive interface allows you to upload, manage, and download transcriptions effortlessly.
• Edit and proofread transcriptions within the app.
• Easily share transcriptions with colleagues or clients.
• Powerful AI recognizes accents , background noise, and multiple speakers in multiple languages.

12. ListNote Speech-to-Text Notes

ListNote Speech-to-Text Notes is the perfect solution for taking notes without the hassle of typing. Designed for simplicity and efficiency, this notepad app is one of the best free speech to text applications for Android and to keep your notes organized.

• All notes are indexed for quick and easy searching.
• Password protection for private notes.
• Share notes via SMS, email, Twitter , or any other app that accepts plain text.
• Accepts plain text from other apps that allow sharing.
• Password-locked notes are encrypted.
• Star important notes for easy retrieval and use color codes to organize and filter your notes.
• Deleted notes are moved to the trash, providing the chance to restore them if needed.

13. Speech To Text: live transcribe

Transcribe is a powerful free voice-to-text app for Android that can help you with attending meetings, classes, interviews, or simply capturing important information. Transcribing simplifies the process and enhances your organizational skills.

• Convert various audio formats into text.
• Share converted text seamlessly on social media.
• Ideal for converting speech from multiple languages into text .
• No limitations on audio conversion quantity.
• Transcribe is available in 100+ languages .
• Organize conversations into personalized folders for easy access.
• Export transcriptions as TXT or audio files.
• Securely access your files from any device.

14. Voice to text

With continuous and unlimited speech recognition, Voice to Text serves as a convenient tool for converting your voice messages into text format. Whether you’re composing long notes, dictations, essays, posts, or reports, Voice to Text simplifies the process and enhances your productivity.

• Easily switch between different languages for speech recognition.
• Supports a custom dictionary feature to set up word replacements during speech recognition.
• No limitation on the size or length of the notes.
• Supports custom keyboards.
• Auto spacing ensures proper formatting, while auto-saving prevents any loss of content.
• Edit the text while dictating.
• Provides word and character counts for your created notes.

Also Read: 10 Keyboard Shortcut Keys for Find and Replace

15. Voice Texter – Speech to Text

Voice Texter is an innovative Speech-to-Text-based converter app that seamlessly transforms your spoken words into written text. With continuous and uninterrupted transcription capabilities, this app is designed to simplify note-taking, transcription, and content creation.

• Control speech recognition with a play/stop button for effortless usability.
• Dynamic audio visualizers display the intensity of your voice.
• Transcribe in over 110 languages .
• Utilizes Google’s Speech Recognition Engine for precise and accurate transcriptions.
• Works without an internet connection for reliable and accurate transcription.
• Auto Formatting capitalizes words, adds punctuations, and adjusts spacing for polished text.
• Voice Commands like “New Line,” “New Paragraph,” and more to structure your text.
• Other features include media integration , export options, backup, and restore.

16. SpeechTexter – Speech to Text

SpeechTexter is a powerful speech-to-text app designed for individuals who need to convert spoken words quickly and efficiently into written text. This app is a deal for busy professionals, journalists, students, and anyone on the move making it one of the best free speech to text applications for Android

• Real-time transcription provides instant results on the screen.
• Choose from over 70 supported languages to ensure accurate transcription.
• Customization by using spoken phrases like question mark to be converted into actual symbols.
• Built-in text editor to make corrections, add punctuation, and format your transcribed text.
• Share transcribed text via text file, email , or social media directly from the app.
• For higher accuracy, access its web version on the website using the Chrome browser on your desktop.

17. Notta Transcribe Audio to Text

Notta is an advanced audio-to-text application that incorporates cutting-edge AI technology, including the powerful GPT-4 assistant. This innovative app not only transcribes audio content into text but also offers an AI assistant called Notta AI. This assistant can summarize text, explain concepts, translate text, create to-do lists, and much more.

• Convert real-time audio to text or import audio and video files for transcription.
• Efficiently converts your favorite podcasts, news, talk radio, Discord chats, and Zoom meetings into easily readable text.
• Playback conversations at various speeds, add notes, mark transcripts, and organize in folders.
• You can translate your transcriptions into up to 42 languages .
• Export transcripts in TXT, DOCX, SRT, or PDF formats for offline access.
• You can record conversations on your phone and edit transcriptions later on Notta Web using devices like Mac, iPad, or PC.

Also Read: 9 Best Android Smartphones with Keyboards

18. Voice Text – Text Voice

Voice Text allows you to effortlessly convert spoken words into text using Speech Recognition. It offers continuous voice recognition and the option to choose from different interpretations of your speech. On the other hand, Text to Voice allows you to type any text, and the app’s digital voice will read it aloud using Text to Speech technology. It’s even possible to listen to books through this functionality.

• A compact and scrollable keyboard that can be positioned interchangeably.
• Compatibility with txt files.
• Ability to save notes as files or audio.
• List of files for easy management .
• Copying audio and text files into the app.
• Sharing text and files with other apps on your device.

19. Voice Writer

Voice Writer is one of the best free speech to text applications for Android. With this app, results can be easily shared via various platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Hike, email, and more.

• Simply speak, and the app will automatically transcribe your speech onto the screen in the language you’ve spoken.
• The home tab allows you to directly convert your voice into text . Speak your message, and it will be instantly displayed on the screen.
• In the translate tab, you can select both the input and output languages. Speak in the chosen input language , and the app will echo the converted text in the selected output language.

20. Speech Recognition & Synthesis

The Speech Recognition & Synthesis app harnesses the incredible capabilities of Google’s advanced text-to-speech and speech-to-text technology. By integrating this technology into your device, you unlock a wide range of functionalities that enhance your communication, accessibility, and productivity.

• Navigating with Google Maps through voice-searched locations.
• Transcribing your device’s recordings using the Recorder App .
• Providing real-time transcriptions of incoming calls through the Phone App Call Screen feature.
• Enhancing accessibility apps such as Voice Access , allowing you to operate your device using voice commands.
• Dictating messages and text through keyboard or dictation apps.
• Speeding up searches in voice-powered apps .
• Aiding language learning apps to recognize and practice new languages.

21. TranscribeMe

TranscribeMe is a cutting-edge voice-to-text transcription app that offers fast, precise, and budget-friendly transcription services, starting at an affordable rate of $0.79 per audio minute.

• Choose from various transcription preferences, such as full verbatim transcription, multi-speaker recognition , or specialized needs like legal or medical transcription.
• Ensures 98-100% accuracy by utilizing a combination of advanced speech recognition technology and skilled human transcribers.
• The choice is to upload your files over Wi-Fi to prevent data overages or use cellular data to expedite the order process.
• Transcription in a variety of formats including Word, PDF, HTML, and NVivo-compatible files .
• Data security through the utilization of Microsoft Azure and a crowd-sourced micro-task transcription process.
• Multi-speaker transcripts include timestamps and speaker identifications.
• Transcriptions can be effortlessly shared with friends and colleagues via email or text.

Also Read: 10 Best GIF Keyboard Apps for Android

22. Voice Memos, SpeechNotes, VoNo

VoNo is an innovative thought capture app designed for quick and effortless recording of Speech Notes, Voice Memos, Text Notes, Picture Memos, and Reminders with just a single tap. The app caters to a wide range of users, including thinkers, bloggers, writers, drivers, joggers, and anyone seeking fast and easy memo creation making it one of the best free speech to text applications for Android.

• Voice-to-text is available in over 50 languages , ensuring wide usability.
• Create Picture Memos by capturing single or multiple images and adding accompanying text lines.
• Generate Reminders and integrate them into your Native Calendar.
• Send Speech Notes, Voice Memos, Text Notes, or Picture Notes to yourself and others via email.
• Seamlessly integrating with popular productivity apps like Evernote and Dropbox.
• Utilize the VoNo smartwatch app to extend the capabilities of the main app.

23. Voice to Text – TransVoice

TransVoice is a cutting-edge and user-friendly free voice to text app for Android designed to enhance communication and break down language barriers. This free app is equipped with advanced AI technology to ensure accurate translations and seamless conversions.

• Supports long-time recording while maintaining a record of translations.
• Sort recordings by time, making it easy to quickly find the conversations you need.
• Supports text translation and reading.
• It can convert videos with audio into text , enabling you to capture and save favorite passages for repeated listening.
• Convert web pages into audio for on-the-go information consumption.

24. Transcriber for WhatsApp

Transcriber for WhatsApp app enables you to convert voice messages into text format, allowing for discreet communication in situations where listening to messages is not feasible or desirable. This innovative app caters to various scenarios where voice messages may be inconvenient or impractical, such as crowded places, quiet environments, or moments requiring discretion.

• It allows you to listen to transcribed voice messages without activating the blue checkmark.
• It caters to individuals with hearing impairments by offering them the autonomy to read transcribed messages, ensuring they are not excluded from the conversation.
• It is designed to occupy minimal space on your device.

Also Read: 10 Best Android Keyboard Apps of 2023

25. Speech To Text

Speech To Text app leverages Android’s built-in Speech Recognizer to provide a seamless conversion from speech to text. Additionally, the app boasts a feature that allows it to audibly speak the generated text using your device’s Text-to-Speech (TTS) engine. It is indeed a good contender for the best free speech to text applications for Android.

• Once converted, the text can be conveniently sent as an SMS , an email, or copied and pasted into another app.
• It can also vocalize the generated text using your device’s Text-to-Speech Engine .
• The app features a cutting-edge sliding tab design making it even more straightforward to use.

From busy schedules to bursts of inspiration, these free speech-to-text apps for Android offer convenience at your fingertips. If you have any queries or suggestions for us, do let us know in the comments box below. For more such tips, stay connected to TechCult.

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Otter review

Our otter review uncovers everything you should know about this popular app.

TechRadar Verdict

Otter is one of the most popular speech-to-text apps in the world. It’s not perfect, but its fast, accurate transcriptions, speaker identification, and streamlined management tools are.

Fast, accurate real-time transcription

User-friendly interface

No live chat support

Can be expensive

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Otter is one of the best speech-to-text apps available, and it basically enables users to transcribe voice conversations. It’s available on desktop, Android, and iOS devices, and there is a limited free plan for new users to try it out.  

In this Otter review, we’ve analyzed every aspect of this popular program. It is affordable, intuitive, and extremely easy to get started with. Additionally, Otter is suitable for everyone from freelancers to those who need to record and transcribe meetings or group conversations. 

Otter: Plans and pricing 

Otter offers three plans which vary according to the tools and features they include. The free Basic subscription is the simplest available and enables users to record up to 600 minutes of audio per month. This can then be played back, exported as text, or edited with a variety of tools. Speaker identification is also available.

A Premium subscription costs $8.33 per user per month if you pay annually ($9.99 with monthly payments). You’ll get up to 6000 minutes of audio recording, along with a selection of more advanced features.

Finally, a Teams subscription costs $12.50 per month per user ($14.99 with monthly payments). It includes everything in the Premium plan, along with team management tools such as user statistics and centralized billing.

Otter: Features 

 with a great range of features. For starters, it enables users to record and automatically transcribe conversations using either their phone or their computer. On top of this, it has the ability to recognize and differentiate between different speakers.

Otter also enables users to edit and manage transcriptions directly in-app. Audio records can be played back at different speeds, and images and other content can be inserted directly into transcriptions. You can even import audio and video files to be transcribed. 

Otter: Setup 

Setting up a new Otter account is extremely straightforward and shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. To get started, all you need to do is create a free account. You can connect with your Apple , Google , or Microsoft login, or you can create a new account by entering a few basic personal details. 

If you’re using Otter on your smartphone, you will also need to download the app from the Android Play Store or Apple App Store. On desktop devices, just log in to your new account and start using the web interface. A comprehensive getting started guide is also available if you run into problems.  

Otter: Interface 

Overall, the Otter user interface is very well-designed and intuitive. It includes the necessary tools, such as a record button, an import button, and a record of recent activity. A quick tutorial is also available from the main dashboard to guide you through the basics. 

The navigation menu on the left of the screen provides access to both past recordings and files that have been shared with you. Specific conversations can be found using the built-in search bar, and users can even create and manage groups and folders. 

Otter: Performance 

Otter performs extremely well, with little waiting time and fast, accurate voice-to-text transcriptions. We tested it on a laptop computer without a microphone or headset, and it still identified different speakers clearly, with very few mistakes. Issues can arise when multiple people are speaking at once, but that’s to be expected. 

Meanwhile, Otter’s extra processing tools are great as well. The entire program is smooth, and the editing process is straightforward. 

Similarly, uploading and processing existing audio and video files is simple. Even large files are rapidly imported (depending on your internet connection of course), and then you can store, edit, or transcribe them from audio to text. It is worth noting that even when you upload video files, Otter will only ever save the audio. 

Otter: Support 

When it comes to support, Otter only offers online ticket submission. Queries are sent through the contact page, and any further conversation will be completed via email. Note that paying subscribers will benefit from priority support.  

Alternatively, Otter’s quick start guide and FAQ section are both great resources. The FAQ page contains answers to a wide range of popular questions, and you will likely find it useful when you’re getting started. Similarly, the quick start guide provides clear documentation about each of the program’s features.  

Otter: Final verdict 

Overall, it’s difficult to find anything wrong with Otter. It’s an extremely popular speech-to-text transcription app, and for good reason. For one, its user interface is very well designed, and getting started takes no more than a few minutes. 

What’s more, Otter is available on both desktop and mobile devices. It is versatile, comes with a range of premium features, and excels on the performance front. Customer support can be slow if you run into problems, but you will be prioritized if you upgrade from a free plan.

In reality, Otter is a great choice for anyone looking for a voice-to-text transcription app.

The competition 

Otter is a great speech-to-text app, but there are various alternatives out there that are worth considering. For example, Speechmatics supports both real-time and batch transcriptions in 74 different languages. Its prices vary but it claims to support all accents. Similarly, Braina Pro is a versatile program offering accurate speech to text. It does cost $49 per year, but it comes with an impressive selection of additional business management tools. 

If you want to know more about Otter's competition, then take a look at our Best speech-to-text software guide.

Daniel is a freelance copywriter with over six years experience writing for publications such as TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and Hosting Review. He specializes in B2B and B2C tech and finance, with a particular focus on VoIP, website building, web hosting, and other related fields.

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How to Use Speech-to-Text on Android

Tap the microphone on your keyboard to turn on voice dictation

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In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Step-by-Step Directions
• Available Options
• Voice Dictation Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions

What to Know

• In any text field, tap the microphone icon at the top of the keyboard. Tap it again when you're finished talking.
• To block or unblock offensive words or change the default language, search Settings for Google Voice Typing .

This article explains how to type on your phone using your voice. This works on all devices that run Android regardless of the manufacturer (Google, Samsung, etc.).

Android phones come with a speech-to-text converter that lets you dictate text messages, emails, and other text you'd ordinarily type. It's enabled by default and should work with any app that accepts text input.

Tap the text box so the keyboard shows up.

Tap the microphone icon .

On the Gboard keyboard (the default for many Android phones), it’s in the upper right corner of the keyboard. If you’re using a different keyboard , it might be elsewhere.

Speak into your phone. You should see your speech converted to text automatically.

On some keyboards, you may see a window with a microphone button while you're dictating. Tap this to alternate between recording and pausing.

When you’re done, tap the microphone icon again to make your phone stop listening to you. You can edit the text as normal if necessary, and then send the message.

Speech-to-text conversion is different from using your Android phone to read text aloud to you .

How to Customize Speech-to-Text on Android

Voice typing works out of the box and there isn't much you need to do on the settings side of things. However, there are two options to consider if you need them. You can block or unblock offensive words and choose the language your phone should use when you're converting speech to text. Here's how:

Options may look slightly different depending on your version of Android, but the steps are basically the same.

Go to Settings > System > Keyboard .

On some devices, it's Settings > System > Language and input or Settings > General management > Language and input .

Tap On-screen keyboard .

Tap Google Voice Typing .

If your preferred language isn’t already selected, tap Languages to choose it. If your preferred language isn't already installed, tap Add a Language , then download the language of your choice.

On some phones, you must turn on Offline speech recognition to dictate when there’s no internet connection available.

You can also control the way the speech-to-text engine responds to obscene language. If a potentially offensive word is dictated, by default that word will appear with asterisks. You can control this by toggling Block offensive words on or off.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Speech-to-Text

Typing with your words is a powerful way to save time and work more efficiently since you can almost certainly dictate a message quicker than you can type it. Below are some tips for getting the most out of this feature.

• Speak clearly and slowly . If you talk quickly or slur words together, the speech translation will be less accurate and you'll need to waste time editing it after it's translated.
• Speak punctuation when you talk . It might sound weird at first, but you can create polished, ready-to-send messages by speaking the punctuation as part of the message, such as, "Hello, how are you question mark I am fine period."
• Add entries to the personal dictionary . You can add specialized words you use often, as well as names of people and places Android has trouble understanding. To add to the dictionary, search the Settings app for Personal dictionary . 
• Avoid noisy environments . You’ll get better results by dictating in quiet spaces.

Go to Settings > System or General Management > Language and input > On-screen keyboard and tap the Google voice typing toggle to turn off speech-to-text on Android.

To set up text-to-speech on Android , go to Settings > Accessibility > Select to Speak . Tap the Select to Speak toggle switch to it turn on. In any app, tap the Select to Speak icon > Play to hear the phone read text aloud.

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Keyboard shortcuts

Note: On focused video, in browsers that support HTML 5, use the following shortcuts:

• To play and pause press space.
• Increase volume ↑up arrow, decrease volume ↓(down arrow).

Introducing Live Transcribe video transcript

Illustrations show different styles of communication. One person signs “we” and another writes “all.” Someone types “communicate” on a phone and another says “differently.”

Animated text reads “But Live Transcribe lets you join in.”

A mobile phone using Live Transcribe enters the screen during a meeting scene. One person says “Is it all updated?” and another replies “Yep, everything’s ready.” while the phone displays captions.

Now the animated text reads “Instantly.” The mobile phone re-enters at a coffee shop and transcribes the barista saying “That’ll be $5, please.” Live Transcribe adjusts from spelling out dollars to showing the dollar sign.

Animated text reads “And have conversations with anyone, in any language” while multiple languages are displayed in the background. The Live Transcribe app logo animates as text reads “Right from your Android phone."

Introducing Live Transcribe

Now the hearing and the deaf and hard of hearing can have conversations easily, with just an Android phone.

See instant captions anywhere

Whether you’re ordering a coffee or meeting someone new, Live Transcribe helps you communicate in the moment.

With Live Transcribe, you can see words appear on your Android phone as they’re spoken.

Choose your languages

Pick from over 70 languages and dialects to read accurate captions in the language that’s being spoken.

Quickly switch between languages during bilingual conversations.

And catch important nuances

It’s powered by Google’s speech recognition technology, so the captions adjust as your conversation flows. And since conversations aren’t stored on servers, they stay secure on your device.

If it seems like someone says New York, but they’re actually talking about new Yorkshire terriers, the captions will autocorrect.

All right from your phone

Live Transcribe is easy to use, all you need is a Wi-Fi or network connection. It’s free of charge to download on over 1.8 billion Android devices operating on 5.0 Lollipop and above.

To start, simply use Live Transcribe anywhere, to have conversations with anyone.

Built with expert help

We partnered with Gallaudet University, a premier school for the deaf and hard of hearing, to make sure that Live Transcribe was helpful for everyday use.

Partners at Gallaudet helped with testing and improvements along the way.

A few thoughts from Gallaudet

“We can now do things that weren't even remotely possible a few years ago, like jump into conversations at the dinner table or casually join in when the opportunity arises.” Christian Vogler Professor and Researcher, Gallaudet University.

“Live Transcribe gives me a more flexible and efficient way to communicate with hearing people. I just love it, it really changed the way I solve my communication problem.” Dr. Mohammad Obiedat Professor, Gallaudet University

Ready to get started?

This new Android Accessibility service is available to download as an app on the Google Play store. After installing the app, turn on Live Transcribe in your phone’s Accessibility settings and tap on the app to use it.

If you have a Pixel 3 or above device, simply turn on Live Transcribe in your Accessibility settings.

Have a question or want to share your feedback on Live Transcribe? Find answers to frequently asked questions in our Help Center or contact us via Google Accessibility support .

Top Five AI Speech to Text Apps for Android

Smartphones have become more than just communication devices in the hustle culture of the modern world. They are digital companions intricately woven into the fabric of our daily existence. As we navigate through the complexities of life, the search for convenience and efficiency has led to the evolution of these devices, transforming the way we interact.

This is evident in speech to text applications for Android, where the power of artificial intelligence converges with the simplicity of spoken words to streamline communication and enhance productivity , bridging the gap between human expression and technological advancement.

Beyond the convenience of transcribing spoken words into text, these AI-powered android voice to text tools redefine the boundaries of communication and accessibility. Whether you’re a professional navigating a hectic schedule, a student capturing lecture notes, or an individual with accessibility needs, these apps offer a more efficient and inclusive digital experience. 

Table of Contents

Google gboard, microsoft swiftkey keyboard, speechnotes, dragon anywhere, five best speech to text for android applications.

Speech to text apps for Android enhance accessibility, empowering disabled users for inclusive communication and productivity. In addition, these apps are handy companions for users who seek modern solutions to modern problems. Here is a list of the best speech to text apps for Android devices: 

Google Gboard is not just a keyboard; it’s a multifaceted tool that seamlessly integrates speech to text functionality into the Android phone typing experience. This app’s robust voice recognition capabilities enable users to dictate messages, emails, or notes accurately. Gboard supports multiple languages, making it a versatile choice for a global audience. With its intuitive design and the power of Google voice typing and machine learning algorithms, Gboard adapts to your voice over time, improving accuracy and personalizing the experience.

Key Features

Voice Dictation: Effortlessly convert spoken words into text in real-time.

Gesture Typing: Combine voice input with the convenience of swipe-based typing.

Multilingual Support : Recognizes and transcribes speech in multiple languages.

Smart Suggestions: Predictive text suggestions enhance the efficiency of communication.

Microsoft SwiftKey Keyboard, renowned for its predictive text to speech capabilities, also boasts a robust speech to text functionality. With SwiftKey, users can dictate messages, compose emails, or draft documents by simply speaking after pressing the microphone icon. The app’s advanced language models understand context, ensuring accurate transcription of spoken words. SwiftKey’s adaptability to individual writing styles and the ability to learn from personal preferences make it a reliable choice for users seeking a tailored speech to text experience.

Adaptive Learning: SwiftKey learns from your writing style for enhanced accuracy and personalized suggestions.

Emoji Prediction: Beyond text, the app predicts emojis based on your input.

Cloud Sync: Sync your personalized language models across multiple devices for a consistent experience.

Voice Typing: Activate voice to text for hands-free communication and efficient text creation. 

Speechnotes streamlines note-taking and document creation. Whether you’re in a meeting, lecture, or brainstorming session, Speechnotes transforms your spoken words into text, eliminating the need for manual typing. The app excels in simplicity, offering a clean and user-friendly interface. It supports long-form dictation, making it an ideal companion for writers, students, and professionals seeking a reliable tool for transcribing spoken content by pressing the microphone icon.

Voice Commands: Control punctuation, new lines, and formatting through voice commands.

Offline Mode: Work without an internet connection, ensuring offline speech recognition in various environments.

Text Editing: Easily edit and format transcribed text within the app.

Export Options: Share your transcriptions through multiple platforms and applications.

Developed by Nuance Communications, Dragon Anywhere is a professional-grade speech to text app, available on Google Play Store and goes beyond basic transcription. Tailored for business and productivity, Dragon Anywhere allows users to create detailed documents, reports, and emails by speaking out loud. The app’s advanced voice recognition technology ensures high accuracy, even in complex and technical domains. With powerful customization options and cloud synchronization, Dragon Anywhere is a top choice for professionals who demand precision in their voice to text conversions.

Professional Vocabulary: Specialized language models for accurate transcription in various industries.

Custom Commands: Create custom voice commands for frequently used phrases or actions.

Cloud Sync: Access your documents across devices with seamless cloud integration.

Editing and Formatting: Efficiently edit and format text using voice commands.

Otter.ai takes speech to text to the next level by incorporating advanced AI capabilities for automatic transcription and note organization. Ideal for meetings, interviews, or brainstorming sessions, Otter provides real-time transcriptions with speaker identification. The speech to text app captures natural conversations and offers team collaboration features. Otter’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for individuals who require intelligent and context-aware transcriptions. 

Real-time Transcription: Instantly transcribe spoken words into text during live conversations.

Speaker Identification: Recognizes and labels different speakers for clarity in multi-person discussions.

Collaboration Tools: Share and collaborate on transcriptions with team members.

Keyword Search: Easily locate specific content within transcriptions using keyword search.

Summing Up 

The integration of artificial intelligence, adaptive learning, and specialized features for various industries underscores the versatility of speech to text technology on Android platforms. From the seamless integration of Google Gboard to the sophisticated transcription capabilities of Dragon Anywhere to the collaborative features of Otter.ai, each leading speech to text app brings its unique strengths to the forefront.

Ultimately, the best software choice comes down to individual preferences and specific use cases. Whether you prioritize real-time collaboration, industry-specific vocabulary, or intuitive voice commands, the diverse options ensure there’s a perfect tool for everyone. 

Is there an app that converts audio to text?

Yes, several apps, such as Otter.ai, Dragon Anywhere, and Speechnotes, excel at converting audio to text. These apps use advanced speech recognition technology to accurately transcribe spoken words into written text. 

Does Android have a speech to text app?

Absolutely, Android users can leverage the built-in Google Keyboard, also known as Gboard, which seamlessly integrates speech to text functionality. Additionally, third-party Android speech to text apps like Speechnotes and Microsoft SwiftKey Keyboard offer enhanced speech recognition features. 

Can I edit transcriptions in these apps?

Yes, most speech to text apps provide robust editing capabilities. Features like voice-controlled editing in Google’s Gboard, text editing in Speechnotes, and customization options in Dragon Anywhere allow users to refine transcriptions for accuracy and clarity.

You should also read:

How to Dictate Text on Android Devices 

How Speech Recognition is Changing Language Learning

Future of AI in Speech Recognition 

The 7 Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Android

Text-to-speech is a handy feature on your Android phone even if you don't have a disability. These text-to-speech apps take it to the next level.

Every Android user should keep a text-to-speech app handy. You don't need to have a vision impairment to enjoy the benefits. For example, they'll let you listen to the news on your morning commute, catch up with new text messages in bed, or even enjoy your favorite eBooks without looking at the screen.

But which Android text-to-speech apps are the best? Keep reading to find out.

1. Android's Native Text-to-Speech Feature

Android has lots of accessibility tools that make a phone easier to use. One of the tools is a native text-to-speech function. The feature has fewer customizable settings than some of its competitors, but you can adjust the speech rate and pitch and install additional languages.

To change the text-to-speech settings, head to Settings > Accessibility > Text-to-speech output .

Android's text-to-speech feature automatically works with other Google apps that offer a read-aloud feature. For all other apps, you'll need to enable Select to Speak in Android's settings menu, which you'll find at Settings > Accessibility > Select to Speak . To use it, select text in any app and choose Speak from the popup menu.

If you only want basic text-to-speech functionality, you can stop here. The other options are only worth exploring if you need more features.

2. Voice Aloud Reader

Voice Aloud Reader is easy to use and supports a few different ways of reading text. If the app from which you want to read text has a share feature, just send the content to Voice Aloud Reader using the native Android Share menu . This also works for on-screen items that have their own share buttons, like tweets and Facebook posts.

Similarly, if the text you want to read is selectable, you can use the Share button in the popup context menu.

The app also works with URLs. Just paste the site's (or article's) address into Voice Aloud Reader, and it will automatically parse and read the relevant text for you. It's intelligent enough to strip out the menus and other junk. You can even add text files (like DOC and PDF) directly into the app; it can open the files and read their contents.

Download: Voice Aloud Reader (Free)

3. Narrator's Voice

Narrator's Voice offers something a bit different. The usual features are here: it is an app that reads text from apps, the web, messages, and other sources.

However, the app also has a fun side. You can add various sound effects to the speech synthesis, such as echo, reverb, gargle, and choir. It features a wide selection of voices to choose from. Some tech favorites like Cortana and Siri are present, as are some of the developer's own creations like "Steven" and "Pink Sheep" (don't ask).

Additionally, Narrator's Voice lets you add your own text, which it will then run through its synthesizer. It makes the app a great way to add a voiceover to video narrations, slideshow presentations, and more. You can even save your audio output file as an MP3, store it offline, and share it with friends.

An in-app purchase removes the ads.

Download: Narrator's Voice (Free, in-app purchases available)

Talk takes a more minimal approach than Voice Aloud Reader and Narrator's Voice, but it is still one of the best free text-to-speech apps for Android. The app can import web pages directly from your phone's browser or read the text from other third-party apps. You can export all the audio files and save them offline in the WAV format.

It's important to note that Talk Free relies on your phone's pre-existing text-to-speech (TTS) engine to work. Most Android devices will already have Google's engine installed. If you have deleted your phone's TTS engine, you can re-download Speech Recognition & Synthesis free from the Play Store.

The benefit of using Google's TTS engine is its support for lots of languages. If Google offers the language, Talk can generally work with it.

Download: Talk (Free)

T2S is a text-to-speech app that offers one of the most modern interfaces out of the apps we've discussed so far.

The app's standout feature is the presence of a simple built-in web browser. It's not going to win any awards for the number of features it offers, but it lets you easily listen to web pages without worrying about copying and pasting URLs or using the Share menu.

T2S's copy-to-speak feature is also worth mentioning. It shows an on-screen popup button whenever you copy text into other apps. Pressing the button will make the app start reading the copied text instantly. As with the other apps on this list, T2S lets you save your audio readouts and share them with other people. The pro version removes ads.

Download: T2S (Free, in-app purchases available)

6. NaturalReader

With AI being all the buzz, we ought to include an AI-powered solution to this list. NaturalReader offers almost 150 AI voices in different languages and over 25 dialects so that you can customize your text-to-speech experience to your liking.

The app can run in the background, so you can use other apps while listening to content. Moreover, it supports over 20 document formats, including PDF, DOCX, and eBook formats.

Other than the usual text-to-speech features, you can also use NaturalReader to detect and read text from images. This feature can come in super handy if you deal with a lot of scanned documents.

This feature is not perfect yet, but it works. If you're not satisfied with the built-in image-to-text functionality, you can convert images to text using OCR apps and then use NaturalReader for text-to-speech.

Download: NaturalReader (Free, in-app purchases available)

We'll leave you with a slightly left-field choice: Pocket. You probably already know it as one of the best apps to save articles to read later when you're offline.

You may not know, however, that Pocket also has a text-to-speech reader. The feature supports multiple voices and languages and includes adjustable pitch and speed. It even supports background playback, meaning you can keep listening while you use other apps.

Because the text-to-speech reader is one of Pocket's native features, it's great when you want to listen to some long-form content on a journey when you are without the internet. Obviously, if you want to listen to text from all your apps, this isn't the right choice for you.

Download: Pocket (Free, premium version available)

The Top Text-to-Voice Apps

Hopefully, you now appreciate the benefits of keeping a text-to-speech app installed on your Android device. Once you become more familiar with their use, you'll start to rely on the apps a lot more. Don't believe us? Try a couple, stick with them for a week or two, and thank us later!

There's also an opposite way of communicating with your Android device, that is, speech-to-text. Such apps are particularly great for note-taking.

8 Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Android

Reading the tiny text on a mobile screen is never a pleasant experience. Especially when you are using an Android device with a super bright screen. Additionally, visually impaired or elders might also have problems reading web pages, ebooks, PDFs, and other files. In those situations, you can make good use of text to speech apps to listen to text files, ebooks, and web pages instead of reading. Here are some of the best text to speech apps for Android.

If mentioned otherwise, most of TTS apps on Android uses the built-in Google Text-to-Speech engine. In general, most Android devices have Google Text to Speech preinstalled and enabled. So, you don’t have to worry about it.

Read:  Make your Devices Read Out Text, With Text to Speech

1. Native Text-to-Speech Feature

I guess you didn’t know this already, but turn out, like macOS Android also has a native Text-to-to-Speech feature, which works in selective Google apps.

To use the native TTS feature, simply select any piece of text say in the Chrome browser, and then tap on translate option (you might have to install Google translate app if you don’t see translate option).

A new pop will open, make sure the language is set to English and then tap on the small speakerphone icon on top of the output language. And that’s it. Your phone will start reading out text for you. You can even translate it in a different language. However, there are few shortcomings such as the audio stops as you turn off the screen and lack further customization.

By default, it’s already enabled on most stock Android but you can always enable this feature by going to Settings > System > Language and input > Text-to-Speech, or simply do a search for ‘speech’ in the settings. From here you can also change the pitch, select a different TTS engine (Google being the default), etc.

2. TK Solution – Text to Speech (TTS)

TK Solution’s Text to Speech is a very minimal and straightforward app that can effectively convert text to speech. Just install the app, enter the text and tap on the play button to listen to it. You can load or save text directly from the app. Alternatively, you can also dictate text by tapping on the Mic icon.

Moreover, you can change the speed and pitch of the TTS (Text to Speech) voice. Unfortunately, there is no way to change the voice, you are stuck with the default one. If need be, you can save the TTS audio as a WAV file so that you can use it offline or share it with your friends or family.

Price:  The app is free and has ads. You can remove ads with an in-app purchase of $0.99.

Install TK Solution- Text to Speech ( Android )

3. Talk FREE

Talk Free is another popular and minimal text to speech app. Using your internet connection, Talk Free can convert text in many languages. Do keep in mind that Talk Free makes use of the built-in TTS engine . If you have it disabled or uninstalled, you need to install or enable it before you can use Talk Free.

Also, since Talk Free uses the built-in TTS Engine, you need to change the settings of that engine to modify pitch or voice. Additionally, you can import text or read web pages directly from the app . For offline and sharing purposes you can save the speech as a WAV file.

Must Read: Best Speech to Text Apps for Transcribing Notes

Price:  The app is free and contains ads. To remove the ads, you can purchase the  pro version  for $2.

Install Talk Free ( Android )

4. Narrator’s Voice

As you can tell from the name itself, Narrator’s Voice is not your regular run of the mill text to speech app. By default, Narrator’s Voice uses the regular voice while converting text to speech. However, you can manipulate that voice by adding various effects like echo, reverb, gargle, compressor, chorus, etc. Of course, you can also choose between a wide range of voices like Cortana, Zira, Steven, etc.

The best part is, you can use the voice effects offline , no need for an Internet connection. That being said, there are specific effects like Goku, Charmander, Articuno, etc., that require you to have an active Internet connection.

To add the text to Narrator’s Voice app, you can either paste the text or upload the text file by clicking on the “text” button. Once you are done with converting, you can save it as an audio file for offline usage .

Price:  The app is free and contains ads. To remove the ads, you can upgrade to the pro version for a whopping $15. Alternatively, you can buy in-app coins and use them to remove ads for a certain number of days.

Install Narrator’s Voice ( Android )

5. iSpeech Translator

Originally started as a decent Text to Speech app, iSpeech Translator has shifted its way to the translation model. The app can be used to translate text into different languages instantly. You can type the words in the empty space and it gets translated to the language of your choice in the box below. It not only translates the text in other languages, but it also gives you the translated text which you can copy to the clipboard. To translate, you can either type the sentence or use the mic to input the text .

It supports more than 50 languages and you can translate it between the two languages at any given moment.

Price: iSpeech Translator app is completely free on the Play Store and doesn’t have any ads.

Install iSpeech Translator ( Android )

6. T2S: Text to Voice

The next app, T2S implements text-to-speech in a more practical and efficient way. You can create or open a text file and convert the words to speech instantly. The app also lets you record and export the speech as an audio file. It uses Google Text-to-Speech Engine as it’s primary API but you can change that in Settings.  You can adjust Pitch and Speech rate to your liking and decide a phrase segmentation mode.

Copy to Speak is a nice addition to the app where you can simply copy a text from any app and convert it to speech right there . It works great. Type Speak is another great feature where the text is converted as you type. This is great for people who need assistance in communication. The best feature of this app is probably the browser mode, it translates the text of the webpage on the go. Simply, type the URL and tap play, it starts reading out the text from the webpage.

Price:  T2S is free on the Play Store and has ads. You can remove the ads by purchasing the Pro version for around $2.

Install T2S: Text to Voice ( Android )

If you are already using the pocket app to bookmark your favorite article, then you don’t need any third-party TTS app. Pocket, the popular read-later app, also comes with its own TTS feature. Simply, share the web page to the Pocket Android app, and then use its TTS feature to make it read out loud . The app uses built-in voices engine to read your articles out loud.

Price : Pocket is a freemium app, however, the fully functional TTS features is available in the free version.

Install Pocket ( Android )

8. @Voice Aloud Reader

I personally use this app for all my TTS needs. Just like all the other TTS app in the list, you can not only share a web page from your browser but it also supports all major text format like – TXT, PDF, DOC, DOCX, RTF, OpenOffice documents, EPUB, MOBI, PRC, AZW, and FB2 ebooks etc.

You can increase or decrease the playback speed . I’ve tried listening to some really long articles (almost a book) with Voice Aloud Reader and it works fine. You can pause and play the audio even after a day. And if you are someone like me who listen to articles before going to bed, well the good news is, the app also comes with a night mode and sleep timer.

Price:  The app is free to use and contains ads.

Install @Voice Aloud Reader ( Android )

9. Voice Access

Much like Pocket, Google’s Voice access is not exactly a TTS app. The app is made by Google for visually impaired people.

If you are looking for a TTS app that lets you control your entire phone by voice, go for Voice Access. Once installed, the app displays a Voice Access places a number next to each element on your screen . You can just tell the phone to “tap [number]” and it will automatically do it for you.

Read:  Sites That Are Like Audible, But Free

Price:  Voice Access is free to use with no ads. However, the app is in beta mode for the past 2 years, so your mileage may vary.

Install Voice Access ( Android )

Best Text-to-Speech Apps for Android

So, these were some of the best text-to-speech apps you can try. Overall, TTS has come a long way in the last few years and it’s only bound to get better. For instance, Google is working a WaveNet, which converts text to speech using AI. In fact, you can check out how WaveNet sounds for yourself below from here . Similarly, Amazon is also releasing Amazon Polly’s API to developers to make TTS apps such as Audiobooks Reader . If you are not sure what Amazon Polly is, well, it’s what Alexa is built on.

Comment below sharing your thoughts and experiences about using the above text to speech apps for Android.

Read:  Best Audiobook Apps for Android

Vamsi Krishna

Vamsi is a tech geek who enjoys writing how-to guides and tinkering with computers and software in general. He especially loves using Windows and writing about it. You can check out his Windows guides at WindowsLoop .

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15 Best Text-to-Speech Apps in 2024

Discover the 15 best text-to-speech apps in 2024 for natural-sounding voices. Learn about top TTS apps like Listening.com, their features, pricing, pros, and cons. Find the perfect text-to-speech solution for your needs.

Derek Pankaew

Jun 2, 2024

Artificial Intelligence

Text to Speech

In 2024, text-to-speech apps have become a game-changer for optimizing productivity. They allow users to consume content on the go, multitask efficiently, and access information easily. These apps have transformed the way people interact with digital content.

The demand for text-to-speech technology is skyrocketing. In this blog post, we will explore the best text to speech apps in 2024, including free and paid options.

We aim to help readers find the perfect solution for their needs, so you can achieve your goals and save time.

What is Text-to-Speech Technology?

Text-to-speech (TTS) technology converts written text into natural-sounding speech, making it easier to consume and engage with written content. TTS has revolutionized content creation and improved accessibility for individuals with disabilities , language barriers, or learning difficulties.

The benefits of TTS software include increased accessibility, improved content consumption, and enhanced user experience.

How to Choose the Best Text-to-Speech App

When choosing a TTS app, it's essential to consider factors like natural-sounding speech, customization options, and ease of use.

Key features to look for include realistic AI voices, multilingual support, and integration with popular platforms.

To ensure natural-sounding speech, look for apps that offer realistic AI voices, customizable speech patterns, and adjustable tone and pitch.

Additionally, consider the app's ability to handle complex sentences, idioms, and colloquialisms.

The best TTS apps will offer customizable speech patterns, tone, and pitch, support for multiple languages and accents, and seamless integration with popular platforms like YouTube, Google Slides, and Canva.

Top 15 Text-to-Speech Apps in 2024

1. listening.

Listening.com is an AI-powered text-to-speech app that offers a wide range of features to enhance your auditory experience. As the world's first app for listening to academic papers, it allows you to easily convert research papers, journals, PDFs, or any written text into high-quality, natural-sounding speech.

With Listening.com, you can choose from various AI voices in multiple languages making it an ideal solution for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions .

We chose Listening.com as the best text-to-speech app among others due to its exceptional features and performance. The platform offers an unparalleled selection of realistic AI voices that closely mimic human speech giving users a natural and engaging listening experience.

Additionally, Listening.com supports a wide range of languages making it accessible to users worldwide. The platform's user-friendly interface and customization options allow users to tailor the speech output to their specific needs, while its API-based solutions enable seamless integration with various applications and systems.

Listening Pricing:

• Free: Unlimited listening experience for 3 days
• Paid: $19.99/month or $125/year

How to Download Listening:

• Visit the iOS App Store or Google Play Store
• Download the Listening Chrome Extension
• Use Web App
• User-friendly interface
• Extensive language support
• Realistic voices
• Customizable AI voice options
• The free version has limitations

Easily pronounces technical words in any field

2. Balabolka

Balabolka is a powerful text to speech software that offers a wide range of features that convert text into natural-sounding speech. The software supports various audio formats and allows users to customize the speech output by adjusting parameters such as reading speed, pitch, and volume.

Balabolka also includes a built-in text editor, which enables users to create, edit, and save text documents directly within the application.

Balabolka Pricing:

• Completely free to use
• No hidden costs or subscription fees

How to Download Balabolka:

• Click on the download link for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions
• Fully customizable speech output
• Supports multiple audio formats
• Includes a built-in text editor
• Allows for batch file processing
• Compatible with various operating systems
• User interface may appear dated compared to some modern apps
• Requires installation on a computer (no mobile app available)
• Some users may find the advanced settings overwhelming initially

3. Cloud Google Text to Speech

Cloud Google Text-to-Speech is a cloud-based text-to-speech tool that uses Google's cutting-edge AI technology to transform text into high-quality, natural-sounding speech.

The service offers various AI voices in multiple languages and supports different audio formats.

Cloud Google Text-to-Speech provides an easy-to-use API that allows developers to integrate the service into their applications, making it an ideal solution for businesses and developers looking to add text-to-speech functionality to their projects.

Cloud Google Text to Speech Pricing:

• Pay-as-you-go pricing model
• Free tier available with limited monthly usage
• Pricing varies based on the number of characters processed and the specific features used

How to Download Cloud Google Text to Speech:

• Sign up for a Google Cloud account
• Enable the Cloud Text-to-Speech API in your project
• Use the provided API to integrate text-to-speech functionality into your application
• Manage your usage and billing through the Google Cloud Console
• High-quality, natural-sounding voices powered by Google's AI technology
• Supports a wide range of languages and voices
• Offers customization options for pitch, speaking rate, and volume gain
• Provides an easy-to-use API for integration with various applications
• Scalable and reliable cloud-based service
• Requires a Google Cloud account and some technical knowledge to set up and use
• Pay-as-you-go pricing may be more expensive for high-volume usage compared to some fixed-price alternatives
• Some users may prefer a standalone application rather than an API-based service

4. NaturalReaders

NaturalReader is a user-friendly text-to-speech software that offers high-quality, natural-sounding voices for converting written text into spoken words.

This text-to-speech tool supports a wide range of file formats, including PDF, DOC, EPUB, and web pages, making it easy to convert various types of content. NaturalReader also offers a Chrome extension and a mobile app, allowing users to access the text-to-speech functionality across multiple devices.

NaturalReaders Pricing:

• Free version available with limited features
• Personal license: $99.50 (one-time payment)
• Professional license: $199.50 (one-time payment)
• Ultimate license: $299.50 (one-time payment)

How to Download NaturalReaders:

• Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows or macOS)
• Supports a wide range of file formats
• Offers a Chrome extension and mobile app for cross-device access
• Provides high-quality, natural-sounding AI voices
• Includes features like voice customization and speed control
• Free version has limited features compared to paid versions
• One-time payment licenses may be more expensive upfront compared to subscription-based alternatives
• Some advanced features, such as OCR and batch processing, are only available in higher-tier licenses

5. TTSMaker

TTSMaker is an online text-to-speech software that allows users to create high-quality, natural-sounding voiceovers for various purposes, such as videos, podcasts , and e-learning materials.

The platform offers a wide selection of AI-generated voices in multiple languages, along with customization options for pitch, speed, and emphasis.

TTSMaker also provides an intuitive interface that enables users to easily create and manage their projects.

TTSMaker Pricing:

• Free trial available with limited features
• Basic plan: $9 per month
• Pro plan: $19 per month
• Business plan: $49 per month
• Custom enterprise pricing available upon request

How to Use TTSMaker:

• Sign up for a free trial or choose a paid plan
• Create a new project and upload your script or type it directly into the platform
• Select your desired voice, language, and customization options
• Generate the voiceover and download the audio file
• Provides high-quality, natural-sounding voices

6. ReadAloud

ReadAloud is a versatile text-to-speech browser extension that enables users to listen to web pages, PDF files, and Google Docs with realistic voices. The extension supports multiple languages and offers customization options for reading speed, pitch, and volume.

ReadAloud also provides a highlighting feature that visually emphasizes the text being read, making it easier to follow along.

ReadAloud Pricing:

• Premium version: $4.99 per month or $29.99 per year
• Lifetime license: $99.99 (one-time payment)

How to Use ReadAloud:

• Click on the "Add to Chrome" or "Add to Firefox" button, depending on your browser
• Confirm the installation by clicking "Add extension" in the pop-up window
• The ReadAloud icon will appear in your browser's toolbar
• Easy to use and install as a browser extension
• Supports 55+ languages and natural-sounding voices
• Offers customization options for reading speed, pitch, and volume
• Provides a text highlighting feature for better visual tracking
• Integrates seamlessly with web pages, PDF files, and Google Docs
• Free version has limited features and may include advertisements
• Some advanced features, such as MP3 downloads and premium voices, are only available in the paid versions
• Currently only available for Chrome and Firefox browsers

7. Speechify

Speechify is an innovative text-to-speech software that turns written content into natural-sounding audio. With Speechify, users can listen to documents, articles, PDFs, and ebooks on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Like other text to speech tools, they offer a wide selection of high-quality voices in multiple languages and provide features like adjustable reading speed, text highlighting, and offline playback.

Speechify Pricing:

• Premium version: $139 per year
• Exclusive Founders Club membership: $999 (lifetime access)

How to Use Speechify:

• For mobile devices, install the app from the App Store or Google Play Store
• For desktop, download the appropriate version for your operating system and follow the installation instructions
• Offers high-quality, custom AI voices in 60+ languages
• Supports various document formats, including PDF, DOCX, and EPUB
• Provides features like adjustable reading speed, text highlighting, and offline playback
• Available on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and desktop
• Integrates with popular apps like Evernote, Pocket, and Instapaper
• Annual subscription price for the premium version may be higher compared to some competitors
• Lifetime access through the Founders Club membership is expensive, although it offers exclusive benefits

Murf is a powerful AI-driven text-to-speech software that enables users to create realistic voices for various content types, including videos, podcasts, and presentations.

The platform offers a wide range of natural-sounding AI voices in multiple languages and accents, along with advanced features like voice customization, lip-syncing, and audio editing.

Murf's AI voice generator allows users to do voice cloning and easily create professional-grade voiceovers without requiring any technical expertise.

Murf Pricing:

• Basic plan: $19 per month
• Pro plan: $39 per month
• Enterprise plan: Custom pricing based on requirements

How to Use Murf:

• Choose a plan that suits your needs or start with the free trial
• Select your desired AI voice, language, and accent
• Wide selection of high-quality AI voices in 50+ languages and accents
• Advanced voice customization options for voice cloning
• Lip-syncing feature for creating realistic video voiceovers
• Audio editing tools for fine-tuning the voice generation
• Free trial has limited features and usage restrictions
• Some advanced features, like lip-syncing and audio editing, may only be available in higher-tier plans
• Pricing may be higher compared to some other text-to-speech platforms

Lovo is an AI-powered text-to-speech software that offers a wide range of custom AI voices in multiple languages and accents. The platform is designed to help content creators, marketers, and developers generate high-quality voiceovers for various applications, such as videos, podcasts, and digital assistants.

Lovo's advanced AI technology ensures that the generated speech is expressive, emotional, and human-like, making it suitable for various use cases.

Lovo Pricing:

• Pay-as-you-go pricing: $0.0019 per character
• Custom enterprise pricing is available upon request

How to Use Lovo:

• Select your desired voice, language, and accent
• Generate the voiceover and download the audio file or use the provided embed code
• Wide selection of natural voices in 60+ languages and accents
• Advanced machine learning for generating expressive and emotional speech
• Offers customization options for voice, speed, and tone
• Provides an API for easy integration with other applications
• Pay-as-you-go pricing model allows for flexibility and cost control
• Pay-as-you-go pricing may be more expensive for high-volume usage compared to some subscription-based alternatives
• Some users may prefer a desktop application over a web-based platform

10. Speechelo

Speechelo is a user-friendly text-to-speech software that allows users to create professional-sounding voiceovers for their videos, presentations, and other content.

The TTS software offers a variety of human-like speech in multiple languages and accents, along with features like voice customization, breathing sounds, and pauses.

Speechelo's intuitive interface enables users to generate lifelike AI voices quickly and easily, without requiring any technical expertise.

Speechelo Pricing:

• Standard plan: $47 (one-time payment)
• Pro plan: $47 (one-time payment) + $37 per month

How to Use Speechelo:

• Click on the "Get Instant Access Now" button
• Fill out the required information and complete the payment process
• Download the software and follow the installation instructions
• User-friendly interface suitable for users with varying technical expertise
• Offers a wide range of lifelike speech in various languages and accents
• Provides voice customization options, including pitch, speed, and volume
• Includes features like breathing sounds and adding pauses
• One-time payment option is available for the Standard plan
• Pro plan requires a monthly subscription fee in addition to the one-time payment
• Some users may find the upsells and additional offers during the checkout process to be overwhelming

11. Zabaware

Zabaware is a comprehensive text to speech software that converts written text into speech. The text to speech tool supports multiple languages and offers customization options, including voice selection, reading speed, pitch, and volume.

Zabaware also allows users to easily navigate and control the text-to-speech functionality, making it suitable for users with varying technical expertise.

Zabaware Pricing:

• Personal edition: $29.95 (one-time payment)
• Professional edition: $59.95 (one-time payment)

How to Use Zabaware:

• Includes a built-in text editor for creating and editing documents
• One-time payment option available for both Personal and Professional editions
• Some users may find the interface outdated compared to more modern text-to-speech applications
• Lacks some advanced features, such as voice customization and audio editing tools, found in other text-to-speech software

12. Speech Central

Speech Central is a text-to-speech software that offers high-quality, custom AI voices for various applications, such as e-learning, podcasts, and audiobooks.

This text to speech tool allows users to easily input text, select their desired voice, and generate audio files. Speech Central supports multiple languages and offers a wide range of voice customization options. Users can adjust pitch, speed, and volume.

Speech Central Pricing:

• Basic plan: $9.99 per month
• Pro plan: $19.99 per month

How to Use Speech Central:

• Input your text directly into the platform or upload a document
• Generate the audio files and download them or use the provided embed code
• Supports various file formats, including TXT, DOC, and PDF
• Offers a free trial for users to test the platform before committing to a paid plan
• Provides an API for integration with other applications and platforms
• Some advanced features, such as batch processing and API access, may only be available in higher-tier plans
• Web-based platform requires an internet connection to access and use

13. Synthesys

Synthesys is an AI-powered text-to-speech software that enables users to create AI voice overs for various applications, such as videos, podcasts, and digital assistants.

The text to speech tool offers a wide range of realistic AI voices in multiple languages and accents, along with advanced features like voice customization, lip-syncing, and audio editing.

Synthesys' user-friendly interface and API make it easy for users to integrate high-quality text-to-speech functionality into their projects.

Synthesys Pricing:

• Basic plan: $29 per month
• Pro plan: $49 per month

How to Use Synthesys:

• Generate the audio file and download it or use the provided embed code
• Create AI voice content at scale
• Supports 60+ languages
• Choose from 70+ AI Avatars

14. FlexClip

FlexClip is an online video creation platform that offers a powerful text-to-speech tool as part of its suite of features in video editing . The text-to-speech software allows users to generate high-quality voiceovers for their videos directly within the FlexClip platform.

With a wide selection of AI voices in multiple languages and accents, FlexClip makes it easy for users to create videos with voiceovers.

FlexClip Pricing:

• Basic plan: $5.99 per month
• Plus plan: $9.99 per month
• Business plan: $19.99 per month

How to Use FlexClip:

• Create a new video project or open an existing one
• Navigate to the text-to-speech tool within the FlexClip platform
• Input your text, select your desired voice, language, and customization options
• Generate the voiceover and add it to your video timeline
• Export the final video with the generated voiceover
• Seamlessly integrates text-to-speech functionality with video creation tools
• Allows users to create engaging videos with professional-quality voiceovers
• Offers a free version with access to basic features
• Some advanced text-to-speech customization options may be limited compared to dedicated text-to-speech platforms
• Requires a subscription to access the full range of FlexClip's video creation tools and features

15. Deepbrain AI

Deepbrain AI is an innovative AI-powered platform that offers advanced text-to-speech capabilities alongside other AI solutions. The platform's text-to-speech feature utilizes deep learning algorithms to generate highly realistic and expressive AI voices in many languages and accents.

With Deepbrain AI, users can create natural-sounding voiceovers for various applications, such as virtual assistants , e-learning content, and audio advertisements.

Deepbrain AI Pricing:

• Pay-as-you-go pricing: Based on the number of characters processed, starting at $0.007 per character

How to Use Deepbrain AI:

• Integrate the Deepbrain AI text-to-speech API into your application or platform
• Generate the voiceover and retrieve the audio file through the API
• Utilizes advanced deep learning algorithms for generating highly realistic and expressive voices
• Offers a wide range of languages and accents for creating localized voiceovers
• Provides an API for seamless integration with various applications and platforms
• Offers a pay-as-you-go pricing model, allowing users to scale their usage based on their needs
• Part of a comprehensive AI platform that offers other AI solutions, such as chatbots and image recognition
• Requires technical expertise to integrate the API into applications and platforms
• Some users may prefer a standalone text-to-speech application over an API-based solution.

Can AI Text-To-Speech videos be monetized on YouTube?

• Yes, AI Text-To-Speech videos can be monetized on YouTube, but ensure you comply with YouTube’s terms of service .

Is there a free text-to-speech software?

• Yes, there are several free TTS software options that are widely available. While these free text-to-speech apps offer a great starting point, they may have limitations in terms of voice selection, customization options, or advanced features. For more comprehensive TTS capabilities, consider exploring paid or premium versions of these apps or other top-rated options like Listening.com, Murf, or Synthesys.

Is there a free website that will read text aloud?

Yes, there is a free website that will read text aloud: Listening.com . This powerful online platform offers a wide range of text-to-speech services, making it easy for users to convert academic text into high-quality speech.

Download the Best Text to Speech Tool Now

The best TTS apps in 2024 offer human like speech, customization options, and ease of use. From the realistic voices in Listening.com to the advanced features of Murf and Synthesys, there's a text-to-speech solution for every need.

When choosing a TTS app, consider factors like realistic speech patterns, multilingual support, and integration with popular platforms. Carefully evaluate these aspects to find the perfect app for creating engaging, high-quality content.

TTS apps cater to individuals, content creators, and businesses looking to enhance accessibility, videos, podcasts, or customer engagement. As technology evolves, text-to-speech will become an increasingly valuable tool for communication, learning, and creativity.

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Table of contents, naturalreader, capti voice, top free tts apps. a side-by-side comparison, is there a free app that will read text aloud, is there an app that reads books to you for free, what is the best free app for text-to-speech.

There are a host of text-to-speech apps. Searching google gives you more than you need. We've curated the Top 1% text-to-speech apps that you can try free!

If you are looking for a text-to-speech reader, there are plenty of options from which to choose. Free  text to speech (TTS) software has come a long way, with numerous apps able to handle multiple languages, including English, Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. They have high-quality, lifelike, natural-sounding speech, are great for e-learning, and have various subscriptions available. Many of them are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Microsoft,  iOS ,  Chrome , and  Android . With so many options, how can you find the best text-to-speech software to meet your needs? Take a look at the speech tool options below, and find the best  TTS reader  to meet your needs.

The best free text-to-speech apps

There are plenty of choices available if you are looking for a free text-to-speech app. Some of the top options and use cases from which to choose include:

NaturalReader  is a great option for personal use and learning. It is particularly helpful for those learning a foreign language or those with disabilities. It is completely free, comes with a built-in OCR, and gives you numerous interface options from which to choose. This online tool even comes with a built-in web browser. You can upload written text and listen to the natural-sounding voice read the information to you. There is a premium option available if you would like to upgrade, but it is not free and it can get expensive.

Capti Voice is another option that is great for personal use and can help you improve your productivity. It can help you listen to e-books, docs, and web pages. It is also ideal for those who suffer from vision impairment, dyslexia, and other disabilities. There is a tutorial that can be helpful, and there are YouTube videos to help you learn more. It gives you speech tracking word by word, will work offline, and has advanced text navigation options. The  voiceover  with the audio files is also very clear. These benefits have made this program one of the most popular options in the industry.

Read Aloud can help you convert websites into spoken text. It can handle more than 40 languages, gives you a custom voice experience, and has a streamlined user interface. It can handle PDF documents, Amazon Kindle books, and other epub formats. There are helpful shortcuts that make the app easier to use, and the speech synthesis is smooth. You can change the pitch, and reading speed, and even enable text highlighting to follow along while reading text to speech online with a voice generator. It is also an open-source project, so it is continuously being improved, leading to a better customer experience. But, because it is open-source, it also takes a decent understanding of software programs to get the app to run smoothly.

If you are looking for a mobile app for iOS users, Voicedream could be a solid option. It comes with OCR recognition, has 200 voices, and offers more than 30 languages. The speech recognition and speech services are solid, as it provides you with access to advanced features. Examples include full-screen reading mode, dictionary lookups, and text highlighting. There are also premium features available that allow you to customize the app to meet your needs. These are not necessarily available with the free version.

If you are looking for an API that gives you access to exceptional IVR and SSML, then Speechify is the best option. It is a versatile program that can do it all. It can read documents , books, and articles to you as you do work around the house. You get the ability to listen to articles, physical books, and other digital text in an audio format. It will sound just like a smooth podcast or MP3 file. There is even a free version available, giving you access to plenty of features that can dramatically improve your reading and listening experience! Speechify gives you access to human HD voices made using AI, which gives you a more enjoyable listening experience. You get access to more than 60 languages, and the best OCR technology in the industry gives you the most accurate text extraction. You even have control over the reading speed, allowing you to be even more productive. You can find the perfect voice and reading style to meet your needs. Built using an exceptional SDK, it is easy to see why Speechify is the best option available, particularly for those who are looking for a free option.

Some of the most common questions people ask about text-to-speech software programs include:

Yes! There are options available, but Speechify is the best one. This is an app that can handle articles, documents, and books as you do yard work, drive from place to place, or work in the kitchen. If you want to multitask, Speechify allows you to listen to physical books, PDFs, and articles as audio files, allowing you to be more productive than ever .

Yes! Speechify is an app that allows you to listen to books as they are read to you, free of charge. You are certainly welcome to read along with the book as the audio file plays, but you do not have to. Furthermore, Speechify can handle a wide variety of file types, including HTML, docx, doc, TXT, PDF, ePub, and numerous others.

There are plenty of apps from which to choose. Some of the examples include Natural Reader, Capti Voice, Read Aloud, and Voice Dream; however, the best option is Speechify. You get access to the best features in the industry, and there is a free version available, helping you save money. {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"FAQPage","mainEntity":[{"@type":"Question","name":"Is there a free app that will read text aloud?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes! There are options available, but Speechify is the best one. This is an app that can handle articles, documents, and books as you do yard work, drive from place to place, or work in the kitchen. If you want to multitask, Speechify allows you to listen to physical books, PDFs, and articles as audio files, allowing you to be more productive than ever.nn"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Is there an app that reads books to you for free?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes! Speechify is an app that allows you to listen to books as they are read to you, free of charge. You are certainly welcome to read along with the book as the audio file plays, but you do not have to. Furthermore, Speechify can handle a wide variety of file types, including HTML, docx, doc, TXT, PDF, ePub, and numerous others."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the best free app for text to speech?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"There are plenty of apps from which to choose. Some of the examples include Natural Reader, Capti Voice, Read Aloud, and Voice Dream; however, the best option is Speechify. You get access to the best features in the industry, and there is a free version available, helping you save money."}}]}

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Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.