Voice to Text Alternatives Compared

Not every voice-to-text tool fits every workflow. Dragon has 25 years of history. Otter specializes in meeting transcription. Talon offers hands-free computer control. We've compared 26 tools honestly — including where Blurt isn't the right choice. Find the right fit below.

26 detailed comparisons Honest about limitations Updated January 2025

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Traditional Desktop Software

Established dictation software with deep feature sets. Higher learning curve, often higher cost.

macOS Native Options

Tools built specifically for Mac users. Native integration, familiar experience.

Apple Dictation Siri Dictation MacWhisper SuperWhisper

Modern AI Voice Tools

New generation of AI-powered voice apps. Fast, accurate, designed for modern workflows.

Wispr Flow Aqua Voice Monologue VoiceInk Granola

Meeting & Transcription Services

Specialized for recording and transcribing meetings, interviews, and conversations.

Otter.ai Rev Fireflies.ai Notta Descript

Mobile & Cross-Platform

Voice typing on mobile devices and across multiple platforms.

Dragon Anywhere Gboard Voice Typing Voice Typing Keyboard Just Press Record

Web-Based Tools

Browser-based voice typing. No installation required.

Google Voice Typing Google Docs Voice Typing Speechnotes

Accessibility & Hands-Free

Designed for complete hands-free computer control. Beyond just voice typing.

Talon Voice

Frequently Asked Questions

Why would I pay for Blurt when Apple Dictation is free?

Apple Dictation is unreliable — it frequently fails silently, has 2-3 second delays, and requires saying 'period' and 'comma' manually. Blurt works instantly (under 500ms), handles punctuation automatically, and works consistently. For people who dictate regularly, the difference in reliability is worth $10/month.

Is Dragon NaturallySpeaking better than Blurt?

Dragon has more features: voice commands, custom vocabularies, deep application integration. But it costs $500+, requires training, and only works on Windows. Blurt does one thing — fast, accurate dictation — and does it simply. For straightforward voice-to-text on Mac, Blurt is easier and more affordable.

Should I use Otter.ai or Blurt?

Different tools for different purposes. Otter.ai transcribes meetings and creates searchable archives. Blurt types text wherever your cursor is. If you need meeting transcription, use Otter. If you need to dictate emails, messages, and documents, use Blurt. Many people use both.

What about privacy compared to other tools?

Blurt processes your audio to generate text, then discards the audio immediately. No recordings are stored. Some alternatives like MacWhisper process everything locally. Others like Otter store recordings in the cloud. Check each tool's privacy policy based on your requirements.

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