Best Free Speech to Text Apps in 2025

Speech-to-text technology, also known as AI transcription tools, helps users convert spoken words into written text efficiently.

In 2025, these tools are essential for boosting productivity in note-taking, transcription, and accessibility.

This guide reviews the top free speech to text apps based on accuracy, usability, and features, tailored for students, professionals, and casual users seeking the best free speech-to-text apps in 2025.

How We Tested

To find the true standouts, we put over 20 popular speech-to-text apps to the test, focusing specifically on what they offer in their free plans. Each app was judged on:

Accuracy: How well it transcribed speech in both quiet and slightly noisy settings.
Ease of Use: How intuitive and user-friendly the experience felt.
Core Features: The availability of must-have tools like real-time transcription, easy exporting, and in-app editing.
Free Plan Generosity: How fair and clear the limitations were (e.g., time caps, feature restrictions).

After our review, six apps clearly rose to the top, offering the best combination of performance, features, and overall value for anyone looking for a free solution.

What is Speech-to-Text Technology?

Speech to text technology, or automatic speech recognition (ASR), uses algorithms and machine learning to transform spoken language into editable text.

It powers voice assistants like Siri, transcribes meetings, and supports accessibility for users with hearing or motor impairments.

For example, a student might dictate lecture notes, while a professional could transcribe interviews in real time, improving efficiency and inclusivity.

Top 6 Best Speech to Text Apps in 2025

While there are many options out there, these six free apps consistently deliver the best results and user experience.

Detailed App Comparison

This table gives you a clear, side-by-side look at the top contenders, focusing on what really matters for a free user.

App	Best For (Ideal User)	Key Free Features	Limitations (Free Tier)	Privacy & Security Highlights	Integrations
Voicetonotes.ai	Anyone needing fast, private, and unlimited transcription without commitment.	• Truly Unlimited Transcription	• Focused on real-time dictation (no file uploads)	• Best-in-Class Privacy: No data is stored; nothing is tied to your identity.	• No direct integrations. • Easily copy/paste text into any app.
Google Docs Voice Typing	Writers and students deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem.	• Unlimited transcription	• Chrome Browser Only • No audio file uploads • Tied to your Google account	• Data is handled by Google's main privacy policy, which may be used for ad personalization.	• Natively built into Google Docs and Google Workspace.
Apple Dictation	Apple users who want seamless dictation across their devices.	• Unlimited transcription • Works system-wide in any app • Strong on-device processing	• Apple Ecosystem ONLY • Long dictations may require internet • Limited editing commands	• Very strong privacy focus with on-device processing. Data is synced via your private iCloud.	• Fully integrated across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS.
Notta	Users who occasionally need to transcribe a short meeting or audio file.	• Transcribes live audio & imports files • Basic web meeting transcription	• Extremely Restrictive: 120 minutes/month cap with a 3-minute limit per recording.	• Good security standards (SOC 2, GDPR). • Your data is processed on their servers.	• Basic sync with Google Calendar and Outlook.
Otter.ai	Teams focused on transcribing English-language meetings.	• Real-time transcription • Basic speaker identification • Basic Zoom & Google Meet sync	• Strict Time Caps: 300 minutes/month with a 30-minute limit per conversation.	• Policy states data may be used to improve services. • Uses cookies and trackers.	• Integrates with Zoom, Google Meet, and Teams for live captions.
Speechnotes	Android users looking for a simple, no-frills dictation notepad.	• Unlimited transcription • Works offline • Voice commands for punctuation	• Android Only • Contains Ads • Very basic interface	• Notes are stored locally on your device, offering good privacy for the app itself.	• No direct integrations. • Share notes to any app on your phone.

Voicetonotes.ai

Voicetonotes.ai is a lightweight, browser-based speech-to-text tool designed for quick and accurate voice transcriptions.

Unlike complex transcription platforms, it focuses on simplicity and speed, allowing users to instantly convert spoken words into notes without creating an account or downloading software.

This makes it especially useful for students, professionals, and anyone who needs fast, on-the-go note-taking.

Key Points:

Free and Simple – No sign-up required; users can start transcribing immediately.
Browser-Based – Works directly in your web browser without additional installations.
Multi-Language Support – Recognizes and transcribes speech in several languages.
Quick Transcriptions – Converts speech to text in real time.
Accessibility – Useful for people with hearing or speech challenges who rely on transcriptions.
Editing – Multiple editing tools are available in the app.
Cross-Platform Access – Works on web, iOS, and Android.

Limitations:

Internet Dependent – Requires a stable connection, as it doesn’t support offline use.
Integration – No options for integrating with other productivity apps.

Apple Dictation

Apple Dictation is a built-in speech-to-text tool available across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices. Designed for seamless integration, it allows users to convert spoken words into text in real time, whether composing emails, taking notes, or sending messages.

Since it’s part of the Apple ecosystem, it works smoothly across devices and supports multiple languages, making it a convenient option for everyday users.

Key Points:

Built-In & Free – No need to download extra apps.
Real-Time Transcription – Converts speech into text instantly for quick note-taking.
Cross-Device Integration – Works across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, syncing through iCloud.
Multi-Language Support – Offers dictation in dozens of languages and dialects.

Limitations:

Apple-Only – Restricted to the Apple ecosystem; not available on Android or Windows.
Internet Requirement for Long Dictations – Extended dictations are processed in the cloud, requiring an internet connection.
Accuracy Variations – Works best in quiet environments; background noise may affect results.
Limited Editing Tools – Basic functionality compared to specialized transcription apps.

Google Docs Voice Typing

Google Docs Voice Typing is a free built-in feature within Google Docs that allows users to dictate text directly into documents.

It’s widely used for its accuracy, integration with Google Workspace, and ease of use, making it a favorite among students, professionals, and writers.

Key Points:

Completely Free – Available to all Google account holders.
Real-Time Transcription – Converts speech into text instantly.
Multi-Language Support – Offers dozens of languages.

Limitations:

Browser Restriction – Only works in Google Docs on Chrome.
Internet Dependent – Requires an online connection.
Basic Editing Commands – Voice commands exist but are limited compared to paid tools.
Not Suitable for Long Recordings – Designed for dictation, not uploading audio files.

Notta

Notta is a versatile speech-to-text app that supports live transcription, audio/video imports, and team collaboration.

It’s designed for professionals who need more than just basic dictation, offering features like searchable transcripts and cloud storage.

Key Points:

Cross-Platform Access – Works on web, iOS, and Android.
Live Transcription – Converts speech into text in real time.
Audio Import (Limited) – Allows a few file uploads for transcription.
Multi-Language Support – Can handle several languages in the free plan.

Limitations:

Monthly Cap – Free plan offers only 120 minutes of transcription per month.
Feature Restrictions – AI summaries, advanced collaboration, and bulk exports are locked behind premium.
Internet Required – No offline transcription on the free tier.

Limited Audio/Video Import – Uploads are restricted compared to paid versions.

Otter.ai is one of the most well-known transcription apps, popular for its accuracy and collaboration features. It’s widely used for meetings, lectures, and professional settings, offering real-time transcription and searchable notes.

Key Points:

Real-Time Transcription – Captures speech instantly during live meetings or lectures.
Collaboration Basics – Can share and view transcripts with others.
Zoom Integration (Basic) – Limited live transcription features for free.

Limitations:

Monthly Minutes Cap – Only 300 transcription minutes per month.
Import Restrictions – Limited or no access to audio/video file uploads in the free plan.
Limited Playback/Export – Export features are restricted.

English-Centric – Free plan accuracy is best in English; fewer language options than premium.

Speechnotes

Speechnotes is a simple yet effective Android app designed for quick dictation and note-taking.

It focuses on delivering fast, accurate transcription with a minimalistic interface, making it a go-to choice for users who want a lightweight solution.

Key Points:

Completely Free on Android – Core dictation features available without cost.
Offline Functionality – Can work without the internet (via Android’s speech recognition).
Voice Commands for Punctuation – Insert punctuation marks by speaking commands.
Export Options – Notes can be copied, shared, or exported.

Limitations:

Android-Only – No native iOS or web version.
Basic Features – Limited compared to more advanced apps.
Ads in Free Version – Premium upgrade removes ads.

Not Ideal for Long Sessions – Designed for short dictations rather than full transcripts.

Key Features to Look For

When you're choosing a free app, these are the features that make a real difference:

Accuracy: How often is the transcription perfect? The less you have to edit, the better.
Real-Time Transcription: Can the app keep up with you as you speak? This is essential for live notes.
Language Support: Does it understand the languages and dialects you speak?
Export Options: How easy is it to get your text out of the app and into a document or email?
Editing Tools: Can you quickly and easily fix any mistakes the app makes?

The Reality of Free Tools

Free speech-to-text apps are fantastic, but they usually have some trade-offs to encourage you to upgrade. Be aware of:

Time Limits: Most apps that transcribe files (like Otter and Notta) impose strict monthly minute caps.
Feature Restrictions: Advanced tools like AI summaries, speaker identification, or special export formats are often behind a paywall.
Advertisements: Some apps use ads to support their free version.

Common Use Cases

Here’s how different people can benefit from these tools:

For Students: Effortlessly transcribe lectures, dictate essays, and capture research ideas.
For Professionals: Create meeting minutes on the fly, dictate emails and reports, and ensure no action item is forgotten.
For Content Creators: Draft blog posts or video scripts, transcribe interviews, and generate captions for your content.
For Accessibility: An essential tool for individuals with physical or hearing impairments, enabling easier communication.

A Quick Word on Security & Privacy

Your voice and your words are personal data. Think about this when choosing an app:

On-Device vs. Cloud: On-device processing (like Apple Dictation) is the most private. Cloud-based services can be more powerful but involve sending your data to a server.
Read the Policy: Look at how a company uses your data. Are they using it to train their AI? Are they selling it?
Anonymity is Key: Tools like Voicetonotes.ai that don't require an account offer the highest level of privacy because your transcriptions aren't linked to you.

Pro Tips for Better Accuracy

No matter which app you choose, follow these tips to get the best results:

Use a Decent Mic: Your phone's headset or an external microphone will always work better than your computer's built-in mic.
Find a Quiet Spot: Background noise is the biggest enemy of accurate transcription.
Speak Clearly: Talk at a natural, steady pace. Don't rush or mumble.
Use Voice Commands: Learn to say "period," "comma," and "new paragraph." It’s a huge time-saver!
Always Proofread: AI is smart, but it's not perfect. A quick scan to catch errors is always a good idea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which free app is best for transcribing meetings?

Otter.ai is a popular choice for its speaker identification, but the 30-minute limit is a major drawback. For quick, unlimited notes during a meeting, Voicetonotes.ai is a more reliable option.

2. What's the difference between dictation and transcription?

Dictation is converting your speech to text live as you speak. Transcription usually refers to uploading a pre-recorded audio or video file to be converted into text. Most free tools are better at dictation.

3. Are there any truly unlimited and free speech-to-text apps?

Yes. Voicetonotes.ai, Google Docs Voice Typing, and Apple Dictation all offer unlimited real-time dictation without any time caps.

4. How can I transcribe a confidential conversation safely?

For maximum security, use a tool that doesn't require an account or store your data, making Voice to Notes Ai the top choice. Alternatively, an app with on-device processing like Apple Dictation is also a very safe bet. Always be cautious with apps that process sensitive data on the cloud.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the "best" free speech-to-text app is the one that fits your needs. If you want something that's truly unlimited, private, and incredibly easy to use, Voicetonotes.ai is an outstanding choice.

If you're locked into the Apple or Google ecosystems, their built-in tools are incredibly convenient. For short meeting transcriptions, Otter.ai and Notta get the job done, but be mindful of their strict limits.

Our advice? Try two or three from this list and see which one feels right for you.