Ever wondered how top CEOs and executives pump out 100+ emails a day without burning out?
I’ll tell you their secret: They don’t type. They talk.
Hi, I’m Marvin, and after testing 13 speech-to-text apps over 6 months, I’ve discovered something shocking:
Most speech-to-text apps are complete garbage.
There are only a few dictation apps that can actually make your life easier. While speech-to-text technology is still evolving, today’s top solutions offer:
- Reliable voice recognition
- Support for multiple accents
- Basic punctuation
- Faster output than typing
Today, I’ll show you the best options currently available.
6 Best Speech-to-Text Apps in 2025
Windows Speech Recognition
Hidden in plain sight on your Windows PC is a surprisingly capable speech-to-text tool that most people don’t even know exists. I discovered Windows Speech Recognition during a desperate moment when my wrist was acting up from too much typing.
While it’s not the most advanced option out there, it handles basic dictation tasks remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from drafting quick emails to writing simple documents. The tool really shines when you’re multitasking — imagine sorting through physical paperwork while dictating notes into your computer.
What I particularly appreciate is that it works offline and integrates seamlessly with most Windows applications.
During my testing, I found it especially useful during informal team meetings where I could maintain eye contact while taking notes. The voice commands for navigation (“click that,” “scroll down”) are particularly handy when you’re standing away from your desk, perhaps reviewing a presentation.
However, I should mention that you’ll need to invest some time in the initial voice training process. Think of it like teaching a new assistant your speaking style — the more you use it, the better it understands you. For basic business correspondence and note-taking, it’s more than adequate, though you might want something more robust for intensive professional use.
The best part? It’s completely free and already installed on your Windows PC. To get started, just type “Windows Speech Recognition” in your start menu, and you’ll be dictating within minutes.
Microsoft Office Dictation
If you’re already living in the Microsoft Office ecosystem, you’ve got a powerful speech-to-text tool right at your fingertips. I stumbled upon Office Dictation during a particularly hectic week of report writing, and it’s become my go-to tool for drafting documents in Word, crafting PowerPoint presentations, and even responding to emails in Outlook.
What makes Office Dictation stand out is its seamless integration with the Office suite. You’ll find it tucked away in the ‘Home’ tab — just look for the microphone icon. I’ve found myself using it most often in Word, where it really shines. During my workday, I’ll often dictate first drafts of reports while pacing around my office (somehow, the ideas just flow better when I’m moving).
The tool has become surprisingly helpful during remote meetings too. When I’m sharing my screen to present a document, I can make real-time edits using voice commands without awkwardly fumbling with my keyboard. It’s also been a lifesaver for those times when inspiration strikes during my lunch break — I can dictate notes while finishing my sandwich without getting crumbs on my keyboard.
One thing I particularly appreciate is how it handles basic punctuation commands naturally. Just say “period,” “comma,” or “new paragraph,” and it formats accordingly. While it might take a few minutes to get used to speaking your punctuation, it quickly becomes second nature.
The best part? If you already have a Microsoft 365 subscription, this feature is included at no extra cost. It works in over 50 languages, though I’ve only tested it extensively in English. While it requires an internet connection to function, the accuracy is notably better than Windows Speech Recognition, especially for business terminology.
Dictation (MacOS)
As a Mac user, I’ve always appreciated how the company seamlessly integrates features into their ecosystem, and their built-in Dictation tool is no exception. Whether you’re working on your MacBook in a coffee shop or crafting documents on your iMac at home, this native feature turns your voice into text across virtually any text field on your Mac.
The tool offers two modes: basic dictation (which requires internet) and Enhanced Dictation (which works offline). I primarily use Enhanced Dictation because it allows for continuous dictation without time limits — perfect for those moments when you’re in the flow of writing.
What I love most is how it works system-wide. I use it everywhere — from composing emails in Mail to writing articles in Pages, and even filling out forms on websites. During my workday, I often switch between typing and dictating, especially when I’m brainstorming ideas or drafting initial concepts. There’s something liberating about speaking your thoughts rather than typing them.
The keyboard shortcut (double-tap the Function key) has become second nature to me now. I’ll often use it during research sessions, dictating notes while reading articles or watching videos. The accuracy is quite impressive, especially with Enhanced Dictation, though it does take some time to get used to speaking punctuation commands clearly (“comma,” “period,” “new line”).
Setting it up is straightforward – just head to System Preferences > Keyboard > Dictation. If you’re using a newer Mac with Apple Silicon, you’ll find the performance particularly snappy. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of premium speech-to-text solutions, it’s a robust tool that’s already built into your Mac, ready to help you work more efficiently.
Dictation (iOS)
While I’m an Android user myself, my team members who use iPhones daily have opened my eyes to the incredible convenience of that little microphone icon on the iPhone’s keyboard. They tell me it’s become their secret weapon for staying productive while walking, driving (hands-free, of course), or simply when their thumbs need a break from typing.
They’ve shared countless stories of using this feature to quickly respond to urgent messages while walking between meetings. The process couldn’t be simpler — tap the microphone icon on the keyboard, speak your message, and watch as words appear on screen. What particularly impresses them is how seamlessly it works across all their favorite apps — from Messages and Notes to third-party apps like WhatsApp and Gmail.
My team reports that accuracy has improved dramatically over recent iOS updates. What once struggled with morning coffee-voice now handles natural speech remarkably well. During their commutes, they often capture ideas or draft emails (with proper review before sending, naturally). The tool understands contextual commands like “new paragraph” or “exclamation mark,” effectively serving as a personal transcriber in their pockets.
One of their favorite use cases is with the Notes app. When inspiration strikes during a morning jog, they can quickly dictate ideas without breaking stride. The integration with other iOS features means their dictated text syncs across all Apple devices through iCloud — particularly valuable when expanding on mobile notes later at their desks.
What makes iOS Dictation particularly special, according to my team, is its offline capabilities on newer devices. This means they can dictate text even without an internet connection, perfect for areas with spotty service or when trying to avoid using mobile data. While I can’t personally test this feature, their consistent positive feedback makes it clear why iPhone users consider this built-in tool indispensable for daily communication.
Gboard (Android)
As Google’s official keyboard for Android, Gboard has completely transformed how I interact with my Android phone. Its voice typing feature is so intuitive that I often find myself using it more than traditional typing, especially during those hectic days when I’m juggling multiple tasks.
I remember being skeptical about keyboard voice typing until a colleague showed me how she uses Gboard to respond to work messages while cooking dinner. Now, I’m hooked. Whether I’m crafting lengthy emails, sending quick WhatsApp responses, or jotting down notes during a walk, Gboard’s voice typing handles it all with impressive accuracy.
What sets Gboard apart is its ability to understand context and natural speech patterns. Unlike older voice typing systems, you don’t need to speak like a robot. I’ve used it to dictate everything from casual messages (“Hey, running 5 mins late!”) to more complex work emails, and it rarely misses a beat. The punctuation recognition is particularly clever — it often automatically adds periods and commas based on your speech patterns.
One feature I absolutely love is its multilingual support.
The offline capabilities on newer Android devices are a game-changer. I frequently use it during my subway commute where internet connection is spotty at best.
Plus, the integration with Google’s AI means it’s constantly improving its accuracy and learning from your speech patterns. Just tap the microphone icon, speak your piece, and watch as your words appear almost instantly on screen.
Google Docs Voice Typing
As someone who spends countless hours in Google Docs, discovering its voice typing feature was like finding a hidden treasure. I remember the day I had to write a 12,461-word report with a terrible wrist strain — Google Docs Voice Typing came to my rescue, and I’ve never looked back.
(I wrote this article draft using it)
The best part? It’s completely free and incredibly powerful.
Just open Google Docs in Chrome (yes, it only works in Chrome), click Tools > Voice Typing, or press Ctrl+Shift+S, and you’ll see a microphone icon appear.
I love how it feels like having a personal assistant who types everything you say, without the monthly subscription fees that come with premium dictation software.
What really sets this tool apart is its command functionality. Beyond basic dictation, you can format your document entirely with your voice.
Need to bold a heading? Just say “bold” before speaking the text. Want to start a new paragraph?
Say “new line.” I particularly enjoy using commands like “create a bulleted list” when brainstorming ideas — it feels almost magical!
Here’s what makes it my go-to choice for long-form content:
- Exceptional accuracy for technical terms and industry jargon
- Support for over 60 languages (great for multilingual documents)
- Voice commands for formatting, editing, and navigation
- Real-time transcription with minimal lag
- Seamless integration with other Google Workspace features
Pro tip: I’ve found that speaking in complete thoughts rather than word-by-word produces more natural-sounding text. When I’m drafting blog posts, I often pace around my home office, speaking as if I’m having a conversation with my readers – the results are surprisingly engaging and conversational.
One quirky feature I love is how it handles punctuation. Say “period” at the end of your sentences, and it adds a full stop. It might feel awkward at first (my family still gives me strange looks when they hear me dictating), but it becomes second nature after a few sessions.
