Power users who want offline options, custom AI modes, or their own API keys.
The strongest shortlist for users who want control over models and prompts, especially on Apple Silicon. It is more configurable than a simple install-and-forget dictation tool.
Check Superwhisper termsPrivacy-first Apple users who want offline/local dictation and no recurring subscription.
The cleanest shortlist for privacy-focused Apple Silicon Mac users who prefer local transcription and a one-time purchase. It is not a Windows or Android option.
Check VoiceInk terms| Decision | Superwhisper | VoiceInk |
|---|---|---|
| Public price | Free; Pro shown at $8.49/month or $84.99/year | $25 one Mac; $39 two Macs; $49 multi-device, one time |
| Platforms | macOS, Windows, iOS | Apple Silicon Mac with macOS 14.4+; iOS is also available |
| Processing | Supports both local/offline and cloud models. Official guidance says offline models perform best on Apple Silicon; Intel Macs work best with cloud models. | Local transcription is the default and can run offline. Optional cloud transcription or AI enhancement is opt-in and uses user-selected providers/API keys. |
| Works where | Superwhisper says voice-to-text works in any app, including sites such as Gmail and Slack. | VoiceInk says it can write in any application on Mac. |
| Vocabulary | Custom context and prompt controls; exact dictionary behavior depends on the selected mode/model. | Custom words, phrases, replacements, and custom modes. |
| AI formatting | Custom AI modes, prompts, translation to English, and optional user-supplied AI API keys on Pro. | Local modes plus optional cloud AI enhancement and OpenAI-compatible endpoints. |
| Teams | Enterprise adds centralized billing/authentication, model controls, hosted models, and volume pricing. | Licensed by number of Macs; no centralized business-admin tier was shown on the public pricing page. |
| Privacy path | Superwhisper markets local processing, no training on user data, and no server retention. Cloud model use changes which processor handles the content, so confirm the selected mode and provider. | VoiceInk says local transcription stays on device and it does not operate servers that store user dictation. Local history remains until deleted or an auto-delete interval is configured; optional cloud services follow the chosen provider’s policy. |
| Main watch-out | Offline performance is best on Apple Silicon. | Mac app requires Apple Silicon and macOS 14.4 or newer. |
Trial rule
Use the same microphone, apps, prompts, and correction count.
Vendor feature pages cannot establish which app will produce more usable text in your environment. Run the browser-local benchmark with both trials before paying.
Run the dictation benchmark →