Dictation software can be a great tool for creating documents quickly, but it’s important to find the right program for your needs. Look for features such as accuracy and ease of setup when choosing dictation software. If you want more proof that this type of software is useful, just think about how many times people have said “I wish there were an app for that!” Well, now there is!
In this guide, we review the aspects of Dictation Software For Pc, dictation software for word, best dictation app for android, What is the best way to dictate to your computer, and medical dictation software for pc.
Dictation Software For Pc
If you’re looking for a way to create documents, such as reports, newsletters and brochures, faster than typing on your keyboard, consider using dictation software. Dictation software can help you speak into a microphone on your computer and have the words appear on the screen almost instantly. If you want to use dictation software on your computer, consider these features.
Creating documents, such as reports, newsletters and brochures, can be a chore. In fact, sometimes the words simply don’t flow out of your fingertips when you’re staring at a blank page.
Creating documents, such as reports, newsletters and brochures, can be a chore. In fact, sometimes the words simply don’t flow out of your fingertips when you’re staring at a blank page.
Dictation software for PC is designed to make it easier for you to get the words out of your head and onto the screen by turning your speech into text on any PC with a microphone. The right software will also make it possible for non-experts to create professional quality documents quickly and easily. Many programs are available that offer features like phrase training; however not all are created equal! Here’s how I like to use dictation software:
Dictation software can help you create a document faster than typing on your keyboard.
When you use dictation software, you can create a document faster than typing on your keyboard or with a pen.
The reason for this is because it allows you to speak directly into your computer and have the words appear before you on the screen. This means that instead of having to type everything out manually, which can be time consuming and cumbersome, you can simply say what’s in your head without having to worry about spelling or punctuation mistakes (unless the mistake was made by the software).
If you want to use dictation software on your computer, consider these features.
If you’re looking for a dictation software solution, there are some features you should consider. If accuracy is your number one priority, look for a program that has been extensively tested and offers high accuracy. You’ll also want to make sure the software isn’t difficult to set up on your computer and that it’s compatible with other programs you use regularly so that you can integrate it into your workflow seamlessly. Finally, if contextual awareness is important to you (and why wouldn’t it be?), consider whether or not the program has voice commands built in that allow users to control certain aspects of their computers via voice command—for instance: “Open Word.”
Accuracy
Accuracy is the most important factor in dictation software. After all, if you don’t get your words right the first time around, what’s the point of even using it? The good news is that modern dictation software has gotten pretty good at helping you get your words right—and these are some of its best features:
> Dictionary lookup: Your computer’s built-in dictionary might not be able to keep up with every word you say, but having a way to look up words on an Internet-connected device is an essential part of effective dictation.
> Grammar checking: One of the main reasons people still type rather than speak into their computers (other than lack of familiarity) is that they’re afraid they’ll make mistakes that will be embarrassing or difficult to correct later on. But if grammar checking is available for your software, this fear can subside immensely because it allows users to see possible corrections before they finish speaking a sentence or paragraph.
> Pronunciation correction: The same goes for pronunciation correction; it lets users know when they’ve mispronounced something in real time, so there are no surprises later down the road when someone else reads over their finished product and makes fun of them behind their back because they said “fruit” instead of “flour.”
Ease of setup
Ease of setup
One of the first things that you will notice when you open this software is its simplicity. There are no complicated installation processes, files to download and configure or accounts to create. You simply open it up and start using it right away.
It’s also worth noting that there is no need to configure any settings within Windows either, which can make all the difference when you are in a hurry or just want something simple to use on the fly.
Compatible with other programs
A good dictation software program should be able to work with a wide variety of programs. If it’s compatible with other programs, then you’ll have the option to sync your computer’s audio files and transcripts. For example, if you’ve got an interview on one side and a list of notes on the other, then this can be easily synced together so that both sides are accessible from one place.
Many people use Google Docs for their word-processing needs, and even though it doesn’t have a built-in transcription feature like Word or Scrivener does, there are ways around that! You can simply link up your dictation software program with Google Docs in order to sync up transcripts immediately after they’re made—no need for any extra steps here!
Contextual awareness
Contextual awareness is what allows dictation software to understand how a word may be used in context. For example, if you were writing about the word “stomach,” and your software recognized that you were writing about a human’s stomach, it would know that you likely meant “abdomen” instead of another meaning of the word like “tummy.”
This contextual awareness is built into all of the leading dictation software programs for Windows computers and smartphones. The more accurate your speech recognition becomes, the better idea it has of what words are actually being said before they are written down on paper or typed onto a computer screen.
Voice commands
Voice commands are a great way to control and navigate around the program. Some programs have voice commands that allow you to dictate text, while others offer voice commands that allow you to control the program itself.
Voice commands can be used for everything from dictating what you want your computer to say, to navigating through menus, tabs and fields in the application. Voice command technology is often referred to as “voice recognition software” because it allows a person’s speech patterns (words and phrases) around which they have been trained by their own use of those words or phrases over time. In this way, voice recognition software works like any other type of personal knowledge base (such as when using Google Search).
The right dictation software will make it easier for you to get the words out of your head and onto the screen.
Dictation software for PC is the best way to create documents that are faster, more accurate and easier to read than typing them out yourself.
But which one should you choose? There are a lot of dictation programs on the market today, so let’s take a look at some of the top options available.
dictation software for word
Are you looking for the best dictation software to help your work go faster? Take a look at a few of the top choices below.
Dictation software is now easier to use than ever before. I remember that I used to type every word I published. It didn’t take long for me to realize that this was not the best way to do my work.
Within a few months, I felt shooting pains traveling down my right wrist. I knew this was carpal tunnel and I wanted to avoid surgery. Therefore, I decided to invest in software that could help me transcribe my work.
Speech to text software can help you save a lot of time as well. There are numerous options available, so you can tailor your choice to meet your specific needs. What is the best dictation software available? Let’s find out!
1. Dragon Professional Individual Speech-To-Text Software
If you are willing to make a hefty investment, this could be the right option for you.Pricing: $59 to $300
This is one of the best options available. Dragon products, including Dragon Naturally Speaking and Dragon Anywhere for mobile, have historically been intuitive, reliable, and accurate. I have used a wide variety of dragon products, and this one is exceptional. I have used it on both Apple and Microsoft Windows devices and the accuracy is unparalleled.
One of the major advantages of using Dragon software is that it will learn your voice over time. That means it will adjust the transcription and get more accurate as time goes on. It can filter out background noise, learn your accent, and even interpret your tone of voice.
It also comes with a wide variety of features that you can use to make your writing faster, including voice commands. Even though it did take me a while to learn how to take advantage of this functionality, it is one of the best dictation software programs available.
2. Google Docs Voice Typing Speech Recognition Software
If you are looking for a free program that doesn’t require a headset, consider Google Docs Voice Typing. Pricing: Free to $0.009 / 15 seconds
If you are looking for dictating software that is free to use, then you might want to check out Google Docs voice to text software. This is a free program that works well in Chrome. All you have to do is open up a Google, turn on the microphone, and begin speaking. It will work well with just about any operating system, including Mac, Android, and iOS devices, because you simply have to have the Chrome browser in order to use it.
You do not have to purchase any software, download anything, or create an account. Even though it does not come with as many advanced dictation features as some of the other programs, it does have a few voice commands and formatting options. You can use your voice to tell it to move down a line, add a period, or add a comma.
I have found that this program is great for beginners. It can handle more than 80 different languages (including Spanish) and a variety of English accents. You can talk quickly, dictate accurately, and improve your productivity. On the other hand, it is not the most accurate program in the world.
3. Apple Dictation
If you are looking to use dictation software for free, and you have an Apple product, this could be the best choice for you. Pricing: Free for Apple product users
All Apple devices, including the iPhone, come with dictation software. If you have ever spoken a text message using Siri, you have used Apple Dictation. You can access the software from just about anywhere via a keyboard shortcut from an iOS or macOS device. You do not need to install or set up anything. You simply need to activate the software and start speaking.
You can only dictate for a few seconds at a time. In addition, it is not the most accurate program; however, it is good for anyone looking for a free solution.
4. Otter.Ai
Accurate dictation software suitable for most usersPricing: $8.33 per month
If you are looking for a software program that will come close to what Dragon can provide, then you may want to take a closer look Otter.ai. Otter.ai is extremely easy to use. It also comes with a wide variety of advanced features that allow you to customize a program to meet your needs.
For example, this program has speaker identification. If there are multiple people talking at the same time, the software can identify the speaker change, signaling this as it transcribes your text.
It also allows you to import audio files and video files that are stored on your device. Then, you can have the software program transcribe these files for you. Otter even comes with a subscription that allows you to use a mobile version of the software for free.
Otter.ai is a good choice if you want to transcribe meeting notes and Zoom recordings. It’s also worthwhile using, if you work on a Mac, and are in need of a desktop dictation app.
It’s relatively accurate. However, after extensive testing, I noticed that some longer files, like podcast recordings and interviews, needed a cleanup, particularly if quoting people verbatim. After 600-minutes of free recordings, it costs $8.33 per month.
5. Microsoft Word Speech To Text Software
Cost-effective dictation software for Windows or Office 365 usersPricing: $69.99/year
Even though this is not a standalone dictation software platform, Microsoft Word includes dictation functionalities. It is built directly into the program itself. It is also included with all Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
It is powerful and accurate. It uses training data and artificial neural networks to transcribe voice to text. It can compete with a wide variety of stand-alone dictation software providers. For example, the program is easy to use, does not require any advanced setup, and does not require any advanced installation.
It is also accessible directly from the Microsoft Word application itself. With a single click, it will start recording the speaker, transcribing the text.
6. Speechnotes
Free web-based dictation softwarePricing: Free
Speechnotes is a free dictation or speech to text tool that works via your web browser. It’s powered by the same dictation engine that Google Docs uses, so you can expect similar accuracy.
It’s a good choice if you want to dictate via your web browser or don’t want to pay for a premium dictation service. Like with the dictation service in Google Docs, some of my transcripts required clean-up.
7. Dragon Anywhere
Industry-standard dictation software–recommendedPricing: $15 per month or $150 per year
Dragon Anywhere is my preferred dictation app thanks to its ease of use and accuracy. I’ve tested and used the Dragon Anywhere extensively via the mobile app for iPhone and my iPad.
It doesn’t take much time to figure out how to use it. If you speak clearly, deliberately, and avoid filler words you’ll get 95 to 99% accuracy. It supports exports via Evernote, Dropbox, and more.
best dictation app for android
1. Speechnotes
The best feature of Speechnotes is arguably its punctuation keyboard. Lots of people find it awkward to dictate punctuation marks (for example, you typically have to say “Hi Mum comma please pick up the kids”).
The punctuation keyboard adds on-screen buttons for the most commonly used marks, thus allowing you to dictate faster and more naturally. It also offers emojis and symbols.
Other useful features include Bluetooth support, a home screen widget for instant dictation, and offline note-taking. The app also offers continuous recording. Unlike lots of other dictation apps, that means you can take long pauses between sentences while you gather your thoughts and the app will keep listening.
Handily, SpeechNotes has also added support for automated Google Drive backups of your notes.
Download: Speechnotes (Free, in-app purchases available)
2. Voice Notes
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Speechnotes is geared towards lengthy dictations, such as lectures or essays. Voice Notes takes the opposite approach—it specializes in taking quick notes on-the-fly.
The app offers two main ways of recording your notes. You can either use the speech-to-text feature to see a transcribed version of your notes on the screen, or you can save the audio file and listen to it later.
Additionally, Voice Notes has a reminder feature. This lets you set a time for the nudge, along with the type of alert you want to receive. You can even create recurring reminders.
Finally, the app offers powerful organizational tools. They include customizable categories, colored tags, and the ability to import and export your notes.
Download: Voice Notes (Free, in-app purchases available)
3. SpeechTexter
SpeechTexter is a speech-to-text Android app that works both online and offline. The app uses Google’s database, so if you want to use the offline mode, you’ll need to download the necessary language packs.
You can do so by heading to Settings > System > Languages and input > Virtual keyboard. Once there, tap on Google voice typing and select Offline speech recognition. To choose the languages to download, tap the All tab and select the language you want.
In addition to basic dictation and speech-to-text, you can use SpeechTexter to create SMS messages, emails, and tweets. The app also boasts a custom dictionary; adding personal information such as phone numbers and addresses is easy.
4. Voice Notebook
Voice Notebook is a full-featured speech-to-text app for Android. Its key features include a customizable list of auto-replaced words and punctuation, a voice-activated undo command, and the ability to import text files from file managers and Google Drive. The app also offers on-screen word and character counters for all your voice notes and dictations.
In-app purchases will unlock access to a power-saving mode, an always-on non-stop dictation option, and Bluetooth support for transferring files.
Download: Voice Notebook (Free, in-app purchases available)
5. Google Assistant
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Google Assistant deserves a mention in this category. Similar to Voice Text, it’s not a pure productivity app like the first three on the list; it fulfills a different niche.
The virtual assistant has many features you’ll find useful, including location-based reminders, the ability to control your smart home devices, and a podcast player. We’re more interested in the talk-to-text feature.
You can use Google Assistant to make verbal reminders, create lists with your voice, and even manage your diary. The Assistant also lets you use speech-to-text to add events to your calendar.
To take the app’s voice-based capabilities to the next level, you should pair it IFTTT. There are lots of great IFTTT recipes for Google Assistant to get started with.
If you’re not a fan of Google Assistant, you could try Microsoft’s Cortana instead. The app, which has been available on Android since 2017, also lets you take verbal notes.
6. Speech to Text
The simply named Speech to Text app is lightweight and easy to use.
Because Speech to Text supports continuous speech recognition, it’s an ideal solution for long notes, essays, reports, and other lengthy documents. There is no limit on the size of file you can create.
The app offers custom keyboards, auto-spacing, auto-saving, and a way to edit the on-screen text while you are still dictating another part of the transcript.
7. OneNote
You might not immediately think of Microsoft’s note-taking app as a dictation tool, but it’s great for people who want to keep verbal notes and aren’t interested in the speech-to-text side.
OneNote even comes with a special microphone widget that you can add to your home screen. To use the dictation widget, long-press any empty space on your home screen and go to Widgets > OneNote > OneNote Audio Note.
Of course, Evernote offers similar functionality. However, since mid-2016, many of Evernote’s best features require a subscription. OneNote is free for all users.
Get Even More Productive With Android
If you’re not used to taking verbal notes, you might find the transition jarring for a few days. However, once you become accustomed to the new routine, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Apps that offer speech-to-text on Android give you a faster and easier way to stay on top of your life. For more, check out other ways to type on Android if you don’t like standard keyboards.
Dan joined MakeUseOf in 2014 and has been Partnerships Director since July 2020. Reach out to him for inquires about sponsored content, affiliate agreements, promotions, and any other forms of partnership. You can also find him roaming the show floor at CES in Las Vegas every year; say hi if you’re going. Prior to his writing career, he was a Financial Consultant.
What is the best way to dictate to your computer
With Dictation, you can dictate text anywhere you can type it. Turn it on in Keyboard settings—your dictated utterances are sent to Apple to process your requests. A feedback window gauges your speaking volume and provides basic dictation controls.
If you need to dictate text and control your Mac using your voice instead of a keyboard and trackpad, use Voice Control. See Control your Mac and apps using Voice Control. When Voice Control is on, you can’t use Dictation.
On a Mac with Apple silicon, dictation requests are processed on your device in many languages—no internet connection is required. When dictating in a search box, dictated text may be sent to the search provider in order to process the search. Additionally, you can dictate text of any length without a timeout. You can turn off Dictation manually, or it stops automatically when no speech is detected for 30 seconds.
Note: Dictation may not be available in all languages or in all countries or regions, and features may vary.
Turn on Dictation
On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Keyboard
Go to Dictation on the right, then turn it on. If a prompt appears, click Enable.
If you’re asked if you want to improve Siri and Dictation, do one of the following:
Share audio recordings: Click Share Audio Recordings to allow Apple to store audio of your Siri and Dictation interactions from your Mac. Apple may review a sample of stored audio.
Don’t share audio recordings: Click Not Now.
If you change your mind later and want to share or stop sharing audio recordings, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Privacy & Security
Note: You can delete the audio interactions (which are associated with a random identifier and less than six months old) whenever you like—see Delete Siri and Dictation history.
To dictate using another language, click the Language pop-up menu, then choose a language and dialect.
Add an unlisted language: Choose Customize or Add Language, then select or add the languages you want to use.
Remove a language: Click the Language pop-up menu, choose Customize, then deselect the language you don’t want to use.
To learn more about how Apple protects your information and lets you choose what you share, click About Dictation & Privacy at the bottom of the window. See the Apple Privacy website.
Dictate text
In an app on your Mac, place the insertion point where you want the dictated text to appear.
When the feedback window shows a microphone icon
To insert a punctuation mark or perform simple formatting tasks, do any of the following:
Say the name of the punctuation mark, such as “exclamation mark.”
Say “new line” (equivalent to pressing the Return key once) or “new paragraph” (equivalent to pressing the Return key twice). The new line or new paragraph appear when you’re done dictating.
For a list of the commands you can use while dictating, see Commands for dictating text.
Note: Dictation automatically inserts commas, periods, and question marks for you as you dictate. To turn if off, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Keyboard
If you set up Dictation for multiple languages and want to switch languages as you dictate, click the language in the feedback window, then choose the language you want to use.
For information about setting up Dictation for multiple languages, see Turn on Dictation.
When you’re done, press the dictation keyboard shortcut, the Return key, or click Done in the feedback window.
On a Mac with Apple silicon, you can insert emoji using your voice while dictating—for example, say “heart emoji” or “car emoji.”
Ambiguous text is underlined in blue. If the text is wrong, click it and select an alternative. You can also type or dictate the correct text.
Set the Dictation keyboard shortcut
On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Keyboard
Go to Dictation on the right, click the pop-up menu next to Shortcut, then choose a shortcut to start Dictation.
To create a shortcut that’s not in the list, choose Customize, then press the keys you want to use. For example, you could press Option-Z.
Note: When you choose a Dictation keyboard shortcut, depending on your Mac model, the “Press fn key to” or “Press
For more help with Keyboard options, click the Help button
Change the microphone used for Dictation
The Microphone source in Keyboard settings shows which device your Mac is currently using to listen for Dictation.
On your Mac, choose Apple menu > System Settings, then click Keyboard
Go to Dictation on the right, click the pop-up menu next to “Microphone source,” then choose the microphone you want to use for Dictation.
If you choose Automatic, your Mac listens to the device you’re most likely to use for Dictation.