Free Transcription Software: 6 Tools Tested & Reviewed

Do you find it challenging to capture every word during meetings or interviews? Transcription software has become essential for turning spoken words into written records quickly and accurately. But with so many options, how do you choose the best free transcription software for your needs?

In this article, we reviewed six free transcription tools, each tested for key features like usability, platform compatibility, and transcription accuracy.

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What to Look for in a Free Transcription Software

Finding the right transcription tool means balancing your unique needs with the software’s capabilities. Here’s what you should consider:

Accuracy

The best free transcription software should provide accurate transcription with minimal need for manual corrections. AI-powered tools often stand out for their ability to deliver highly accurate transcription results. For AI transcription tools, look for an accuracy rate of 85-90% under ideal conditions, such as clear audio and distinct speakers, to ensure reliable results with minimal editing required.

Ease of Use

Choose software that makes it easy to upload, manage, and transcribe audio and video files without a steep learning curve. A clean, intuitive user interface is equally important, so users can quickly navigate the tool and access essential features without frustration. Tools with drag-and-drop functionality or simple upload processes can significantly enhance the user experience, especially for beginners. Additionally, look for software with clear instructions or tutorials to help you get started smoothly.

Features

Advanced features like speaker identification, timestamping, or integration with transcription services can make a big difference depending on your workflow.

Platform Compatibility

Some users prefer downloadable transcription software instead of browser-based options. Downloadable tools often offer offline access and features like foot pedal support for manual transcription.

Supported File Types

Ensure the software supports your audio and video files. Commonly supported audio formats include MP3, WAV, M4A, and WMA, while video formats often include MP4, MOV, AVI, and MKV. If you work with less common formats, check whether the tool can accommodate files like FLAC, AAC, or OGG for audio and WMV or FLV for video. A wider range of compatibility ensures you can work seamlessly with various recording types.

Consider these factors to pick a tool that fits your workflow perfectly.

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6 Free Transcription Tools Worth Trying

Now that you know what to look for in transcription software, let’s explore six tools that stand out. Each one has been tested for its key features, platform compatibility, and ability to handle audio and video files effectively.

1. Express Scribe

Express Scribe is an automatic transcription software for streamlining manual transcription workflows. It offers features tailored to transcriptionists in fields like medical, legal, and academic work.

Key Features

• Foot Pedal Support: Hands-free control of playback, speeding up transcription tasks.
• Variable Speed Playback: Adjust playback speed without distorting audio quality.
• Wide Format Support: Compatible with common audio formats like MP3, WAV, and WMA.
• Hotkey Functionality: Customizable shortcuts for quicker navigation and playback control.
• Automatic File Management: Load files automatically from various sources, including emails and LAN.

Free Plan Inclusions

The free version supports common audio formats and includes essential playback features. However, advanced options like video playback and proprietary format support are limited to the paid version.

Platforms

Available for both Windows and macOS.

Best For

Perfect for professional transcriptionists or users who prefer downloadable software for offline use, especially those relying on tools like foot pedals for efficiency.

2. Descript

Descript is a transcription tool that doubles as an audio and video editing platform. Its text-based approach lets you edit recordings as if you’re editing a document.

Key Features

• Text-Based Editing: Edit audio and video files by modifying the transcript, simplifying the editing process.
• Screen Recording: Easily record your screen for tutorials, presentations, or team updates.
• Overdub: Generate text-to-speech audio using your own voice for quick fixes without re-recording.
• Filler Word Removal: Automatically remove filler words like “um” and “uh” for cleaner audio.
• Collaboration Tools: Share projects and work with team members in real time.

Free Plan Inclusions

• 1 hour of transcription per month.
• Access to screen recording and editing tools.
• Limited trial of AI features and text-to-speech capabilities.

Platforms

Descript is available for Windows and macOS.

Best For

Descript is perfect for podcasters, video producers, and content creators who need an integrated solution for transcription and media editing.

3. InqScribe

InqScribe is a transcription software that combines an integrated media player and text editor, allowing users to transcribe video and audio files within a single window.

Key Features

• Integrated Media Player and Text Editor: Transcribe directly in the app without switching between programs.
• Timecode Insertion: Add clickable timecodes to transcripts for quick navigation to specific points in the media.
• Custom Snippets: Assign keyboard shortcuts to frequently used text for faster transcription.
• Foot Pedal Support: Control playback hands-free using compatible USB foot pedals.
• Multi-Language Support: Unicode compliance enables transcription in multiple languages within the same document.

Free Plan Inclusions

• Timecode insertion and text editing capabilities.
• Drag-and-drop media import.
• Access to essential features for manual transcription.

Platforms

Available for Windows and macOS.

Best For

InqScribe is ideal for researchers, journalists, filmmakers, and professional transcriptionists looking for a reliable tool for manual transcription and subtitling.

4. Transcriber Pro

Transcriber Pro is a transcription tool that converts audio files into text. Its user-friendly interface and support for multiple audio formats make it a practical choice for those seeking a straightforward transcription experience.

Key Features

• User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive design ensures accessibility for users with all levels of technical expertise.
• Compatibility with Multiple Audio Formats: Supports various file formats (MP3, WAV, and AAC), allowing flexibility in handling different types of recordings.
• Efficient Transcription Tools: Provides tools to enhance productivity and simplify the transcription process.

Free Plan Inclusions

Details about a free plan or trial version are not readily available. Interested users should visit the official website or contact the provider for more information on trial options.

Platforms

Compatible with Windows operating systems.

Best For

Transcriber Pro is ideal for professionals such as journalists, researchers, legal transcriptionists, and medical transcriptionists, as well as individuals like students or content creators who need a reliable tool to transcribe audio files into text.

5. oTranscribe

oTranscribe is a free, open-source web application that simplifies manual transcription. By combining an audio player and text editor into a single interface, it eliminates the need to switch between programs.

Key Features

• Integrated Audio Player and Text Editor: Transcribe directly within the app for a smoother workflow.
• Keyboard Shortcuts: Customize shortcuts for playback controls like pause, rewind, and fast-forward, keeping your hands on the keyboard.
• Interactive Timestamps: Add clickable timestamps to navigate quickly to specific parts of the recording.
• Playback Speed Control: Adjust audio speed to match your typing pace for easier transcription.
• Automatic Saving: Transcripts are saved to your browser's local storage every second, minimizing the risk of data loss.

Free Plan Inclusions

oTranscribe is completely free to use, with no subscription fees or feature restrictions. All tools are accessible directly through your web browser.

Platforms

As a browser-based application, oTranscribe works on any desktop operating system, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It’s optimized for desktop use and may not function properly on mobile devices.

Best For

oTranscribe is perfect for journalists, researchers, students, and anyone looking for an intuitive and effective tool for manual transcription. However, as an open-source software, it may lack some advanced features or dedicated customer support found in paid tools, which could be a drawback for users needing more robust functionalities or assistance.

6. AmberScript

AmberScript is both a transcription software and service, offering automated AI-powered tools alongside professional human-made transcriptions. This combination allows users to choose between speed and accuracy, making it a versatile option for varying transcription needs.

Key Features

• Automated Transcription: Uses AI to quickly transcribe audio and video files, supporting over 20 file formats and more than 38 languages.
• Manual Transcription: Offers professional human-made transcriptions for complex or high-accuracy needs.
• Mobile App: Transcribe meetings, lectures, and voice notes directly from iOS and Android devices.
• Speech-to-Text API: Integrates transcription capabilities into other software, supporting over 80 languages.

Free Plan Inclusions

AmberScript provides a free trial with 10 minutes of transcription, allowing users to test its features before committing to a paid plan.

Platforms

Available on web browsers for Windows, macOS, and Linux, with additional mobile applications for iOS and Android.

Best For

AmberScript is ideal for professionals and organizations needing flexible transcription services, whether automated for speed or manual for higher accuracy. Manual transcription services can deliver up to 99% accuracy, making them a reliable choice for complex or high-stakes projects requiring precise transcription.

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Tactiq: Best Transcription Tool

After exploring several free transcription tools, it’s clear that each has its strengths, but if you’re looking for an AI-driven option that integrates directly with your favorite meeting platforms, Tactiq is a standout choice.

As a browser-based transcription solution, it works seamlessly with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet—no downloads required!

Key Features

• Real-Time Transcriptions: Capture live transcriptions during meetings without missing a word.
• AI-Driven Summaries: Generate concise summaries, action items, and insights with AI, saving you time on post-meeting documentation.
• Customizable Prompts: Use AI prompts to extract specific insights or translate meeting content into different formats, from emails to project updates.
• AI Workflows: Automate meeting follow-ups by updating CRMs, creating tickets, syncing with knowledge bases, and notifying teams. Use team-specific workflows for sales, marketing, or product management, and get started quickly with pre-built templates.

With Tactiq, you can focus on the conversation while the tool takes care of creating actionable transcripts and insights for you. Download the free Tactiq Chrome Extension today!

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FAQs

What is the best transcription software?

Descript stands out as one of the best transcription software options thanks to its text-based editing features, screen recording capabilities, and AI-powered tools that simplify audio and video editing.

How can I transcribe my audio for free?

You can transcribe audio for free by using browser-based tools like oTranscribe or free trials offered by transcription services. Simply upload your audio or video file, and the software will convert it into text.

Is there an AI tool that can transcribe for free?

Yes, Tactiq offers AI-driven transcription features with a free plan. It works in your browser and integrates with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, making it a convenient option for capturing and summarizing meetings.