TranscribeFlow vs MacWhisper
File transcription vs. real-time dictation — two different tools for different needs, both with one-time pricing.
Pay Once, Own Forever
No monthly subscriptions
Bring Your Own API Keys
Use generous free tiers
Unlimited Usage
Most users never pay for APIs
TranscribeFlow
Our PickNative macOS dictation with AI-powered polish. Real-time transcription via Deepgram, intelligent post-processing via Gemini.
$49 $29 one-time
+ free API keys • 40% OFF
MacWhisper
AlternativeMacWhisper is a macOS app for transcribing audio files using OpenAI's Whisper model. It's designed for batch transcription of recordings rather than real-time dictation.
STRENGTHS
LIMITATIONS
Freemium + Pro one-time
Recurring fees
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
A detailed look at how TranscribeFlow stacks up against MacWhisper across key features.
| Feature | TranscribeFlow | MacWhisper |
|---|---|---|
Primary Use Case Different tools for different needs | Real-time dictation | File transcription |
Pricing Model | One-time $29 + free APIs | Freemium + Pro |
Real-time Dictation Speak and see text appear instantly | ||
Audio File Transcription Transcribe pre-recorded audio | ||
AI Grammar Correction | ||
Filler Word Removal | ||
Custom Presets | ||
Universal App Integration Type directly into any app | ||
Global Hotkeys | ||
Speaker Detection | ||
Batch Processing | ||
Local Processing Whisper runs locally | ||
AI Rewriting | ||
Multiple Languages | 30+ | 99+ |
The BYOK Advantage
Why TranscribeFlow's "Bring Your Own Key" model saves you money and gives you more freedom.
Typical Subscription Apps
- $10-30/month recurring forever
- Lose access when you stop paying
- Hidden usage limits and throttling
- Vendor lock-in — can't switch easily
After 2 years: $240-720 spent
TranscribeFlow BYOK
- $49 $29 one-time — own it forever
- Lifetime access with free updates
- Deepgram: $200 free credit per account
- Gemini: Generous free tier daily
After 2 years: $29 total (most users)
Why Choose TranscribeFlow?
Key advantages that make TranscribeFlow the superior choice for AI-powered dictation.
One-Time Purchase
Pay $49 $29 once, own TranscribeFlow forever. No subscriptions, no recurring fees, no surprise charges.
AI-Powered Polish
Google Gemini intelligently fixes grammar, removes filler words, and formats your text perfectly.
Custom Presets
Create unlimited custom presets — professional emails, casual messages, meeting notes, and more.
Universal Compatibility
Works in any app where you can type — email, messages, notes, browsers, and more.
Privacy First
Your API keys stored in macOS Keychain. No accounts, no data collection, no tracking.
Native macOS Experience
Built with Swift for a truly native experience. Beautiful UI, dark mode, seamless integration.
Our Verdict
MacWhisper and TranscribeFlow solve different problems. MacWhisper is excellent for transcribing audio files and recordings after the fact. TranscribeFlow is designed for real-time dictation — speaking directly into any app with AI-powered polish. They're complementary tools rather than direct competitors. Both offer sensible one-time pricing.
Choose TranscribeFlow if you want real-time dictation with AI polish that types directly into your apps. Choose MacWhisper if you need to transcribe pre-recorded audio files with speaker detection. Many users benefit from having both!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really not have to pay for API usage?
For most users, yes! Deepgram gives every new account $200 in free credits (no card required), which covers hundreds of hours of transcription. Google Gemini has a generous free tier that resets daily. Most personal users never exceed these limits.
Can I switch from MacWhisper to TranscribeFlow?
Absolutely! TranscribeFlow is designed to be easy to set up and start using immediately. Just download, add your API keys, and start dictating. Most users are up and running in under 5 minutes.
What happens if I do exceed the free API limits?
If you're a heavy user and exceed the free tiers, both Deepgram and Gemini offer very affordable pay-as-you-go pricing. You only pay for what you use, and it's still typically cheaper than subscription-based alternatives.
Is my data secure with TranscribeFlow?
Yes! Your API keys are stored securely in macOS Keychain, and audio is processed through Deepgram and Gemini's secure APIs. TranscribeFlow doesn't collect, store, or share any of your data. You have complete control.