Free AI Tools to Convert Speech to Text (2026 Edition)

Sometimes you need to convert audio into written text — whether for reviewing meeting notes, transcribing interviews, or archiving lecture recordings. In the past, this required manual work or expensive services. Today, however, AI-powered transcription tools make it easier, faster, and more accessible than ever before.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best free AI tools for speech-to-text conversion in 2025, complete with features, limitations, and pricing.

Otter.ai

Otter.ai is one of the most popular AI-powered transcription services, especially for professionals who regularly attend online meetings or conferences. It’s designed to handle real-time transcription during video calls, interviews, and lectures.

🔍 Features:

• Automatic transcription of speech in real-time
• Full integration with platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams
• Generates summary keywords, speaker detection, and time-stamped notes
• Mobile and desktop support for flexible usage

🆓 Free Plan (2025):

• 300 transcription minutes per month
• Max 30-minute limit per recording
• Limited export and editing capabilities

Otter is ideal for students, educators, remote workers, and content creators who want to focus on the conversation rather than taking notes.

Website: https://otter.ai

Google Docs – Voice Typing

Google Docs Voice Typing is a completely free and browser-based tool that lets users dictate text directly into a document using just their voice.

🔍 Features:

• Available via Chrome and other Chromium-based browsers
• No cost, no signup, and unlimited usage
• Recognizes voice commands for punctuation, formatting, and editing
• Best for live speech, not pre-recorded audio

This tool is perfect for those who want to quickly take notes, write blog posts, or create documents hands-free.

📌 Important Note: It only works with live audio, so you cannot upload a voice file.

Website: https://docs.google.com

Descript

Descript is more than just a transcription tool — it’s a complete audio and video editing suite powered by artificial intelligence. It allows users to edit media by editing the text version of the transcript, making it a favorite among podcasters and video editors.

🔍 Features:

• AI transcription in 23 languages
• Automatic subtitle generation, filler word removal, and silence detection
• Edit audio/video by editing the transcript — like a Word document
• Includes tools for screen recording, multitrack editing, and collaboration

🆓 Free Plan (2025):

• 60 minutes of transcription per month
• Export options with watermark
• Premium editing features restricted to paid plans

Descript is ideal for those producing content professionally and looking for a highly visual and collaborative platform.

Website: https://www.descript.com

Riverside.fm

Riverside.fm is a web-based platform built for high-quality audio and video recording, primarily used for podcasts and remote interviews. Its built-in AI transcription engine sets it apart with exceptional accuracy.

🔍 Features:

• Offers instant transcription without login
• Supports formats: MP3, WAV, MP4, MOV
• Can transcribe in over 100 languages
• Claims up to 99% accuracy under good audio conditions

🆓 Free Plan (2025):

• Free transcription available with limited tools
• Paid plans add higher-quality recording and editing features

This tool is great for podcasters, YouTubers, and journalists looking to save time in post-production.

Website: https://riverside.fm

Aiko

Aiko is a free iOS app designed to convert both real-time speech and audio files into text using advanced on-device AI. It’s perfect for students, journalists, and anyone using an iPhone for note-taking.

🔍 Features:

• Integrates with Apple’s Live Captions
• Supports live and saved audio transcription
• Can generate captions for videos or summarize voice memos
• Works offline for many use cases

Aiko is especially useful for recording lectures, interviews, or spontaneous thoughts, and its simple design makes it great for daily use.

Availability: iOS (App Store)
Price: Completely free

TurboScribe.ai

TurboScribe.ai is an AI transcription tool that runs entirely in your browser, known for its accuracy in noisy environments. It is a solid alternative to more complex apps for users seeking simplicity.

🔍 Features:

• Exceptional performance in the presence of background noise
• Works directly from your browser, no software required
• Ideal for low-volume speech, whispers, or imperfect audio
• Fast turnaround times for transcriptions

🆓 Free Plan (2025):

• Basic free tier available for short transcriptions
• Paid plans start at $10/month for extended usage

TurboScribe is suitable for users with challenging audio conditions, like field recordings or noisy locations.

Website: https://turboscribe.ai

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