VoxKey
When to choose VoxKey
Choose VoxKey if you want a native Mac dictation utility that does not keep a transcript archive. Safety Net retains a result for recovery when delivery cannot be confirmed; confirmed delivery clears it.
TWO OPEN-SOURCE APPS
VoxKey vs
OpenWhispr
Free local dictation on both sides, with a real choice about history and platforms.
· VoxKey 0.6.0
When to choose OpenWhispr
Choose OpenWhispr if you want free, open-source local dictation on Mac, Windows, or Linux, with optional cloud providers and a wider set of meeting and agent features.
The practical differences
| What matters | VoxKey | OpenWhispr |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free; MIT-licensed app source. Model terms are separate. | Unlimited local dictation free; paid plans add cloud and other features. |
| Processing | Local only after model downloads; update checks use the internet. | Local by default; own API keys or managed cloud optional. |
| Platforms | Apple Silicon Mac, macOS 26 or later. | Mac, Windows, Linux; iOS companion offered with Pro. |
| Workflow | Dictation into text fields, vocabulary hints, Safety Net recovery. | Local transcript history; meeting and agent features. |
OpenWhispr defaults to local processing and audio retention is off by default. Its policy says transcribed text is stored in a local database. VoxKey’s distinction is no dictation history, not exclusive access to private or free transcription. Sources & scope ↓
VoxKey is for dictation into text fields. What VoxKey doesn’t do.
Sources & scope
I wrote this comparison from vendor documentation and VoxKey 0.6.0. How I compare.
Official sources checked:
Try VoxKey on your Mac
Free, open source, and local after model setup. Apple Silicon · macOS 26+