Free, open-source Mac dictation · premium optional
Plainsay vs Apple Dictation
You may already have enough dictation software on your Mac. Apple’s built-in Dictation is a useful starting point. Plainsay adds a separate, free, open-source app with explicit model choices, vocabulary, history, and optional editing.
Reviewed September 5, 2026 · Published by the Plainsay team
Try Plainsay free ↓Try the built-in option. Add more control if you need it.
| What matters | Plainsay | Apple Dictation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free Local mode. Premium features are optional. | Included with macOS. Source |
| Setup | Install Plainsay, grant permissions, and download a local speech model. | Enable Dictation in System Settings → Keyboard. Source |
| Processing | Choose Local for on-device speech; hosted services are optional. | Keyboard settings indicate on-device or server processing. Source |
| Model choice | Choose Whisper or Parakeet in the app. | Configured through macOS Dictation settings. Source |
Prices are the listed currencies, not currency-converted equivalents. Offers and taxes can vary; check the vendor’s checkout. Plainsay facts describe the released Mac app, not unreleased work.
When Apple Dictation is enough
If you occasionally dictate a short message, first try the feature already on your Mac. Apple documents how to enable it, choose its shortcut, and dictate into text fields. That may be all you need. Apple’s Dictation guide
When Plainsay makes sense
Plainsay is useful when you want to choose your speech model and keep dictation-specific vocabulary and History in one app. You can hold a key to speak or use tap-to-toggle recording. Start with free Local mode; add Polishing or a hosted service only when it helps your workflow.
Check processing settings in either app
Apple says Keyboard settings show whether Dictation runs on-device or sends audio and transcripts to its servers. Apple’s privacy notice In Plainsay, Local speech stays on your Mac. To keep transcript editing local as well, turn Polishing off or use a compatible local endpoint.
Questions before switching
Is Apple Dictation free?
Yes. It is a feature of macOS. Plainsay Local is also free, but requires installing the app and a speech model.
Do I need to replace Apple Dictation?
No. Try Plainsay in the text fields you use most and choose the workflow you prefer. Configure different shortcuts if you keep both enabled.
Try it with your own words
Download Plainsay for an Apple silicon Mac running macOS 14 or later. Choose Local during setup, download a speech model, and dictate a few sentences in your normal apps. Review names, punctuation, and insertion behavior. No payment card or Cloud subscription is needed.
This is a comparison of documented features, not a controlled accuracy or speed benchmark. The recommendations are our editorial assessment. We do not claim Plainsay wins every workload.
Sources and review date
Official pages checked on September 5, 2026. Features and plans can change.
Compare other dictation apps
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- Plainsay vs SuperwhisperA focused free app, or more configurable modes?
- Plainsay vs VoiceInkTwo open-source approaches to Mac dictation.
- Plainsay vs MacWhisperChoose by the work in front of you.