TranscribeFlow vs Willow
Comparing two voice-to-text solutions — basic transcription vs AI-powered dictation with polish.
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
Willow
AlternativeWillow is a voice-to-text application that provides speech recognition capabilities for Mac users. It focuses on accurate transcription with a clean interface.
STRENGTHS
LIMITATIONS
Subscription or one-time
Recurring fees
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
A detailed look at how TranscribeFlow stacks up against Willow across key features.
| Feature | TranscribeFlow | Willow |
|---|---|---|
Pricing Model TranscribeFlow: predictable one-time cost | One-time $29 + free APIs | Varies |
Real-time Transcription | ||
AI Grammar Correction Automatic grammar and punctuation fixes | ||
Filler Word Removal Removes 'um', 'uh', 'like' | ||
Custom Presets Create presets for any context | ||
Custom Vocabulary Add names, terms, jargon | ||
BYOK (Free API Keys) Use generous free tiers | ||
Universal App Support | ||
Global Hotkeys | ||
Dark Mode | ||
AI-Powered Rewriting | ||
Professional Email Mode | ||
Summarization | ||
Native macOS App |
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
Willow provides basic voice-to-text functionality with reliable transcription. TranscribeFlow extends this with comprehensive AI features including grammar correction, custom presets, vocabulary management, and intelligent rewriting. For users who want their speech transformed into polished, professional text, TranscribeFlow is the clear winner — with predictable one-time pricing and free API tiers.
Choose TranscribeFlow if you want AI-enhanced dictation with grammar correction, custom presets, and professional formatting. Choose Willow only if you need basic, straightforward voice-to-text without advanced features.
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 Willow 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.