Recorded a meeting or a lecture and now want it in writing? There are three main ways to do it.
Option 1. Your phone's built-in recorder app
Some phone voice recorder apps can transcribe recordings. Whether yours can depends on the phone model and OS version, so check the app's menu. This feature may send audio through the provider's servers.
Option 2. Cloud transcription services
Many companies offer transcription services. Accuracy, pricing and terms vary from service to service. Most require an account and upload your recording to their servers, so for sensitive material, read the terms of service and privacy policy first.
Option 3. Transcribe on your own computer
Our Audio to Text Converter downloads the AI model (OpenAI Whisper) into your browser and does all the work on your device. Your file never leaves your computer. The trade-off: the model is large, so on a PC transcription can take about as long as the audio itself, or a few times longer.
Tips for a better transcript
- Record somewhere quiet, with the mic close to the speaker.
- Speak one at a time and clearly. Overlapping voices cause mistakes.
- If the recording is noisy, run it through the Voice Noise Remover first.
- Pick the larger model (small). In our tests the smallest model (tiny) got 3 of 4 read-aloud Korean samples badly wrong.
- Treat the result as a draft. Listen back in the editor and fix it.
Recording laws differ by country and, in the US, by state: some places only require one participant's consent, while others require everyone's. The simple rule is to tell everyone you are recording and get their OK before you start.
Sources and date checked
Checked: October 3, 2026
- OpenAI Whisper — https://github.com/openai/whisper
- FreeSoundTools test log (4 read-aloud Korean samples, 2026-10-03)
This article is general information. Devices and services can change over time.
Next step: see the meeting & lecture recording workflow for the whole process from recording to notes.
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
Yes. The audio-to-text tool has no sign-up and no usage limit, and it runs in your browser.
Does my recording get uploaded?
No. The AI model is downloaded to your browser and the recording is processed on your device.
Which model should I choose?
On a PC, choose the larger model (small). Smaller models are faster but make many more mistakes.
Can I use the transcript as-is?
Treat it as a draft. Names, numbers and technical terms in particular should be checked against the recording.