Here’s a fact that might surprise you: The average person types 40 words per minute but speaks at 150 words per minute. That’s nearly 4x faster! Even if you’re a speed typist hitting 80 WPM, you’re still only matching half your natural speaking speed.

So why are we still typing everything?

I’ve started dictating my emails and messages using AI software, and while it feels a bit ridiculous – like Louis Litt from Suits with his dictaphone – it actually works. My writing is 3x faster, sounds more natural, and I can “write” while walking around or making coffee.

The New Wave of AI Dictation

If you’re like me, you tried dictation software years ago and wrote it off as difficult, clunky, and often inaccurate.

But new tools powered by OpenAI’s Whisper model are transforming how we can write:

• Near-perfect accuracy
• Automatic punctuation
• Natural language processing
• Runs privately on your computer
• Works anywhere you can type (just enter a hotkey and start talking)

My Personal Experience

I’ve been using BetterDictation for the past few months, and it’s had real benefits:

• Writing emails and replying on Slack takes 30-50% of the time
• Ideas come more freely (I’m one of those annoying people that thinks better when talking)
• My writing has a more conversational tone
• I can “write” while walking around (another annoying trait – I’m a pacer!)

Top Tools to Try

BetterDictation (Mac, Windows coming soon)

• Clean, minimal interface
• Excellent accuracy
• Works anywhere you can type
• Local processing for privacy

SuperWhisper (Mac & iPhone)

• Synchronised iPhone app
• Fast processing
• Great for longer dictation

SpeechPulse (Windows & Mac)

• Cross-platform support
• Multi-language support
• More advanced configuration and features

All three options offer strong privacy features, which brings me to an important point.

The Privacy Advantage

Unlike cloud-based dictation services, these new tools can run entirely on your computer using local AI models. This means:

• Your voice never leaves your device
• Works without internet connection
• No subscription fees (a refreshing change!)
• Better privacy protection

Getting Started

Let’s be honest: talking to your computer feels weird. I suggest starting with emails and Slack/Teams messages and trying it when you’re alone. Perfect for working from home!

Here are some other tips:

• Draft First: Dictation is perfect for getting first drafts done quickly
• Edit Later: Do a quick review to catch any minor errors
• Keep Flow: Don’t stop for small mistakes – fix them during editing
• Find Quiet: Background noise can affect accuracy

The Bottom Line

If you can get over feeling like a TV lawyer talking into a dictaphone, AI dictation tools are a genuine productivity game-changer. The speed gains are substantial, and with local processing, you can safely dictate even your most confidential content.

Have you tried dictation software? Or does the idea of talking to your computer make you cringe? Reply to share your thoughts!

Until next time!