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Converting audio files to text is a great method to create subtitles for videos or convert voice notes into searchable, text-based information. Fortunately, there are ample ways to automate the process, so you no longer need to manually listen to audio and type text.

Let's go over how to convert audio files to text using web applications or native features on your Windows and Mac devices.

How to Convert Audio to Text on the Web

The most convenient method to convert audio to text is using a web application. These innovative web apps offer more accuracy than using the native Windows or Mac features.

Additionally, since they're cloud-based, you don't need to install anything. This makes it easier to convert audio files even if they are on your mobile device; you can use your phone's browser to access the web app.

Many of these web apps also offer a free plan. This is particularly helpful for someone who doesn't need to frequently convert audio files to text. Here are the three best free web apps to convert audio to text.

1. TinyWow

TinyWow is a versatile web service for free audio-to-text conversion. It also offers additional tools such as PDF conversion and image file format conversion. There's no need to sign up to use TinyWow—you can start converting audio files right away.

When you go to TinyWow's audio-to-text conversion tool, you can directly jump into the conversion process like so:

2. Converter App

Converter App is a free audio-to-text conversion tool with a simple, no-fuss interface. However, Converter App is ad-supported, so you'll see quite a few of them on the conversion page. If you find ads annoying, consider using an ad blocker or another conversion tool.

The app supports all the popular audio formats, including MP3, WAV, AAC, and WMA. Converter App also has a feature that makes it possible to differentiate between speakers in the audio. This web app can't convert the audio from a video to text. If that's something you need, check out the next option.

The process to convert audio files into text using Converter App is pretty simple:

3. Flixier

Flixier is an advanced transcription web application. It offers a powerful set of tools that are excellent for someone who wants accurate transcriptions, often from source files in various formats, including M4A and WAV.

Flixier is actually a cloud-based video editor with a transcription feature. So, if you're converting audio to text to add subtitles, you can use Flixier for the entire process. The app can perform a variety of functions, including converting audio or video to text to exporting the video with hardcoded subtitles.

Here's how to convert audio files to text using Flixier:

If you're converting audio to text for business, you might want to consider using a more professional, paid audio-to-text conversion tool like Rev.

How to Convert Audio to Text on Windows

Windows' voice typing feature doubles as a speech-to-text and an audio to text converter. Nevertheless, there are pros and cons of using any dictation tool. Such tools can only receive input from a microphone and can't work with audio files to transcribe them.

A workaround is to play the audio into the microphone. This works flawlessly if the audio is clear. However, if the audio is fast-paced or unclear, you might encounter some difficulties.

Similar to web applications, you don't need to install any third-party tools or fill up a lengthy sign-up form to start converting audio to text on Windows. To convert audio to text using the Dictation tool on Windows 11:

Click on the mic button and play your audio.

The Dictation tool will add text into the text editor as your audio plays. If this workaround doesn't float your boat, consider using the built-in transcription tool in Microsoft Word.

How to Convert Audio to Text on macOS

Just like Windows, macOS has a native dictation tool that can help convert audio to text. It works the same way: You launch the dictation tool in a text editor and play your audio into the mic.

Mac's dictation tool is vulnerable to the same issues as the Windows dictation tool. Excessive background noise, poor quality mic, and audio clarity greatly impact the transcription's accuracy.

Here's how to use the dictation tool on a Mac:

Scroll down to the Dictation section and enable the option to Use dictation wherever you can type text.

Launch a text editor and press Fn twice.

You can change the shortcut for the dictation tool on the same settings page.

Effortlessly Convert Audio to Text in Minutes

Converting audio to text has never been easier, thanks to the variety of tools and methods available. This process is essential for meeting accessibility requirements, enhancing viewer experiences, and making audio content searchable.

Whether you choose a web application or utilize the native features on Windows or Mac, you now have the knowledge and tools to convert audio to text efficiently.

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