After testing dozens of speech-to-text tools across different workflows, I've seen how the gap between free web tools and professional solutions continues to widen. SpeechTexter represents the older generation of browser-based dictation. Newer AI-powered voice to text tools focus on personalization, real-time speed, and workflows that scale beyond solo use. If you're deciding whether to stick with free options or invest in something more powerful, the differences go far beyond just price. Let's break down SpeechTexter's real-world performance, core limitations, and how it stacks up against the leading alternatives in 2025.

TLDR:

• SpeechTexter offers free web-based dictation but has 95% accuracy with editing required

• Major issues include internet dependency, accent problems, and copy-paste workflows

• Willow provides 3x+ better accuracy and becomes more accurate the longer you use it through personalization

• Professional run at ~200ms latency, keeping text in sync with speech instead of lagging behind

• Free trials let you test accuracy differences before committing to paid solutions