ComparisonJanuary 5, 20257 min read

WhisKey vs Superwhisper: Which Privacy-First Dictation App is Better?

Compare WhisKey and Superwhisper for Mac and iOS. WhisKey offers similar privacy features at 8x lower cost with system-wide keyboard support.

WhisKey vs Superwhisper: Which Privacy-First Dictation App is Better?

Searching for a Superwhisper alternative? Both WhisKey and Superwhisper use OpenAI's Whisper technology for on-device transcription, but they differ significantly in pricing, platform support, and features.

WhisKey costs 8x less per month ($0.99 vs $8.49) and includes unique features like a system-wide keyboard extension and Dynamic Island support that Superwhisper lacks.

Quick Comparison

FeatureWhisKeySuperwhisper
Monthly PriceFree / $0.99 Pro$8.49/month
Lifetime OptionN/A (subscription)$249.99
On-Device Processing
Cloud Option
iOS Support
iPadOS Support
macOS Support
Keyboard Extension
Dynamic Island
Translation ModePro
Custom Prompts
Free TierFull featuresLimited

Both Use Whisper AI

WhisKey and Superwhisper are both built on OpenAI's open-source Whisper speech recognition model. This means both apps offer:

  • On-device processing — Your voice stays on your device
  • Offline capability — No internet required for transcription
  • Multiple model sizes — Balance speed vs. accuracy
  • Multi-language support — Works with many languages

The core transcription quality is comparable since both use the same underlying AI technology.

Pricing Comparison

PlanWhisKeySuperwhisper
Free TierFull featuresLimited
Monthly$0.99$8.49
Yearly$11.88$84.99
LifetimeN/A$249.99

Cost over 2 years: WhisKey Pro = $23.76, Superwhisper monthly = $203.76. That's a savings of $180!

WhisKey's Advantages

System-Wide Keyboard

WhisKey's custom keyboard extension lets you dictate in any app without switching. Superwhisper requires you to use their app interface and paste text.

Full iPad Support

WhisKey is fully optimized for iPadOS with native keyboard extension support. Superwhisper focuses primarily on Mac and iPhone.

Dynamic Island Integration

On iPhone 14 Pro+, WhisKey shows live recording status in the Dynamic Island. Superwhisper doesn't offer this modern iOS integration.

Generous Free Tier

WhisKey's free tier includes full transcription with Base models, keyboard extension, and Dynamic Island. Many users never need to upgrade.

Superwhisper's Advantages

Custom Prompts & Modes

Superwhisper offers advanced customization with context-aware modes for different tasks like coding, writing, or casual conversation.

Cloud Processing Option

For users who prefer cloud accuracy, Superwhisper offers optional cloud-based transcription in addition to local processing.

Lifetime License

If you prefer a one-time purchase, Superwhisper's $249.99 lifetime option might appeal to long-term users (though that's 21 years of WhisKey Pro).

The Verdict

Choose WhisKey if: You want the best value (8x cheaper!), need a system-wide keyboard extension, use iPad regularly, or want modern iOS features like Dynamic Island.

Choose Superwhisper if: You need advanced prompt customization, want cloud processing as a backup, or prefer a lifetime purchase option.

For value-conscious users who want privacy-first dictation with modern iOS integration, WhisKey is the clear winner.

Ready to Try WhisKey?

Experience privacy-first voice dictation with our generous free tier. Upgrade to Pro for just $0.99/month for unlimited features.

100% On-Device
2-3 Second Latency
Free to Start
Download on App Store