WhisKey vs VoiceInk: iOS Support and Cross-Platform Comparison
VoiceInk is macOS-only while WhisKey supports iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Compare features, pricing, and which app suits your workflow.
Looking for a VoiceInk alternative with iOS support? VoiceInk is an excellent open-source dictation app for Mac, but it's macOS-only. If you use an iPhone or iPad, you'll need a different solution.
WhisKey offers similar privacy-first, on-device transcription but works across iPhone, iPad, and Mac with a unified experience and system-wide keyboard.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | WhisKey | VoiceInk |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free / $0.99 Pro | $25 one-time |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | One-time purchase |
| On-Device Processing | ||
| Open Source | ||
| iOS Support | ||
| iPadOS Support | ||
| macOS Support | ||
| Keyboard Extension | ||
| Dynamic Island | ||
| Translation Mode | Pro | |
| AI Summaries | Pro | |
| Free Tier | Full features | N/A |
The Platform Difference
The biggest difference between WhisKey and VoiceInk is platform support:
WhisKey Platforms
- ✓ iPhone — Full app + keyboard extension
- ✓ iPad — Optimized for large screen
- ✓ Mac — Native macOS app
- ✓ Dynamic Island — Live Activities support
VoiceInk Platforms
- ✓ macOS — Native Mac app
- ✗ iPhone — Not available
- ✗ iPad — Not available
- ✗ Mobile — No mobile support
If you work across multiple Apple devices, WhisKey provides a consistent experience everywhere.
Pricing Models
VoiceInk and WhisKey use different pricing approaches:
| Aspect | WhisKey | VoiceInk |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $0 (Free tier) | $25 |
| Pro Features | $0.99/month | Included |
| 2-Year Total (Pro) | $23.76 | $25 |
| Updates | Included with subscription | Included forever |
Key insight: WhisKey's free tier provides full transcription. VoiceInk requires the $25 purchase upfront. Over 2+ years, VoiceInk's one-time payment becomes better value, but WhisKey lets you start for free.
What VoiceInk Does Well
Open Source
VoiceInk is open-source, meaning you can inspect the code, contribute improvements, or modify it for your needs. WhisKey is closed-source.
One-Time Purchase
Pay $25 once and own VoiceInk forever. No subscription means no ongoing cost, which appeals to users who dislike recurring payments.
Mac-Focused Features
VoiceInk is deeply integrated with macOS workflows like Cursor, Obsidian, and other developer/writer tools popular on Mac.
What WhisKey Does Better
Mobile Support
WhisKey works on iPhone and iPad with a native experience and keyboard extension. Dictate on the go, not just at your Mac.
System-Wide Keyboard
WhisKey's keyboard extension works in any iOS/iPadOS app without copy-pasting. Start dictating directly in Messages, Notes, or any app.
Translation Mode
WhisKey Pro includes real-time translation while transcribing — speak in one language and get text in another. VoiceInk doesn't offer translation.
AI Summaries
WhisKey Pro can generate AI summaries and mind notes from your transcriptions. VoiceInk is purely transcription-focused.
The Verdict
Choose WhisKey if: You use iPhone or iPad, want a free tier to start, need system-wide keyboard dictation, or want translation/AI summary features.
Choose VoiceInk if: You only use Mac, prefer open-source software, want a one-time purchase with no subscription, or need deep macOS app integrations.
For Apple ecosystem users who work across devices, WhisKey provides the most complete cross-platform experience.
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.