STT Provider Comparison
Compare supported STT routes by credentials, data sent, configuration, and the checks to make before selecting one.
Provider Overview
Trace the route before comparing output
| Provider | Route | Credentials | Data sent | Verify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deepgram | Hosted STT | Provider API key | Recorded audio | Current provider policy and account settings |
| Whisper (OpenAI) | Hosted STT | Provider API key | Recorded audio | Current provider model and data policy |
| Groq Whisper | Hosted STT | Provider API key | Recorded audio | Current provider model and data policy |
| AssemblyAI | Hosted STT | Provider API key | Recorded audio | Current provider capabilities and data policy |
| Custom Whisper-compatible | Configured HTTP STT endpoint | Optional endpoint API key | Audio to the configured base URL | Endpoint host, network path, model, and operator |
| Apple Speech | Platform-specific STT on macOS | macOS Speech permission | Audio handled according to current macOS behavior | Language availability, permission, OS settings, and device behavior |
Detailed Breakdown
When to consider each route and what to verify
Deepgram
Hosted STTWhen you want a configured Deepgram account to handle transcription.
Verify before selecting
- • Confirm the selected account
- • Review retention and region settings
- • Test representative audio
Whisper (OpenAI)
Hosted STTWhen the configured OpenAI Whisper route fits your language and workflow tests.
Verify before selecting
- • Confirm the model in current docs
- • Review retention settings
- • Test your language and vocabulary
Groq Whisper
Hosted STTWhen the configured Groq Whisper route performs well on your own sample audio.
Verify before selecting
- • Confirm the current model
- • Review provider terms
- • Test end-to-end output
AssemblyAI
Hosted STTWhen your AssemblyAI account and tested workflow meet your requirements.
Verify before selecting
- • Review current capabilities
- • Review retention settings
- • Test representative audio
Custom Whisper-compatible
Configured HTTP STT endpointWhen you operate or trust a compatible local or self-hosted STT service.
Verify before selecting
- • Confirm the base URL host
- • Confirm the model
- • Test the actual network route
Apple Speech
Platform-specific STT on macOSWhen Apple Speech is available and verified on the target Mac.
Verify before selecting
- • Confirm recognizer availability
- • Review macOS settings
- • Test on the target device
FAQ
How should I compare STT providers?
Compare credentials, the audio route, provider policy, and output from representative non-sensitive recordings.
What is the local or self-hosted STT path?
Configure a Custom Whisper-compatible endpoint, then verify the base URL host and network route.
How should I compare provider costs?
Check each provider's current billing terms for the account, model, and region you intend to use.
Can I switch providers for different use cases?
Yes. Change the STT provider in settings, then test the new route before using sensitive or important material.
Test the Route That Fits Your Workflow
Download OpenTypeless, inspect the provider settings, and test with non-sensitive audio before deciding.
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